2004 Lexus LX 470

Although still best known for as a purveyor of premium-grade passenger cars, Lexus has wasted no time in becoming a major player in the luxury SUV side of the game as well. While most of the limelight will be accorded its new GX 470, which nestles midway between the RX 330 and LX 470, the division's full-size offering boasts a few new interior upgrades for 2004 in the area of creature comforts that keep it fully in step with the rest of the divisions upscale offerings.

The LX 470's chassis is designed to ensure it's as capable?and comfortable?exploring the outback as it is on a long-distance freeway cruise.

For 2003, the LX 470 received several exterior styling improvements in the way of a new front fascia treatment highlighted by a bolder grill, and new multi-beam projector headlamps fitted with the same emerald-tint lenses introduced on the LS 430. Out back, the changes were equally understated, and centered on a revised combination lamp array and backup lamps/license-plate surround plus an integrated bumper hitch. Styling carries over for 2004.


Upon entering the LX 470's serene inner sanctum, you'll find one of the quietest, best-isolated and most richly appointed passenger compartments of any SUV in the world. Interior elements are notable, highlighted by a massive roster of standards that includes yards of supple leather trim counterpointed with a bounty of golden bird's-eye maple, a comprehensive array of power assists, moonroof, cruise control, AM/FM/cassette stereo with 6-disc in-console changer, power tilt/telescoping steering column, HomeLink programmable remote, anti-theft immobilizer and front/front-side/side-curtain airbags.


Complementing a cleanly styled dash are new additions to the mix like a rear back-up camera (with navigation), and the addition of Bluetooth to an overall updated navigation system. A trip computer, scheduled maintenance indicator, tire pressure monitor and rain-sensing wipers plus steering-wheel-mounted controls for the audio system and a rear-seat audio package with dual headset jacks are also featured. A key fob functionality that permits remote operation of the windows and sunroof and C-BEST (Customized Body Electronics) technology allows a Lexus dealer to preprogram several basic electronic functions to match a specific user profile.

The 4.7-liter DOHC V-8 churns out a maximum of 320 lb.-ft. at 3,400 rpm?80 percent of which is on hand from a mere 1,100 revs.

The LX 470's options roster includes a headliner-mounted, rear-seat DVD player, Lexus Link and a trick Night View system. Unlike see-in-the-dark setups that rely on pure infrared imaging, the Lexus package utilizes near-infrared light to look down the road 3-4 times the low-beam range. This subtle yet meaningful variation is designed to allow a more lifelike monochromatic "picture"—not just a mere heat signature—to be projected onto the head-up display box on the windshield.