Lexus' newly introduced, 1996 LX 450 is a big step into the sport utility sector, both literally and figuratively. It seems just about every manufacturer is jumping head first into the booming sport utility segment, including upscale manufacturers like Toyota's Lexus nameplate. Besides Lexus, other high-end manufacturers including Nissan, Acura, Infiniti, Mercedes Benz, and Ford's Lincoln division have announced plans to build or have introduced versions of rugged, rough-terrain vehicles. The LX 450 mechanical platform was engineered to withstand sever usage in hostile conditions, although most owners will most likely never experience such driving conditions. Toyota launched its Lexus luxury division in August 1989. The permanently engaged, four-wheel drive, LX 450 is a dressed up version of Toyota's large Land Cruiser. Both have five doors. AT 73.6 inches high, these are some of the tallest people-moving SUV's on the road, providing excellent road visibility. However, getting in and out takes some maneuvering. It's a big step up from the ground to the seat. Adding side running boards, found on some bigger pickups and SUVs, would be a move in the right direction. With a wheelbase of 112.2 inches (distance between front and rear axle), overall length of 189.8 inches and width of 76 inches, it's larger than a Ford Explorer, but smaller than a GMC Suburban. The manufacturers suggested retail price of $47,500 (about $7,200 more than a Land Cruiser) includes a long list of standard items. The only options available are a six-unit CD changer ($1,050), a power moonroof ($1,250), and front/rear locking differentials ($900). Our test model included these three items along with carpeted floor mats. With the destination charge figured in, the bottom lined added up to $51,307. The comfortable, leather interior is the same grade used in the flagship, LS 400 sedan. Climate controls are similar too. Fourteen buttons control direction and fan speed while a sliding lever regulates temperature. Automatic transmission is standard. The optional, multi-unit CD changer, located behind the center armrest, is easily accessible by front and middle row occupants. Fuel door and tail gate release levers are found under the dashboard. Cruse control operates from a right-side steering wheel lever. Headlights turn on from the left-hand side turn signal stalk while windshield wiper controls, including the rear arm, are found on a right-hand side stem. Another nice touch is a digital clock, separate from the stereo system, which is constantly illuminated. There are dashboard controls for monitoring rear-seating vent fan speed and a power antenna override. Head and leg room are plentiful. The LX 450 doesn't include steering-wheel mounted radio and temperature controls, usually an up-scale vehicle staple. Middle row seating, accommodating three riders comfortably, is very well designed and easy to maneuver. The two middle seat backs fold down , then the entire seat moves forward with little effort, opening up the multi-purpose rear area. LX 450 has a third row of seats, hard to find in the luxury sport utility segment. The two rear seats hook against the cargo area sides when storage is required, and easily retract down. For such a large vehicle, the LX 450 has a remarkably smooth ride and quiet interior. Large, power side-view mirrors also enhance road feedback. Powered by a 4.5-liter, six-cylinder, 121 horsepower engine, this luxury sport utility includes permanently engaged all-wheel drive, which distributes torque between front and real axles. Our optional, manual differential lock system improves traction, allowing drivers to manually lock the front axle, rear axle, center differential or all three when in low range. The transmission also includes a second "start" button, beneficial when cranking the vehicle in sand, mud, ice or snow. The full-sized spare tire is wisely stowed under the vehicle, near the rear. Some sport utilities mount spares on back of the tailgate, obstructing rear-view mirror perception. Retrieving the spare simply involves cranking it down with a jack handle. Maximum towing weight for the LX 450 is 5,000 lbs. If the $51,000 price tag doesn't faze you, neither will fueling costs. Coupled with rising gas prices, a 25.1 gallon tank and an estimated 13 miles per gallon city fuel economy(15 mpg highway), it works out to approximately $35 just to filler up. Our combined fuel mileage reading was even more disappointing. With 4,200 odometer miles, our LX 450 registered just 12 miles per gallon in combined driving. Lexus assembles LX 450 in Japan. |