Inside Story, Lexus

Inside Story: 2009 Lexus LX 570 Premium Package

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April 2, 2009

Cargo Embargo

2009 Lexus LX 570. Click image to enlarge

Unique to the LX 570 is the two-part power liftgate/tailgate combo. The gate adds two storage compartments, one dedicated to a jacking and general tools set. The third row seats fold to the side when not in use, with a combination of manual and power assists to place and stow. Grocery-getting space is still afforded with the third row seating active.

Spare Care

Much like the recent Highlander Hybrid review, the LX 570 spare benefits from its involvement in the tire pressure monitoring system. Too bad the experience of removing it will be downright slimey. Lexus will change it for you, during the first four years of ownership, with no mileage restrictions.

The Mill

Somewhere, beneath all that useless plastic is a 383-horsepower 5.7-litre V8. About the only thing you’ll be able to check is the basic fluids. Removal attempts were concerning, especially the threat of breakage under extreme cold conditions. Transport Canada figures peg the LX 570 at 17.1 L/100 km (city), and 11.4 L/100 km (highway). It’s important to remember that the TC rulings, especially for highway, involve speeds that few travellers seldom maintain. Of particular note is their maximum speed of 97 km/h. (vehicles.gc.ca)

The Verdict

Can such a beast ever be considered practical? Inside Story says ‘Slightly Maybe’, if your passenger complement is in the neighbourhood of eight, your home is located 10 miles off the beaten path, and you tow very large things for a living. If this be your dilemma, a Limited or Platinum edition of the Sequoia makes for a ‘Yes’ in the fiscal responsibility department. Our ego’s are a fragile egg, and the one upside to an LX 570 for the well-heeled is that one vehicle could ultimately replace two, when you consider this luxo brute’s capability, and the refinements within. And yet, I can’t help think of the Simpson’s ‘Canyonero’ send-up of the ridiculous excesses that exist amongst uber-SUV’s. Even more amazing is how many exist for your consideration, and your ego.

2009 Range Rover Sport: MSRP from $71,600

2009 BMW X5 xDrive 4.8i: MSRP from $71,500

2009 Cadillac Escalade: MSRP from $83,460

Prices shown do not include freight, taxes, regional or promotional incentives.

Next week: 2009 Dodge Ram

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