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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  new is better - 2003 Lexus LX 470
  By jcy - October 22 - 10:00 am

  just got my new LX470 a week ago, and already put in 350 miles( cant resist to spin it around the town).This car is built with the highest quality and so comfortable, smooth and luxury that you dont feel like driving a SUV. I had owned and driven Acura MDX(2001&2002 models)recently, and there is no comparison!!! You get what you pay for.

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  Great car-cannot back up safe - 2001 Lexus LX 470
  By Dennis Fields - October 22 - 10:00 am

  How can such an expensive car not have a warning for back up like the cheaper Fords and GM cars?

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  A Perfect Friend - 2004 Lexus LX 470
  By dionysus - October 19 - 10:00 am

  Interior is awesome and unparalleled, comparing to those German $100K whatever. Exterior is grandiose. It kept 5 people comfortable in a 3000+ mile trip, mostly highway at 85mph and 14mpg. No electrical problem, no degrading in the ride quality so far. Bluetooth is convenient. DVD nav is handy, also the backup camera. Mark Levinson is better than some home audio. Ownership is superb. Overall, it does more than I can dream out of a $70K SUV. It gives me all the confidence I need for driving. For my family, its an ultimate friend, way beyond a machine. I love her.

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  I love my LX 470 - 2003 Lexus LX 470
  By olihs - September 22 - 2:00 am

  This is the second one I have had, and I feel very safe with my selection. I will continue to buy the LX 470 in the future.

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  pepes review - 2000 Lexus LX 470
  By pepe - September 20 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle has been a joy to own. The couple of minor cosmetic defects were addressed immediately by the service department and covered under warranty. The acceleration is outstanding and the ride is wonderful.

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  Awesome vehicle! - 2001 Lexus LX 470
  By Conifer Dan - September 16 - 2:00 am

  The Lexus LX470 is the finest SUV Ive ever driven. I live in the Colorado mountains and "use" this vehicle like a sports utility was meant to be used. This vehicle is a fine example of a high end Lexus... Very quiet and smooth. It feels like youre floating on air!

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  In love with mine... - 1999 Lexus LX 470
  By Simon_Capell - September 10 - 10:00 am

  Wanted a Land Cruiser with a bit extra comfort and Lexus level dealer service. Got it all and more with this vehicle - it continues to surprise me with its awesome construction quality and smoothness of operation. You just drive it and it works - simple as that. Spent a reasonable amount of time off road as well and it has been faultless (mountain passes/driveable beaches/deep snow).

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  Lexus LX470 - 2004 Lexus LX 470
  By michaelbell - September 5 - 10:00 am

  Great SUV. Cant wait to buy my next one.

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  This review for 2001 -- Still has bugs - 2002 Lexus LX 470
  By RL3 - September 3 - 2:00 am

  I had a 1998 LX470 with several problems. It always pulled to one side or the other (steering wheel never centered correctly) on highway; emergency brake cable rattled near/at right rear wheel; tilt/telescope motors went out several times. Lexus never could fix either problem; took back under lemon law. I bought a 2001 just like it hoping they would have fixed problems. New 2001 pulls to left at highway speeds; same emergency brake cable rattle at right rear wheel; tilt/telescope motors already replaced once; transfer case replaced (vibration); Several rattles interior. Very disappointing to have basically same problems on same vehicle 3 model years later.

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  this is not a suv its a luxury car - 2000 Lexus LX 470
  By mark ross - August 23 - 10:00 am

  iv owned a range rover 4.6 i thought this was it i was so mistaken the lexus lx 470 dives and handles like the best of the best comfort everything i was so surprized go ahead lexus