Lexus tows the line with big SUV

Lexus LX570. Photo / Supplied

The heavyweight of the Lexus lineup returns to New Zealand with the launch this week of the new-look LX570 SUV.

Sporting a bold new face and smart on-board technology, the LX570 SUV adopts Lexus' signature spindle grille and receives fresh exterior styling front and rear, including new 20 inch alloy wheels.

The Lexus LX has been sold here since 1998 when it was introduced as the LX470. The LX570 was launched in 2008. The 2012 changes are the most significant to date. The improved LX570 is priced at $196,400, no change from the outgoing model.

Lexus NZ manager Debbie Pattullo said, "The LX570 represents the best of Lexus' off-road technology and performance. The technology in this new model helps ensure every driver gets the most out of their LX."

Both front and rear bumpers are redesigned, and the rear bumper protector is enhanced by a stainless steel accent. Tail lights and a more integrated tow hitch cover also received attention.

The eight-passenger cabin of the LX570 has undergone a number of changes. The driver's seat gets a new Easy Access system, which makes entering and exiting the vehicle easier.

The LX570's 5.7 litre V8 delivers the punch and towing power demanded in this segment, producing 270kW of power at 5,600rpm and peak torque of 530Nm at 3200rpm.

Crucial to LX customers who tow with their vehicles, 90 per cent of peak torque is available at just 2200rpm.

LX570 has a braked towing capacity of 3500 kilograms when paired with the Lexus Genuine accessory tow bar and plug-and-play trailer wiring harness.

Newly adopted steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, controlling a six-speed automatic transmission, ensure that customers can make the best use of this power, on and off-road. A sequential shift mode also allows the driver to select gears manually.

The system uses a Torsen limited-slip locking centre differential with front to rear variable torque distribution, directing more power to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur. Four-wheel Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) employs both brake and throttle intervention to help control wheel spin.

The Crawl Control or off-road cruise control feature has been upgraded, increasing the number of pre-set speeds from three to five steps, for greater off-road control.

The new Turn Assist feature tightens the turning circle by adding more brake force to the inside rear wheel, while the new Multi-terrain Select function allows drivers to optimise vehicle performance by choosing from five types of terrain - including rock, rock and dirt, mogul, loose rock, and mud and sand - delivering the ideal combination of stability and traction control assistance over different surfaces.

The Active Height Control (AHC) system lowers the chassis for entry and exit and returns to its normal height when the vehicle begins to accelerate. For improved aerodynamics and on-road stability, the AHC system also lowers the vehicle when travelling at higher speeds.

The LX570 is equipped with 10 airbags, including driver and front passenger knee airbags, front and second row seat-mounted side airbags, and roll-sensing side curtain airbags that cover all three rows.