The facelifted 2016 Lexus LX has been officially unveiled at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, following a long series of spy photos. Highlights include the refreshed exterior sporting the big, one-piece spindle grille, a new eight-speed automatic transmission, as well as more standard safety and infotainment features.
Lexus’ flagship SUV brings a significantly updated exterior for 2016, with the automaker claiming that only door panels carried over from 2015. The restyled front end now sports a bolder rendition of the Lexus signature spindle grille, framed by satin chrome trim and complemented by new standard LED headlights, turn signals and fog lights.
The 2016 Lexus LX 570 also gets a new look for the taillights and rear bumper, as well as new 20-inch split 10-spoke wheels (new 21-inch 10-spoke wheels available as an option).
The cabin of the big SUV has also received updates including new wood trim selections (Matte Walnut, Linear Dark Mocha, Linear Espresso and Dark Brown Walnut), a new three-spoke wood-rimmed steering wheel and a new analog clock with LED indicators and GPS functionality for adjusting the time zone.
The available Luxury Package now adds heated/ventilated middle row seats, while the center console cool box, formerly part of the Luxury Package, is now a standalone option. The 2016 Lexus LX 570 also gets a new standard Climate Concierge feature which adjusts not only the fans of the four separate climate zones, but also the temperature of the seats and steering wheel individually.
Other changes include larger 11.6-inch screens for the available dual screen Rear Seat Entertainment System, as well as USB ports and controls for the air conditioning and audio on the second row of seats. Finally, there’s new LED ambient lighting in the cabin and cargo area.
Mechanical upgrades for 2016 are highlighted by a new eight-speed automatic transmission that replaces the former six-speed for improved performance and efficiency. The 2016 Lexus LX 570 also features the New Drive Mode Select, which allows the driver to tailor powertrain and suspension responses by using a dial on the console, as well as to control responses of the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS).
The 5.7-liter V8 engine continues to produce 383hp and 403lb-ft (546Nm) of torque, available from 3,600 rpm. Lexus hasn’t revealed fuel economy ratings and performance figures yet.
New safety features include a standard panoramic view camera displayed on the new, larger 12.3-inch navigation screen, as well as the Lexus Safety System + which includes Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Intelligent High Beam (IHB) and All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.