Lexus LX470, 2003

Lexus LX470, 2003

 

 

The Lexus LX is a full-size luxury sport utility vehicle sold by the Lexus division of Toyota. Also, it was Lexus's first SUV. It has a 4.7-liter, four-cam V8 engine with four valves per cylinder. The LX has a welded steel body and a capacity to seat eight passengers. The LX replaced the Toyota Land Cruiser for the Canadian market, because most automobile companies (except for GM, Ford and Chrysler) could not sell rebadged models in Canada, the real reason being that big expensive SUVs do not fare well with Canada. Thus, having a Land Cruiser and LX470 in the same market makes matters worse.

The LX470 shares the same floorplan and most body panels with the Toyota Land Cruiser. The current LX470 differs from the Land Cruiser only in its front optics and a more luxurious interior.

Recently, Toyota made it clear that the next LX will be completely different from the Land Cruiser. Because there isn't space for two similar SUVs in the North American market. The LX's repalcement will most likely be smaller but more luxurious than the upcoming Land Cruiser. Hence directly competing with the Range Rover.

2003 upgrades
For the 2003 model year, the Lexus LX470 received an interior refesh, new grille, redesigned wheel rims and a 5-speed gearbox (an upgrade from the previous 4-speed gearbox).

2006 upgrades
For 2006, the engine's output was increased 45 hp, boosting the total output to 275 hp. The engine provided VVT-i (variable valve timing). New LED rear taillamps, a new grille and redesigned wheel spokes were added.