When our family would go on backpacking trips, we’d load up our old SUV and head for our favorite trailhead. Driving down those dirty, dusty and rutted roads would cover the car in layers of dirt and mud. When we returned to it days later, dirty and dusty ourselves, we gave no thought to hopping in with our mud-crusted hiking boots and heading home.
I’m not sure I would be so cavalier about taking the 2014 Lexus LX 570 to our favorite mountain hiking spot. Not that this full-sized luxury SUV couldn’t easily navigate the off-road trails and mountainous ascent. The 2014 Lexus LX 570 is so packed with premium amenities, it would feel like wearing high heels to a backpacking trip.
(Above): Interior view of the 2014 Lexus LX 570.
But, not everyone craves the bare bones treatment. For some, luxury is the only way to roll. When they head off on vacation, it’s to a secluded vacation home or exotic locales, where, even as Lexus press materials note, “a safari wouldn’t be out of the question.”
If that’s your personal journey, whether making your way to a mountain-top vacation spot or just around town on your regular chores, do consider the 2014 Lexus LX 570, because this large and luxurious SUV with room for eight will get you there in total comfort and with all the latest in technological conveniences.
Lexus first introduced its LX models nearly 20 years ago, and they have always featured a balance between luxury and off-road capability. The LX 570 was totally refreshed for 2013 models, and receives minor tweaks for 2014. Its highlights include a 383-horsepower, 5.7-liter V8 engine; 7,000 pound towing capacity; an Adaptive Variable Suspension; and full-time 4WD with Multi-terrain Select system that lets the driver select the type of terrain – rock, rock and dirt, mogul, loose rock, or mud and sand – for optimal traction control.
(Above): Exterior view of the 2014 Lexus LX 570.
The LX 570 is also equipped with a driver-selectable low range for the transmission, which gives you low-speed crawling capability when you’re facing steep off-road declines. This also activates Active Height Control, which automatically raises the vehicle’s ground clearance by two inches. Hill-start Assist prevents the LX from rolling backward on an incline when you go from a stopped position to acceleration.
While all that is terrific to have if you’re headed up and over the mountains, there is much to enjoy along with your everyday driving, starting with the Adaptive Variable Suspension, which provides a pleasantly smooth and quiet ride.
(Above): Exterior view of the 2014 Lexus LX 570.
Behind the wheel, you’ll find a 14-way adjustable seat for the driver, a rear back-up camera for enhanced safety, and front power-seat cushion extenders for added comfort. Four-zone independent climate controls assure comfort of all eight passengers, and a power sliding second row seat makes getting into and out of the third row easier. The third row also has a power retraction feature, and the seats fold in a 50/50 split into the floor. When the third row is in the “down” position, you have access to a large cargo area.
Safety features include 10 standard air bags, including knee air bags for driver and front passenger; Active Front Headrests that move upward and forward in low speed rear-end collisions; and a Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
On the road, we found the seats were comfortable but firm. Visibility for all is very good and there is generous leg and hip room for all.
The 2014 Lexus LX 570 continues to deliver on its original vision of providing its owners with a classy balance of luxury and everyday functionality, whether they are heading off the road or out in high style.
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