Lexus LX Second generation (J100)
| 1998 to 2007 | |
|---|---|
 |
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| Overview | |
| Also called | Toyota Land Cruiser (J100) Toyota Land Cruiser Cygnus (J100) |
| Production | 1998–2007 |
| Model years | 1998–2007 |
| Designer | Hiroya Kitazumi |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 4.7 L 2UZ-FE V8 |
| Transmission | 4-speed A343F automatic 5-speed A750F automatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,850 mm (112.2 in) |
| Length | 4,890 mm (192.5 in) |
| Width | 1,941 mm (76.4 in) |
| Height | 1,849 mm (72.8 in) |
1998–2002
In the mid-1990s, work started on a Lexus variant of the Toyota Land Cruiser (J100), the LX (J100). The final design by Hiroya Kitazumi was approved in 1995, with updates by Kitazumi approved in 2001 and 2004. Testing was conducted from the mid-1990s till late 1997. In December 1997, the second generation LX 470 debuted at Los Angeles Auto Show, going on sale in the second quarter of 1998. It shared the floor plan and most body panels with the equivalent Land Cruiser, and differed in its front appearance and had a more luxurious interior. Exterior design differences included a quad-headlamp forward fascia with larger grille and different wheels. It was powered by a LEV-certified 4.7-liter V8 engine, which initially produced 172 kW (230 hp), later upgraded to 175 kW (235 hp), then 200 kW (268 hp). The final torque value was 445 N·m (328 lb·ft). It was rated to tow 2,900 kg (6,500 lb) with the tow package installed.
The front gained independent suspension, and the optional electronic locking front and rear differentials were dropped. Suspension included Adjustable Height Control (AHC) air suspension and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS). The AHC could raise the vehicle for off-roading and return to a normal driving height reducing the center of gravity and wind resistance. The lowest setting for when the vehicle was stopped allowed for easier entry, exit and loading. AVS alters shock absorber firmness in under 2.5 milliseconds at each wheel, individually selecting from a range of 64 settings depending on road conditions and driver input such as steering-wheel activity, braking and acceleration. The AVS system used a switch for the driver's preferences including "normal", "comfort" and "sport" modes.
A DVD-based navigation system, Nakamichi stereo with in-dash six-disc CD changer, electrochromic power folding side mirrors, and a smog sensor for the HVAC system were offered.For 2000 models, Vehicle Stability Control and brake assist were made standard.
2002–2005
Night View infrared camera safety system was offered as an option in 2002, the world's first active automotive night vision system, projecting information on the windshield using a head-up display; the driver could vary brightness using a dimmer knob. The 2003 LX 470 came with Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) system, varying steering ratios from 12.4 to 1 to 18.0 to 1 (previously fixed at 19.8 to 1), allowing the driver to apply less steering input to maneuver in tight places such as parking lots. By changing the ratio on the highway, minor adjustments made by the driver would not create excessive vehicular movement.
During 2002 for the 2003 model year, Lexus introduced minor tweaks to the interior and exterior, including larger standard 18" wheels, replacing the 4-speed automatic with a 5-speed, and increasing power from 172 kW (230 hp) to 175 kW (235 hp). The updated engine now met CARB ULEV-II emission standards. Lexus added front row side torso airbags and side curtain airbags, electronic brakeforce distribution and rain-sensing windshield wipers as standard. An 11-speaker Mark Levinson premium sound system and a DVD Rear-Seat Entertainment System (RSES) were made optional. Other new features included Lexus Link, an emergency service similar to GM's Onstar, in North America.
In 2003 for the 2004 model year, Bluetooth became optional and a backup camera came with the navigation system.
2005–2007
In 2005 for the 2006 model year, a refresher included LED tail lamps, adding VVT-i to the engine and increasing its power to 205 kilowatts (275 hp). During 2006, for the final model year, 2007, Lexus produced 400 "Limited Edition" LX 470s with Black Onyx paint, stone leather interior, and specialized badging and scuff plates.
Several awards were made for the J100 series:
- The LX 470 was named by J.D. Power and Associates as the best luxury SUV in initial quality in 2000, 2002, and 2004.
- Kelley Blue Book gave the LX 470 its Best to Hold Value Award in 1998, 1999, and 2000.
- In a 2000 Edmunds.com comparison with four other premium SUVs, the LX 470 took first place.
- In a 2003 Edmunds.com comparison, the LX 470's Mark Levinson audio system and navigation system were the highest rated in their respective categories.
- In 2005, J.D. Power named the LX 470 the most reliable luxury SUV over a three-year period in its Vehicle Dependability Study.
