The 2016 Lexus LX 570 was just announced at Monterey Car Week in Pebble Beach, CA. With changes made to everything with the exception of the door panels which have been carried over from the 2015 model. The Lexus LX 570 is the luxury big brother to the already capable Toyota Land Cruiser and is packed full of off-road capability. When it arrived in 2008 it left us impressed on our Four Wheeler Of The Year test in 2009 taking second place overall. With manufacturers moving toward crossovers and CUVs the 2016 LX 570 has all the makings of a truly capable SUV.

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One of the last body-on-frame SUVs available, the Lexus LX 570 is getting a complete redesign but still staying true to its off-road roots. Starting with exterior upgrades, new features include a one-piece spindle grille with a satin chrome finish, standard LED headlights, fog lights, and turn signals. While the rear section gets upgraded with new taillights, a new easy-lift clamshell style tailgate with a powered upper section, and a new bumper. Finishing off the exterior upgrades are new 20-inch 10-spoke wheels standard with 21-inch wheels available.

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The upgrades aren’t purely cosmetic, the drivetrain and off-road performance are improved. With an eight-speed transmission going behind the 5.7L V8 that produces 383 hp and 403 lb-ft of torque, on-highway fuel economy should improve while still providing off-road grunt to keep you moving. The LX 570 features a Torsen limited-slip center differential providing full-time four-wheel drive with a 40/60 torque split under normal driving conditions. The rear differential can be locked when off-road providing traction over challenging surfaces. The four-wheel Active Traction Control System (A-TRAC) works to control wheel spin and with the Multi-Terrain Select system the driver can improve performance by selecting the right terrain. Selectable terrain options include Rock, Rock and Dirt, Mogul, Loose Rock, and Mud and Sand, giving the driver confidence to get through any terrain. When traversing steep hills and uneven terrain the transmission’s driver-selectable low-range of 2.618 gets support from Crawl Control and Hill-start Assist, assuring drivers will really have to try getting stuck.

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With Lexus improving the off-road capability it’s no shock that on-road handling and performance was improved as well. With four-wheel active height control, automatic load leveling and Driver Mode Select, on-road comfort is a priority in the LX 570. Driver Mode Select was added to allow the driver to adjust powertrain and suspension response with a dial mounted on the console. The system controls the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) a suspension technology that continually adjusts shock absorbers compression and rebound ensuring a comfortable ride for all eight passengers. Driver Mode Select offers the driver the choice of 4 different modes, ECO, COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT S+. ECO mode does as the name implies, adjusts powertrain response to allow for fuel-efficient driving. COMFORT mode provides the smoothest ride possible using the AVS system. SPORT mode Calls for more powertrain response while requiring more steering input giving the LX 570 a sportier feeling while driving, SPORT S+ adds Firmer dampening to improve handling.

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Lexus couldn’t leave the interior alone and added a ton of new premium features surrounding the driver and passengers in first-class luxury and the latest in technology and safety. The amenities that have been added from the dash to the cargo area would impress even the most discerning buyer. With heated and cooled front and second row seats, everyone can stay comfortable on the trail. The center console cool box option keeps beverages ready to drink anytime, while the dual 11.6-inch rear screens keep backseat passengers entertained during long road trips. From the drivers seat a Heads Up Display (HUD), 12.3-inch infotainment system, panoramic view monitor, blind spot monitoring, and climate concierge allow the driver to focus on driving while staying comfortable.

With plenty of cargo and passenger space were glad to see the Lexus LX 570 get an update for 2016 that’s more that a front fascia and new wheels. With improved off-road capability and functional technology, we like that it has USB charging ports in every row and a 120V outlet in the cargo area (we charge a lot of gear), the LX 570 has us intrigued. Pricing and availability haven’t been announced but we will keep you updated.

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Source:Lexus