Lexus has introduced its most capable off-road vehicle, the LX570, but have managed to salvage the luxury that Lexus is known for. Like Kevin Flynn, General Manager of Lexus SA, says, “The LX incorporates virtually everything you could want from an SUV including space, versatility, luxury and off-road ability.”
The LX570 adopts the brand’s characteristic L-finesse design theme. A wide stance and large proportions are accentuated with subtle character lines and chrome-plated door handles and mouldings. The wide grille and bumper flanked by large projector headlights, along with pronounced wheelarches add an element of ruggedness to the elegant profile while wide rear combination lights emphasize the large size of the sculpted rear door.
Lexus has not skimped on its renowned specification for the LX570, including a 19-speaker Mark Levinson audio system with six-disc DVD changer, satellite navigation and a rear entertainment system. It also features Smart Access Keyless entry system with push-button start, a rear view image displays on the navigation screen when the vehicle is in reverse, and the climate control system features an air filter to remove allergens and dust as well as a smog filter which recirculates the interior cabin air when the exterior levels of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons reach a pre-set threshold.
Being the most powerful model in the Lexus SUV lineup, the LX is powered by a 5,7-litre V8 engine mated with a six-speed sequential-shift automatic transmission. It delivers 270 kW at 5 600 r/min and peak torque of 530 N.m at 3 600 r/min. Crucial to LX customers who tow with their vehicles, 90 percent of peak torque is available at just 2 200 r/min.
Among the driver aids featured on this model are Crawl Control, which allows the driver to manoeuvre rough terrain at low speeds without the need for throttle or brake application. It also features Hill-start Assist Control, providing additional control for off-road driving. Four-wheel Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) employs both brake and throttle intervention to help control wheel spin.
Safety comes in the form of a three-stage crush structure to help reduce frame damage to other areas of the vehicle in a frontal impact. It comes standard with 10 airbags, including driver- and front-passenger knee airbags, front and second-row seat-mounted side airbags and side curtain airbags for all three rows.
As with the rest of the Lexus range, the LX570 is covered by a four year/100 000km warranty and maintenance plan and sells for R1 085 000.
Lexus’ flagship saloon model has been treated to a facelift whilst including additional luxury and safety features. The LS460 still houses the 4,6-litre V8 engine but now sports a new 8-speed automatic transmission. The LS range will also be extended this year with the introduction of the LS600H L. But for now, the LS460 will cost you R1 105 500.
The GS300 also sports a new look for 2010, including a new front grille and revised alloy wheels. The only hybrid in the lineup, the GS450h, also sports a new grille and features clear lens rear lamps. Flynn says, “The addition of the GS300 EX to the range complements this minor facelift and fills a widening gap between the S and SE.”
Pricing:
GS300 S – R560 800
GS300 EX – R588 300
GS300 SE – R625 400
GS450h SE – R744 100