The Lexus LX 570, specifically the facelifted model produced from January 2012 to August 2015, represents the third generation of Lexus’s full-size luxury SUV. Built upon the Toyota Land Cruiser platform (J80 series), the LX 570 aimed to deliver uncompromising off-road capability combined with Lexus’s renowned luxury and refinement. This variant, equipped with the 5.7-liter V8 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, occupied the top echelon of the LX lineup, offering the highest level of performance and features. It was primarily marketed towards buyers seeking a spacious, powerful, and capable SUV for both on-road comfort and off-road adventures.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | LX |
| Generation | LX III (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 570 V8 (383 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | January, 2012 |
| End of production | August, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 17 l/100 km (13.8 US mpg, 16.6 UK mpg, 5.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.6 l/100 km (20.3 US mpg, 24.4 UK mpg, 8.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 14.5 l/100 km (16.2 US mpg, 19.5 UK mpg, 6.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 142.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 203.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 383 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 546 Nm @ 3600 rpm (402.71 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 3UR-FE |
| Engine displacement | 5663 cm3 (345.58 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 102 mm (4.02 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 16.2 l (17.12 US qt | 14.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2680 kg (5908.39 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 439 l (15.5 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2353 l (83.1 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 93 l (24.57 US gal | 20.46 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3175 kg (6999.68 lbs.) |
| Length | 5005 mm (197.05 in.) |
| Width | 1970 mm (77.56 in.) |
| Height | 1920 mm (75.59 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 225 mm (8.86 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.9 m (42.32 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 25° |
| Departure angle | 20° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 340 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 345 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 285/50 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2012-2015 facelift of the Lexus LX 570 brought subtle styling updates and continued the model’s reputation for luxurious appointments and robust performance. Positioned as the flagship SUV in the Lexus lineup, the LX 570 catered to a niche market desiring a vehicle capable of tackling challenging terrain while providing a comfortable and refined interior experience. The 5.7-liter V8 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission was the sole powertrain offering during this production cycle, emphasizing power and towing capacity over fuel efficiency. The LX 570 shared its underpinnings with the Toyota Land Cruiser, benefiting from the Land Cruiser’s legendary durability and off-road prowess.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the LX 570 is the 3UR-FE 5.7-liter V8 engine. This naturally aspirated engine utilizes a cast-iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, incorporating dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder. The engine employs multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The 3UR-FE is known for its smooth power delivery and relatively simple design, contributing to its reliability. The six-speed automatic transmission, a Toyota/Aisin unit, is designed for durability and provides smooth shifts. While not the most technologically advanced transmission available at the time (many competitors were moving to 8 or 9-speed automatics), it was well-matched to the engine’s torque characteristics. The transmission features a traditional torque converter and offers manual shift control.
Driving Characteristics
The LX 570’s 5.7-liter V8 delivers substantial power, enabling brisk acceleration despite the vehicle’s considerable weight. The automatic transmission is tuned for comfort and smooth operation, prioritizing relaxed cruising over sporty responsiveness. While the LX 570 is capable of towing over 7,000 pounds, the automatic transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for highway driving and towing, rather than maximizing fuel economy. Compared to potential lower-trim Land Cruisers or hypothetical LX trims with smaller engines, the 570 offers significantly more power and torque, but at the expense of fuel efficiency. The LX 570’s substantial weight and body-on-frame construction contribute to a more truck-like ride quality compared to more modern, unibody SUVs.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The LX 570 came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features, including leather upholstery, wood trim, a premium audio system, navigation, and a rear-seat entertainment system. Standard safety features included a suite of airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability control, and traction control. Optional extras included Mark Levinson premium sound system, adaptive variable suspension, and a pre-collision system. The interior was designed for comfort and spaciousness, offering seating for up to eight passengers. The LX 570’s interior appointments were a key selling point, differentiating it from more utilitarian off-road vehicles.
Chassis & Braking
The LX 570 utilizes a robust body-on-frame construction, providing exceptional durability and off-road capability. The suspension consists of double wishbones at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear. The suspension is tuned for a balance of comfort and off-road performance. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The LX 570’s braking system is adequate for its weight, but not particularly sporty. The vehicle’s substantial weight necessitates a robust braking system to ensure safe stopping distances.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lexus LX 570 was generally well-received by critics, who praised its luxurious interior, powerful engine, and off-road capability. However, it was often criticized for its poor fuel economy and relatively high price. Compared to other luxury SUVs like the Cadillac Escalade or Lincoln Navigator, the LX 570 offered superior off-road performance and a more refined driving experience, but at a higher cost. The LX 570’s fuel economy was significantly worse than most of its competitors, a major drawback for many buyers. Reliability was generally considered to be excellent, benefiting from Toyota’s reputation for building durable vehicles.
Legacy
The 2012-2015 Lexus LX 570 remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market, particularly among buyers seeking a luxurious and capable SUV with proven reliability. The 3UR-FE engine and Aisin transmission are known for their longevity, and with proper maintenance, these powertrains can provide many years of service. While fuel economy remains a concern, the LX 570’s combination of luxury, capability, and durability continues to appeal to a dedicated following. The LX 570 represents a unique blend of luxury and off-road prowess, setting it apart from many other SUVs in its class.
