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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  Lexus LX 470 -1st Lexus Experience - 2007 Lexus LX 470
  By NC Lexus 470 - August 26 - 11:50 am

  The 470 is a very smooth riding enjoyable truck that offers enough HP for beaches to mountains. The gas mileage is worse than my former Chevy Suburban but the smooth quality ride is a little better. Note to those considering: the navigation system is really bad. It blocks the driver and passenger from searching for anything while the vehicle is moving. There is no work-around and we were told there was a bypass by two dealerships we contacted when we couldnt figure out how I could use it while my husband drove. It is a huge flaw in the vehicle if you do more than local driving. Lots of room in the interior and would love to keep but probably last Lexus due to nav limits.

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  Lexus LX 470 - 2006 Lexus LX 470
  By kmeyer - July 13 - 9:56 am

  Open your wallets for this gas guzzler! Too many electronics - takes some time to learn and get used to. Love the navigation and stereo. The sunroof is very loud when opened, but all in all its a beautiful vehicle inside and out!

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  sweet car - 2004 Lexus LX 470
  By mark simon - July 12 - 10:00 am

  great all around car

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  Unmatched luxury - 2005 Lexus LX 470
  By J-WEST - July 5 - 12:43 pm

  This is a great suv. It really shines in the snow, when everyone else is slipping and sliding Im glued to the road with unmatched luxury. Plus it seems the gas mileage gets better over time. Also its super quiet and refined. The only problem for those of you who like to get up and go is the horsepower, but thats all right.To sum it up: the best there is, the best there was and the best there ever will be.

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  lexus lx470 donnas view - 2003 Lexus LX 470
  By donnanard - May 27 - 2:00 am

  love the truck, performs well always. love the looks

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  Its Good To Be The King - 2000 Lexus LX 470
  By mrfogle - May 19 - 3:30 am

  After looking over many of the luxury SUVs available. The LX is hands down the best "real" SUV you can buy. This 2000 vehicle has almost all the features my new 2006 sedan has (heated seats, auto dimming rear views) and some it doesnt (electronic stability control to prevent rollovers, ride height adjustment and real time dynamic suspension, and two independent climate controls for front and rear passengers). And even though a bit sluggish from a stop, it has lots of pulling power (80% of which is available at just 1100 rpm!), the sign of a "true" SUV with an engine designed for it, not just out of a truck. You will get use to the gas mileage.

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  My Second LX-470 - 2002 Lexus LX 470
  By Windpointe - May 3 - 10:00 am

  This is my 2nd LX-470. My 98 was awesome, but the 2002 is even better. Its like sitting in your living room on trips. It can be driven in "fun" mode or "luxury" mode depending on how one feels. It was definitely worth the four year upgrade to get the Nav System and the Mark Levinson Audio System, plus a few other new bells and whistles. I cant imagine another vehicle Id rather own.

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  Best Rig on the Road for the NW - 2000 Lexus LX 470
  By Doug in Portland - April 24 - 11:40 pm

  Ive had my Lexus for 4 years. Its my favorite vehicle I have ever owned out nine. I feel safe, secluded, pampered, yet enjoy the capability in the snow and off road of the NW. I put 295/75/16 BFG All Terrains on it, and it looks sweet. I will probably never sell it, as it has everything I need and like. A heated seats, a center locking diff, suspension adjustment, sunroof, killer stereo, etc. The size is perfect too, such that you can park it with ease unlike a Suburban, Escalade, or Sequoia. And it fits in the garage with room to walk around it. The new one looks great, but until they make it with 25 -30 mpg there is no reason to upgrade. Buy a 99-02 model and youll be happy.

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  Simply Perfect - 1999 Lexus LX 470
  By lawboy74 - April 16 - 11:03 am

  I picked up this vehicle with a lot of miles but it still rides better than most brand new cars. The quality build by Toyota/Lexus is simply amazing. I have had many cars but this one is superior in so many categories most specifically in the quality product. Everyone loves this vehicle when they get in it and no one can believe it has 132K miles for the way it looks or feels. The leather doesnt show any cracks and there are no annoying rattles. You will not regret buying this vehicle (just be ready to pay at the pump). You will LOVE this car.

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  Very Happy - 2004 Lexus LX 470
  By HDW - March 6 - 10:00 am

  Cant tell you how happy I have been with my LX. The dealer makes sure your car buying experience and service is a pleasure. On the few occasions I have had to have something repaired they have always been fast and eager to please. Driving the LX is also a pleasure. The quiet and smooth ride in amazing for a SUV of this size.