Overview & Reviews
Domestic manufacturers get much of the credit -- and blame -- for creating the large luxury SUV class. Yet Lexus was actually the first automaker to enter this market when it introduced the LX series for the 1996 model year. The Lexus LX 470 represented the second generation of this elite line of SUVs.
Like most full-size SUVs, the LX 470 used traditional body-on-frame construction, but it has been tuned to provide a serene and forgiving ride. Unlike many competitors, though, the LX retained substantial off-road capabilities and could take on seriously gnarly trails for those who cared to use it that way.
Most owners did not, of course, but the Lexus LX 470 was an easy vehicle to like, even in the confines of suburbia. There could be no denying the quality of the materials used to construct the interior, for example -- the leather upholstery was almost inconceivably supple, and the wood inlays were some of the richest to be found at any price point. A standard third-row seat allowed the LX 470 to accommodate up to eight passengers, and indeed it has been a common sight in carpool circles at exclusive private academies.
Our only real complaint about the Lexus LX 470 was always its high price. Unless buyers were planning to make use of its all-terrain talents, there was simply no reason to spend this much money -- even on a luxury SUV. As a used vehicle choice, however, the LX makes a lot more sense. Depreciation puts pricing more in line with reality, while reliability is nothing short of exceptional.
Most Recent Lexus LX 470
Sold from 1998-2007, the LX 470 was one of the longest-running vehicles in the Lexus fleet. The LX 470 was mechanically identical to the Toyota Land Cruiser, and differences between the two came down to luxury accoutrements ? namely, the Lexus had more of them. In standard spec, the LX came fully loaded, including amenities like DVD navigation, a rear back-up camera and a premium-grade Mark Levinson sound system. Among the options were a Night View infrared imaging system and a rear-seat DVD player.
Motivation for the Lexus LX 470 came from a refined 4.7-liter V8. A four- or five-speed automatic transmission sent power to all four wheels through a permanent four-wheel-drive system. A lever on the center console allowed the driver to switch to low-range gearing for maximum traction in heavy snow or dirt, while a separate button locked the center differential into a 50/50 power split between the front and rear axles. An adaptive suspension provided both driver-selectable height control and variable shock absorber damping.
The LX 470 was not especially quick for an SUV in this price range, though the engine's supremely smooth delivery somewhat offset this lack of vigor. The LX had an easygoing demeanor on pavement; however, it felt floppy around corners, even with the adaptive suspension in its "Sport" setting.
Inside, seating was plush and comfortable in the first and second rows, but the third-row seats were smaller than the rearmost accommodations in other large luxury SUVs. To make matters worse, the 50/50 sections didn't fold flat when extra cargo space was needed. Cargo capacity in general was also on the low side at 90 cubic feet, though the clamshell-style tailgate provided good access to stowed items.
The Lexus LX 470 received a handful of equipment changes after its 1998 debut. If you're shopping for a used one, the best years to look at are 2003 and up. During the '03 model year, the LX switched from a four-speed automatic transmission to the five-speed, while picking up front-seat side airbags and first- and second-row side curtain airbags. The Night Vision system was added to the options list that year.
The other major update came in 2006 when Lexus equipped the 4.7-liter V8 with variable valve timing, increasing output to 275 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. Previously, the V8 generated 235 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque (230 hp from 1998-2002). Revised SAE certification standards saw the V8's peak horsepower drop back to 268 for the '07 model year.
The excellent Mark Levinson sound system also became standard equipment in 2006; it was offered as an option from 2001-'05. Prior to '01, Lexus offered a well-regarded Nakamichi sound system as the premium-grade audio option. If you want a factory-installed navigation system, you'll need to look at 2001 and later models. The nav system was optional in 2001 and standard thereafter. The rear camera system and Bluetooth compatibility became standard fare in 2004.
Past Lexus LX 470 Models
If you're looking at higher-mileage vehicles, you may come across the first-generation LX, known as the LX 450. It was basically the same size and shape as the LX 470, but drew power from a tepid 4.5-liter inline-6 rather than a V8 and was based on the previous-generation Toyota Land Cruiser. High mileage should not necessarily be a deterrent.
User Reviews:
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X Land Cruiser Owner - 2003 Lexus LX 470
By SteveT - February 13 - 2:00 amAs an avid Land Cruiser fan (7 yrs/2 vehicles) it was difficult to put out another $10K for the same vehicle but after a test drive and closer evaluation of the added features it was a no brainer (these are listed below in my perceived order of value). After 2 months Im more convinced I made the right decision. The ability to lower the vehicle has eliminated my wife hopping in and out and has proved to be quite useful in parking. Not only is there practically non existent road noise there is also the absence of traffic fumes thanks to the air quality sensor tied to external/internal air flow control. I strongly recommend this vehicle to anyone.
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We Love Linda - 1999 Lexus LX 470
By Nina Sands - February 2 - 10:00 amMy girls named her "Linda" because she deserves a nice name. Minivans are not "us" and we are always on the go between work, swim team and soccer. We love the comfort, the ride and the looks. Shes the perfect solution for us.
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Lexus LX 470 - 1999 Lexus LX 470
By Paul - January 27 - 8:16 amWe love our LX 470, I especially liked the way it did in the mountains. It is easily the smoothest riding vehicle in its class that I have ever driven. People are always asking if it is a new vehicle. I tell them it has high miles and a 1999 and they find it hard to believe.
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Love My LEXIE - 2003 Lexus LX 470
By Caroline913 - January 21 - 2:00 amGreat SUV, fun to drive and I feel very safe on the highway. I love all the toys and the interior is so classy. Ive owned other SUVs, but this time Ive found a gem.
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Eeeeeeexxxxxxxcellant - 2004 Lexus LX 470
By mastrbildr88 - January 5 - 10:00 ama 10...period....everything about this vehicle is awsome. Worth every penny. buy it macked out with the Levison and DVD
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WHATS A CAR WITHOUT SERVICE? - 2004 Lexus LX 470
By Kim B - January 4 - 10:23 pmBought 470 May 04.By end of May went on first road trip and discovered door leaked and created an obnoxious squealing sound while traveling at high speed.Lexus dealership tried to fix twice then gave up and sent us to LEXUS USA.We have not gotten any support from them at all.They havent addressed the problem. Its unbelievable how badly they have treated us. Our door still screams when we travel which is every other week. They have our 70K they win.Please dont buy Lexus.
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Best GPS system anywhere! - 2004 Lexus LX 470
By HappyLexusOwner - November 22 - 10:00 amI love my Lexus 470! The car handles well, looks great, and has gotten me through some wicked snow storms and rain squalls. The interior is roomy and the sound system rocks.
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mYrEVIEW - 2000 Lexus LX 470
By Ronald - October 25 - 2:00 amI feel its sporty when needed, u could turn it into even more luxurious or even more sporty by adjusting a switch controling the shocks. Beutiful must have.
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Luxury/Quality/Performance/Fun - 2003 Lexus LX 470
By pghharshmans - September 21 - 10:00 amLexus continues to improve upon perfection.
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Love it! - 1999 Lexus LX 470
By t.a. - September 15 - 2:00 amFantastic build quality. For a used vehicle, no one can believe this vehicle has 79,000 miles on it! Whisper quiet, silky smooth.
