2003 Lexus LX 470: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Standard side airbags, a new transmission, and a newly available night-vision system highlight 2003 for Lexus's senior SUV. LX 470 is basically a Toyota Land Cruiser with Lexus design cues and additional standard features. Both use the same V8--now with 5 extra hp--and, for 2003, a 5-speed automatic transmission instead of a 4 speed. Also shared are standard antiskid/traction control, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, all-wheel drive with low-range gearing, and 3-row, 8-passenger seating. Exclusive to LX is Adaptive Variable Suspension with driver-adjustable shock-absorbers and ride height. Newly available for Land Cruiser but standard for LX are front torso and head-protecting 1st- and 2nd-row curtain side airbags. The Lexus also gets standard rain-sensing wipers, steering-wheel audio controls, separate rear audio controls, and its first rear-seat DVD entertainment option. The standard navigation system can also play DVD movies on its dashboard screen with the transmission in Park, and now includes voice control. Other changes for 2003 include standard 18-inch wheels, replacing 16s; revised front and rear styling; new instrument faces; and two new options. One is Lexus Link, basically GM's OnStar service with a separate Lexus-only staff of online operators. The other is Lexus's new Night View system, which uses light sensors and a special nighttime camera to project a black-and-white image on the windshield ahead of the driver. LX 470 performance and accommodations are similar to those of Land Cruiser.

COMPETITION

Luxury SUVs vary in size and type, including former members of both the Full-size and Midsize SUV classes, along with a few all-new models. All offer higher standards of workmanship, comfort, refinement, and pricing than other SUVs.

Our Best Buys are Acura MDX and Toyota Land Cruiser. Both are extremely capable on-road and offer roomy interiors that feature quality workmanship and materials. MDX gets slightly better fuel economy and is more reasonably priced. Land Cruiser offers a V8 engine, rugged body-on-frame chassis, and true off-road ability.

Though rugged and trucky, the Recommended Mercedes-Benz M-Class is spacious, offers a variety of model and engine choices, and numerous safety features. If you don't venture too far off-road, take a look at the car-based Lexus RX 300. Recommended based on price, refinement, and luxury appointments.