LOOKS

The exterior is in-your-face (as models this big usually are) with its huge Lexus grille and unique headlight design. It’s not what you’d call sexy, more of a tank-like setup (well, a slightly curvy tank with some nice lines).

But the interior is what wows here. Everything from the quality of the steering wheel (which feels great in the hands), to the wood trim, to the soft and comfy leather seating and general cozy feel make this a vehicle you wouldn’t mind having your family ride in for a while.

Seating can be for as many as 8 passengers. There is a unique storage setup for the back row, with it folding up to the sides and not flat. I’m somewhat mixed on my feelings about this setup, to be honest. Folding into floor probably is a better option.

When the back row is in use, prepare for only the very short-legged to sit in the back … small kids only. The center row has ample leg room, and headspace is more than adequate throughout.

The number buttons/controls up front are a bit much … arranged in a way that could overwhelm some drivers, But you soon learn what you really need to use and what you don’t and get used to it. Voice controls also work effectively.

ENGINE, HORSEPOWER

So how does it feel to drive this 3-ton (6,000 pound) beast, which is also 199 inches long and 75 inches tall?

It’s powerful, thanks to a 5.7-liter V8 engine (383 horsepower, 403 lb.-ft. of torque).

The LX features full-time four-wheel drive, a 7000-pound towing capacity, and an impressive level of off-roading capability (one of the major selling points of this vehicle, and part of why it was introduced into Lexus’ lineup in the first place).

The downside to those three tons of weight is that the LX is not very fast to get moving. The ride is enjoyable and smooth, but the initial launch isn’t anything to write home about.
Drive mode options let you go to Sport mode for a bit more pep.

TECHNOLOGY, SAFETY

A lot of standard tech and safety features are offered on the LX570, including: Navigation with voice commands, Anti-lock braking, front seat belt pretensioners, energy-absorbing crumple zones/side-impact door beams, a very helpful rearview monitor with multiple angles for helping you back out, power heated front seats, app integration, rain-sensing wipers and much more.

The 12-inch display, which can be set up to feature multiple pieces of information at once, is among the best views you’ll get in the business. Controlling what’s on it, though, can be a concern. I’m getting more used to mouselike control offered in the LX and other Lexus models, but it’s still not my favorite setup as far as infotainment controls go.

Among optional features, I like the in-car entertainment ($2,005) and its TV screens offered on the back of the front seat headrests, so there’s no screen hanging in the way of the driver’s rearview glance if the kids want to watch a movie.

The heads-up display ($900) allows you keep looking at the road and still know how fast you’re going, which was helpful. And if you’re into music, a 19-speaker Mark Levinson audio system is offered for $2,350. The standard Lexus sound system features 9 speakers.

MPG
This is a rough spot, as vehicles this large don’t do well on gas mileage -- ever.
At 13 city/18 highway/15 combined, you’ll be visiting the gas station quite a bit with your LX.

PRICE
My test vehicle was a hair under $97,000 with all said and done; Base price starts at $88,880. This high pricetag is part of the reason many folks who look at the LX might step down to smaller SUVs from Lexus or others, but if you’re committed to a big luxury ride the price range is not going to be too much cheaper elsewhere.

BOTTOM LINE

Those who can manage to wrap their wallets around a luxury land barge have a tempting option in the 2016 Lexus LX570. It’s probably a bit too much vehicle for most people unless you’re into off-roading, but I could see myself enjoying this as a daily driver due to its way of making you feel at home when you’re behind the wheel. Lack of acceleration and poor fuel mileage are some low points, but overall design and performance make it a strong option in its class.

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Matt Myftiu can be found on Twitter @MattMyftiu.