2020 lexus LX 570 Review

In Malaysia's luxury full-size SUV market, the Lexus LX series has always occupied a unique position with its dual labels of "luxury + off-road"—it needs to meet urban elites' high demands for cabin quality while withstanding the challenges of Southeast Asia's varied terrains. As the core model of the series, the 2020 LX 570 focuses on key selling points like the "practicality of an 8-seat layout," "fully loaded luxury features," and "reliable performance from a naturally aspirated 5.7L V8 engine." This test drive aims to verify whether it can strike a precise balance between luxury comfort and off-road performance, while also meeting the daily travel needs of multi-child families.

Approaching the 2020 LX 570, the first impression is its typical tough luxury SUV stance: a vehicle length of 5080mm paired with a width of 1980mm, a square and robust silhouette without excessive streamlined design, exuding natural authority. The front features the iconic spindle-shaped grille with its exaggerated dimensions, using a black mesh interior surrounded by chrome trim that effortlessly exudes luxury. The sharp LED headlight design connects to the upper edge of the grille, visually widening the front profile, and comes standard with auto headlights and daytime running lights for high practicality. The side profile displays straight lines, with 21-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels paired with 275/50 R21 tires, maintaining the rugged style while enhancing on-road stability. Chrome running boards below the doors and chrome side skirts further enhance the luxury feel. The rear design is relatively simple, with horizontally arranged LED taillights echoing the front end, while the chrome scuff plate under the rear bumper and dual exhaust outlets hint at its performance capabilities. Overall, the exterior design balances robust off-road aesthetics with the finesse of a luxury brand, ensuring a high level of attention on the road.

Sitting inside, the first thing that catches the eye is the center console wrapped in extensive leather and wood grain panels; the texture is refined, and the luxurious atmosphere is instantly elevated. The center console layout leans towards practicality, featuring a 12.3-inch floating touchscreen in the middle. While not the largest in its class, the display is clear, and the operation is smooth. Below the screen are physical buttons and knobs, making it easy to adjust the air conditioning and multimedia systems during driving. The instrument panel employs an electronic backlit analog design that provides abundant information, complemented by an HUD head-up display that allows you to access key information such as speed and navigation without looking down while driving. The configuration is nearly "fully loaded": the front seats support electric adjustment and memory functions, with good wrap-around and support. The second-row seats can slide electrically and recline manually, while the third-row seats support electric folding and manual flipping. In the 8-seat layout, the third-row space may not be very spacious for adults but is sufficient for emergency seating. When folded, the trunk volume expands from 258L to a super large space, making it suitable for transporting large items. Additionally, the standard Mark Levinson 19-speaker audio system delivers excellent sound quality, dual-zone automatic air conditioning with independent rear air-conditioning takes care of every passenger's needs, and the 220V power outlet and wireless charging (hidden inside the center armrest box) meet the charging needs of electronic devices.

Start the vehicle, and the low growl of the 5.7L V8 naturally aspirated engine resonates. With specs of a maximum power output of 367PS and a maximum torque of 530N·m (though the data is not directly provided, the actual experience aligns with the official tuning), paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the power delivery is smooth and linear. During daily drives, the throttle response is not overly aggressive, but when you press the throttle hard, power is delivered continuously, providing ample confidence when overtaking. There are three driving modes to choose from: Eco, Standard, and Sport. In Eco mode, the throttle response is softer, suitable for urban commuting; in Sport mode, the gearbox delays shifting, the revs stay at a higher level, and the power output is more direct. In terms of handling, the steering wheel has a moderate weight and minimal slack, offering precise control; the combination of the front double-wishbone independent suspension and rear four-link independent suspension filters out urban road bumps quite thoroughly, ensuring stable body posture. When encountering unpaved roads, the suspension provides sufficient support to effectively suppress body undulation. However, as the vehicle weighs 2,740 kg, noticeable body roll occurs during high-speed cornering. After all, this is a full-size SUV, and one can't expect too much in terms of handling.

As for fuel consumption, the official combined fuel consumption is 16.8L/100km. In actual city driving, the fuel consumption is around 18-20L/100km, while on highways, it can drop to 14-15L/100km. This performance is within expectations for a V8 engine. Regarding off-road performance, the standard full-time four-wheel-drive system and 225mm minimum ground clearance make it fully capable of handling Malaysia's common muddy roads and light off-road terrain. The uphill assist and hill descent control functions also reduce the difficulty of off-roading. As for ride comfort, the noise insulation is excellent, and wind noise and tire noise are well-controlled during high-speed driving. The seat padding is soft yet supportive, making long trips comfortable.

Overall, the core advantages of the 2020 Lexus LX 570 are clear: the practicality of an 8-seat layout, a fully equipped luxury setup, reliable V8 power, and solid off-road capabilities. Compared to peers like the Mercedes GLS or BMW X7, its off-road ability is superior, its features more comprehensive, and its price comparatively more affordable (with a guide price of RM 1,225,883, it is moderately positioned within the range of luxury full-size SUVs). However, its drawbacks are also evident, such as the cramped space in the third row and relatively high fuel consumption.

The target audience is clear: First, families with multiple children, as the 8-seat layout can accommodate the needs of family outings. Second, luxury car users who enjoy off-roading, as it not only exudes a sense of status in the city but also performs well on weekend adventures in the countryside. Finally, business users seeking reliability and features would appreciate the comfortable cabin and strong power for handling business receptions.

In conclusion, the 2020 Lexus LX 570 is a "well-rounded" luxury full-size SUV. It has no obvious shortcomings and strikes a perfect balance among luxury, practicality, power, and off-road capability. If you need a vehicle that can cater to family, business, and off-road activities, it is definitely worth considering.