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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  Best vehicle on planet - 2002 Lexus LX 470
  By ubet - January 9 - 11:26 pm

  This truck is comfortable, smart, and capable. No other car in the world has this quality. No other car in the world has this capability combined with such luxury. I feel on top of the world behind the wheel, and can only think of getting another one for my wife.

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  wonderful - 2004 Lexus LX 470
  By jburke - January 8 - 10:00 am

  this suv is awesome. by far the best vehicle ive ever owned. navigator and escalade do not even compair. i highly recommend

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  2004 LX 470 - 2004 Lexus LX 470
  By Jerry in San Carlos - November 21 - 10:00 am

  Overall excellant vehicle.This vehicle does everything well.Materials and craftmanship are second to none.Ride is buttery smooth and very elegant.Mark levinson sound system rivals many home systems.The navigation system is very easy to use and is very detailed. The handsfree Bluetooth Phone system is excellant, every car should have this.Overall this car is highly recommended and would purchase again next time around.

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  Rajeevs Review - 2005 Lexus LX 470
  By goelrg - November 21 - 10:00 am

  I would rate this is as one of the best 4 wheels ever produced, luxury power and style. Lest say it is Beauty and the Beast togather.

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  Great Truck - 1999 Lexus LX 470
  By homer32 - September 30 - 10:00 am

  We are very happy with this vehicle.

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  Simply the Best, 2005 Lexus LX 470 - 2005 Lexus LX 470
  By wlsn951 - September 23 - 12:10 pm

  My new LX470 is absolutely spectacular in ever way except fuel mileage. This is my second LX470, the first being a 2002. As delivered, from day one, there have been no problems what so ever. Nice to drive, great fit and finish, and impressive off road performance. What else can I say, it is a Lexus. Dave

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  PLEASANT TO DRIVE - 2004 Lexus LX 470
  By MBG - September 1 - 10:00 am

  THIS SUV IS VERY VERY QUIET AND MUCH LESS STRESSFULL THAN MY PREVIOUS BMW X5 I LOVE IT I HOPE TO ENJOY THAT EXTRA SIZE THE STERRING IS SUPERB

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  Best SUV period - 2005 Lexus LX 470
  By rcm10 - July 24 - 11:00 pm

  I first purchased an LX in 2000. Im on my 3rd and 4th ones now. These dont ever break..ever. I have gray 2005 and my wife has a black 2007. Comfortable, reliable. They are fairly expensive new, but if you can find one(and its difficult) a year old or so you will not be sorry. I live on an island in Florida and it floods often after heavy summer rains. no problem, Push the button to raise the car six inches and plow on through when you get to 20mph it lowers itself back down. In my opinion, this car looks like a perfect combination of tough and refined making it a true classic.

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  Awesome car - 2007 Lexus LX 470
  By CYM - June 19 - 12:36 am

  This is a great car. I rated most of the comfort, performance, etc., a 9 and not a 10 because when rating cars comfort, a car is the gold standard compared to an SUV. For an SUV, it is pretty comfortable, esp. for one that can go off-road and isnt a "crossover." The only complaint I have heard is that the style is "dated." I would disagree, its a nice looking car thats tough, yet refined and not crazy looking like some of the new SUVs around. It does eat up gas, but thats expected with a V8 in an SUV. Great car if you want to be able to go anywhere. Better value compared to any other lux SUVs in terms of options that come with it as a standard.

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  Classy - 1999 Lexus LX 470
  By rahang - May 29 - 4:53 am

  Bought this vehicle used from repeat owner of LX 470s who also loves the LX 470. We have driven it in the Rocky Mountains and Northern Michigan in various extreme weather and road conditions and it hardly skipped a heartbeat. Then the problems. Front wheel portion of AWD failed completely without warning and complete and thorough maintenance & records upkeep. No reason, just failed with less than 120K miles on vehicle. Lexus Company left me dry and lacking enthusiasm for its continued reliability stating I should have bought extended warranty. Chagrined that a seemingly top notch vehicle of this caliber has such a major problem with so few miles, but goes to show failure happens