The 2016 Lexus Lx 570 marked a significant refresh for the flagship luxury SUV, reinforcing its position as a leader in combining opulent comfort with formidable off-road prowess. Introduced at the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, a venue synonymous with automotive excellence, the updated LX 570 showcased a range of enhancements, from a redesigned exterior to advanced technology and safety features. This comprehensive upgrade touched nearly every aspect of the vehicle, solidifying its appeal to discerning buyers seeking a no-compromise SUV.
A Striking New Face: Exterior and Design Overhaul
Lexus designers undertook a comprehensive restyling of the LX 570’s exterior for 2016, with only the door panels remaining unchanged from the previous model year. The most immediately noticeable alteration is the adoption of a bolder, more assertive iteration of Lexus’ signature spindle grille. This one-piece grille, framed by satin chrome accents, commands attention and integrates seamlessly with the new standard LED headlights, daytime running lights, turn signals, and fog lights. This lighting upgrade not only enhances visibility but also adds a contemporary edge to the LX 570’s front fascia.
Alt text: The 2016 Lexus LX 570 boasts a redesigned front end featuring a prominent one-piece spindle grille, flanked by modern and efficient LED headlights, enhancing its luxurious and commanding presence.
Further enhancing the exterior transformation are newly designed wheels. Standard 20-inch split 10-spoke alloy wheels provide a sophisticated stance, while optional 21-inch 10-spoke wheels offer an even more imposing and premium aesthetic. The rear of the vehicle also received attention, with updated taillights and a redesigned rear bumper contributing to a more modern and cohesive design language. These exterior refinements collectively elevate the 2016 Lexus LX 570’s visual appeal, ensuring it stands out in the competitive luxury SUV segment.
Performance and Handling: Enhanced Drivetrain and Dynamics
Beyond its striking new looks, the 2016 LX 570 benefited from significant mechanical upgrades designed to improve both on-road performance and off-road capability. A key enhancement is the introduction of a new eight-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous six-speed unit. This advanced transmission contributes to smoother gear changes, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced responsiveness across the driving spectrum.
The integration of Drive Mode Select further refines the driving experience. This system, familiar from other Lexus models, allows drivers to tailor the LX 570’s powertrain and suspension characteristics to suit various driving conditions and preferences. Controlled via a dial on the center console, Drive Mode Select offers modes such as ECO, which prioritizes fuel economy; COMFORT, which optimizes ride smoothness; SPORT S and SPORT S+, which sharpen powertrain response and handling agility through adjustments to the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS). AVS continuously adjusts shock absorber damping in real-time, ensuring optimal comfort and control regardless of road surface changes.
Alt text: The strong side profile of the 2016 Lexus LX 570 is accentuated by its available 21-inch 10-spoke wheels and indicates its powerful engine and sophisticated chassis designed for both luxury and off-road adventures.
Powering the 2016 Lexus LX 570 is the proven 5.7-liter V8 engine, delivering 383 horsepower and a substantial 403 lb.-ft. of torque. Crucially, 90 percent of this peak torque is available from just 3,600 rpm, providing ample low-end grunt for confident acceleration and towing. With a towing capacity of 7,000 pounds, the LX 570 remains a highly capable vehicle for hauling trailers, boats, or recreational equipment, further enhancing its versatility.
Advanced Technology and Safety: Elevating the Driving Experience
The 2016 Lexus LX 570 incorporates a suite of new and upgraded technology features designed to enhance convenience, connectivity, and safety. A standout addition is the standard panoramic view camera, providing a 360-degree view around the vehicle. This system is invaluable for maneuvering in tight spaces, navigating off-road trails, and, particularly, when hitching and maneuvering trailers. The expansive 12.3-inch navigation screen can display various camera views, offering drivers unparalleled visibility and control in diverse situations.
Alt text: The spacious and luxurious interior of the 2016 Lexus LX 570 features an upgraded 12.3-inch multimedia display and Remote Touch Interface, emphasizing advanced technology and passenger comfort in a premium SUV cabin.
Safety is paramount in the LX 570, and the 2016 model year sees the introduction of standard Lexus Safety System +. This comprehensive suite of active safety technologies includes Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Intelligent High Beam (IHB), and All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. These systems work in concert to help prevent accidents and mitigate potential collisions.
All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control maintains a preset distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed as needed. PCS can detect vehicles and pedestrians, providing warnings and initiating automatic braking if a collision is imminent. LDA alerts the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane, and IHB automatically adjusts between high and low beams for optimal visibility without blinding other drivers. Additional standard safety features include Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Tire Specific Tire Pressure Monitoring System, further enhancing driver awareness and vehicle safety. An available Heads-Up Display (HUD) projects key information onto the windshield, minimizing driver distraction and keeping crucial data within the line of sight.
Interior Refinements and Connectivity: Luxury and Convenience Redefined
Inside the cabin, the 2016 Lexus LX 570 receives a host of upgrades designed to further enhance its luxurious ambiance and passenger experience. New wood trim options, including Matte Walnut, Linear Dark Mocha, Linear Espresso, and Dark Brown Walnut, offer a richer and more personalized interior aesthetic. A new three-spoke wood-trimmed steering wheel adds a touch of classic elegance, while the redesigned analog clock, housed in an aluminum ingot and featuring GPS-based time zone adjustment, blends modern technology with traditional craftsmanship.
Alt text: Premium interior details of the 2016 Lexus LX 570 are evident in the rich wood trim, supple leather seating, and meticulous craftsmanship, creating an environment of sophisticated luxury for both driver and passengers.
Comfort features are further enhanced with available heated and ventilated middle-row seats, now included in the Luxury Package, ensuring passenger comfort in all climates. The center console cool box is now offered as a standalone option, providing convenient chilled storage. The new standard Climate Concierge system automatically monitors and adjusts the temperature in all four climate zones, including seat and steering wheel heating/ventilation, to maintain optimal comfort for all occupants.
For rear-seat passengers, the available Rear Seat Entertainment System is upgraded with larger 11.6-inch screens, replacing the previous 7.0-inch units. Second-row USB ports and armrest-mounted controls for audio and climate further enhance passenger convenience and connectivity. New LED ambient lighting throughout the cabin and cargo area, along with touch-sensor overhead lighting, adds a modern and sophisticated touch to the interior environment.
The multimedia system is significantly upgraded with a new 12.3-inch display and Remote Touch Interface (RTI). Navigation gains full-screen map capability, and the screen can be split to display multiple functions simultaneously. Siri® Eyes Free Mode integration allows iPhone users to access features like iTunes, Apple Maps, and more via voice commands. Expanded Lexus Enform features, including Service Connect and Remote, provide enhanced connectivity and vehicle management capabilities via smartphone apps. A wireless charging tray for Qi-compatible devices is also available, further catering to the needs of tech-savvy users.
Off-Road Prowess and Capability: Uncompromising Performance on Any Terrain
Beneath its luxurious veneer, the 2016 Lexus LX 570 retains its legendary off-road capability. Built on a robust body-on-frame structure, the LX 570 provides a solid foundation for both on-road refinement and off-road durability. A Torsen® limited-slip locking center differential and full-time four-wheel drive system ensure optimal traction in various conditions. The system automatically adjusts torque distribution between the front and rear axles, and the center differential can be locked for maximum traction in challenging off-road situations.
Alt text: The 2016 Lexus LX 570 confidently navigates a rocky off-road trail, showcasing its robust four-wheel-drive system, high ground clearance, and advanced off-road technologies like Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control.
The four-wheel Active Traction Control system (A-TRAC) further enhances off-road performance by controlling wheel slip, and the Multi-Terrain Select system allows drivers to optimize A-TRAC performance for specific terrain types, including Rock, Rock and Dirt, Mogul, Loose Rock, and Mud and Sand. Crawl Control with Turn Assist, Hill-start Assist Control, and Variable Gear Ratio Steering further assist in navigating challenging off-road environments. The LX 570’s low-range gearing provides exceptional low-speed crawling capability for steep inclines and uneven terrain.
Conclusion: A Refined Icon of Luxury and Capability
The 2016 Lexus LX 570 represents a comprehensive evolution of a luxury SUV icon. With its striking new exterior design, enhanced drivetrain and driving dynamics, advanced technology and safety features, and refined interior, the updated LX 570 elevates the ownership experience to new heights. It remains one of the few vehicles in its class to seamlessly blend opulent luxury with genuine off-road capability, making it an ideal choice for discerning buyers who demand both sophistication and versatility. The 2016 Lexus LX 570 stands as a testament to Lexus’ commitment to continuous improvement and its dedication to delivering unparalleled luxury and performance in every vehicle.
