
The Lexus LX570 is a powerful SUV with a towing capacity of 7,000 pounds for models from 2011-2021, and 8,500 pounds for models from 2008-2010. This makes it a great option for those looking to tow medium to large-sized trailers, including small travel trailers, fishing boat trailers, and jet ski trailers.
The LX570's impressive performance and stability when towing are due in part to its lusty 270kW 5.7-litre V8 engine and well-tuned suspension. Its large side mirrors also make towing easier, providing a good view of the trailer.
While the LX570's fuel consumption when towing is high, at around 26.5L/100km, its 138-litre fuel tank means it can tow for approximately 500km before needing to refuel.
Overall, the Lexus LX570 is a capable and comfortable tow vehicle, making it a popular choice for those looking to tow luxury trailers and campers.
What You'll Learn
Lexus LX570's towing capacity
The Lexus LX570 is a large SUV with a powerful 5.7-liter V8 engine, producing 383 horsepower and 403 lb-ft of torque. This gives the LX570 a towing capacity of 7,000 pounds, which is a downgrade from earlier models that could tow 8,500 pounds. This downgrade is due to the adoption of SAE J2807 A standards, which require tow ratings to be based on fully-equipped vehicles rather than stripped-back base models.
The LX570's hydraulic suspension system, which controls ride height and stiffness, also limits its towing capacity compared to similar vehicles like the Toyota Land Cruiser, which can tow 8,100 pounds. The LX570's suspension has three height settings and can be raised by up to three inches or lowered by two inches. When towing, it is recommended to use the \"Sport\" mode to improve stability, especially in windy conditions.
The LX570's towing capacity has been tested by owners, with reports of successful towing of trailers and campers weighing around 6,000 pounds. One owner reported towing a 28-foot camper with a dry weight of 6,200 pounds with no issues, maintaining speed limits on hills and stable handling on various road types.
While the LX570 has impressive towing capabilities, it is important to note that its short wheelbase and off-road-focused suspension can make it less stable when towing large trailers, especially enclosed trailers which act like "big sails in the wind." Additionally, the setup process for towing can be cumbersome, requiring the removal of a portion of the rear bumper cover to access the hitch.
Overall, the Lexus LX570 is a capable tow vehicle, but it may not be the best choice for those who frequently tow large, enclosed trailers. Its towing capacity of 7,000 pounds is suitable for a range of trailers and campers, and its powerful engine and adjustable suspension provide a smooth and stable towing experience.
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Camper weight considerations
When towing a camper, it's important to consider the weight of your vehicle, your passengers, your cargo, and your trailer. Here are some key weight considerations to keep in mind:
Vehicle Weight
Know your vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). This is the maximum allowable weight of your vehicle, including passengers, cargo, and the tongue weight of an attached trailer. The GVWR can usually be found on a sticker inside the driver's side door frame. Make sure that the combined weight of your vehicle, passengers, cargo, and trailer does not exceed the GVWR.
Camper Weight
The weight of your camper trailer is also crucial. Look for the manufacturer's weight rating, which is typically listed on a sticker or compliance plate. The weight of the camper should include the weight of fluids, passengers, and cargo. The dry weight of a camper is its weight without any liquids, passengers, or cargo, while the gross vehicle weight (GVW) includes these additional weights. The GVW of the camper should not exceed the GVWR of your vehicle.
Tongue Weight
The tongue weight is the weight placed on the hitch when the trailer is coupled to your vehicle. It is typically recommended to be between 10-15% of the RV's gross vehicle weight. A weight distribution hitch can help distribute the tongue weight more evenly and improve towing stability.
Towing Capacity
Ensure that your vehicle's towing capacity is greater than the weight of the camper trailer you intend to tow. The towing capacity is the maximum weight that your vehicle can safely tow and is determined by the vehicle manufacturer. It takes into account factors such as the vehicle's design, weight on the rear axle, and tire capacity.
Passenger and Cargo Weight
When calculating the total weight of your vehicle and trailer, don't forget to include the weight of your passengers and cargo. This includes items such as luggage, camping gear, and liquids. Allow for some extra weight to accommodate unexpected cargo or additional passengers.
Towing Package and Suspension Options
Consider the towing package and suspension options available for your vehicle. Look for features such as heavy-duty suspension packages, transmission oil coolers, upgraded shocks and sway bars, and trailer brake controllers. These options can enhance your vehicle's towing capacity and improve safety.
Axle Ratios
Axle ratios can impact your vehicle's towing performance. Taller axle ratios, such as 3.73 or 4.10, will have the engine revving higher and provide more torque and horsepower, which is beneficial for towing. Shorter axle ratios, like 3.15 or 3.29, will provide better fuel efficiency but may result in lower towing capacity.
Elevation and Driving Conditions
Keep in mind that elevation and driving conditions can affect your vehicle's performance when towing. Gas engines lose power as the elevation rises, so you may need to reduce the gross combined vehicle weight by 2% for every 1,000 feet above sea level. Additionally, driving on hilly, mountainous, or unpaved roads can reduce fuel economy.
Trailer Frontal Surface Area
The frontal surface area of the camper trailer also plays a role in towing. Larger trailers with sloping fronts or rounded corners can increase wind drag, affecting the towing performance of your vehicle. Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual to determine the maximum frontal surface area recommended for your trailer.
Water Weight
If your camper trailer includes water tanks, consider the weight of water. Water weighs 8 pounds per gallon, and a full water tank can significantly increase the weight of your trailer. Additionally, water can act as a "live load" while going down the road, affecting the balance and sway of the trailer.
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LX570's engine and performance
The Lexus LX570 is a powerful and capable full-size luxury SUV, well-suited for towing campers and trailers. Its engine and performance specifications contribute to its impressive capabilities.
Under the hood, the LX570 is equipped with a robust 5.7-litre 3UR-FE V8 engine, generating 270-286 kilowatts (362-383 horsepower) and 530-546 Newton-metres (403-409 pound-feet) of torque. This powerful engine is paired with a six-speed sequential-shift automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive gear changes. The LX570 also features an advanced all-new 4WD system with a Torsen centre differential, ensuring optimal traction and stability on various terrains.
The LX570's engine delivers impressive performance, with a 0-60 mph acceleration time of around 7.5 seconds and a top speed of approximately 149 mph. While the exact engine specifications vary slightly between model years, the LX570 consistently offers robust power and torque output.
One notable aspect of the LX570's performance is its impressive towing capacity. With a maximum towing capacity of up to 3,900 kilograms (8,500 pounds), it can easily handle towing campers, trailers, and other recreational vehicles. The LX570's robust engine and advanced transmission system contribute to its exceptional towing capabilities, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and need a reliable vehicle to tow their recreational vehicles.
Additionally, the LX570 is designed with a range of performance-enhancing features that improve its overall capabilities. For instance, the Crawl Control system assists in navigating off-road obstacles by automatically managing throttle and braking inputs, making it a breeze to drive on rough terrains. The multi-terrain anti-lock braking system ensures shorter stopping distances on various surfaces, providing added safety and control.
Furthermore, the LX570 offers a comfortable and luxurious driving experience. Its interior is equipped with amenities such as semi-aniline leather seats, a four-zone climate control system, and a premium Mark Levinson surround-sound stereo system. The vehicle also features a range of advanced driver-assistance systems, including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warnings, and a pre-collision safety system, enhancing overall safety and convenience.
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Camper setup and LX570's AHC
The Lexus LX570 is a popular car in the multi-purpose luxury SUV category, known for its off-road performance and towing capabilities. The latest generation of the Lexus LX 570 (2011-2021) has a maximum towing capacity of 7,000 pounds, while older models (2008-2010) can tow up to 8,500 pounds. This makes the LX570 a suitable option for towing various trailer types, including medium and large-sized trailers, as well as small travel trailers and jet ski trailers.
When it comes to camper setup and LX570s AHC (Active Height Control), there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, ensure that your camper's weight is within the towing capacity of your LX570 model. It is important to consider both the dry weight and the loaded weight of the camper, especially when dealing with large trailers.
Secondly, pay attention to the tongue weight or the weight exerted on the hitch by the trailer. A good weight distribution hitch, such as an equalizer hitch, can help distribute the weight evenly and improve stability. It is recommended to aim for a tongue weight of 10-15% of the trailer weight.
Thirdly, the LX570's AHC system can be a great advantage when towing. It can dynamically adjust the ride height, providing a more comfortable ride and improving stability. You can use the AHC to level your setup, especially when camping on uneven terrain. The AHC also allows for easier hitching and unhitching by adjusting the ride height to get the ball under the trailer.
Additionally, consider upgrading your side mirrors to extendable towing mirrors. This will improve visibility and make lane changes and maneuvering easier when towing.
Lastly, a brake controller is essential for safer towing, especially with larger trailers. It allows you to control the trailer brakes independently, providing better control and stability, especially when going downhill or in high winds.
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LX570 vs LandCruiser
The Lexus LX570 is a capable towing vehicle, with a capacity of 7,000 lbs. It is built on the same platform as the Land Cruiser and is rated to tow 7,000 lbs, although earlier models were rated at 8,500 lbs. The LX570 has a more prestigious marque and a higher initial MSRP, but often retails for less on the pre-owned market than comparable Land Cruisers. This is despite the LX570 having a more luxurious interior and a more comfortable ride due to its hydraulic Active Height Control (AHC) suspension system.
The Land Cruiser has a better image as an off-roader and is considered more capable in extreme off-road scenarios, although the difference in real-world usage is minimal. The Land Cruiser also has a higher tow rating than the LX570, which may be due to the added weight of the LX570's luxury features and AHC system. The Land Cruiser is also preferred by some for its steering feel, which may be related to its Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) and smaller wheels/taller tires.
The LX570's AHC system is well-liked by owners and is considered reliable if serviced regularly. However, some owners have reported issues with the AHC, particularly after 100k-150k miles, and it can be expensive to repair or replace. The AHC system is also more complex to diagnose and some Lexus dealers are reluctant to work on it. On the other hand, the KDSS system of the Land Cruiser is simpler and more robust, with fewer reported issues.
Overall, both vehicles are very similar, and the choice between the two comes down to personal preference. The LX570 offers more luxury and a more comfortable ride, while the Land Cruiser has a slight edge in off-road capability and tow rating. The Land Cruiser is also preferred by some for its steering feel and simpler suspension system.
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Frequently asked questions
The latest generation of the Lexus LX 570 (2011-2021) has a maximum towing capacity of 7,000 pounds. The older models (2008-2010) have an even higher towing capacity of 8,500 pounds.
Yes, the Lexus LX 570 can tow most medium and large-sized trailers. However, it is important to consider the weight of the trailer and ensure that it does not exceed the maximum towing capacity of the vehicle.
The Lexus LX 570 can tow various types of trailers, including kayak, jet ski, motorcycle, teardrop, small open utility, small enclosed utility, fishing boat, pop-up camper, and small travel trailers.
The towing capacity of the Lexus LX 570 is comparable to other luxury SUVs in the market. While some competitors offer higher towing capacities, such as the 2021 Infiniti QX80 with a capacity of 8,500 pounds, the LX 570 still performs well in this regard.
Overall, people have reported positive experiences towing with the Lexus LX 570. It has been described as a "great tow vehicle" and "splendidly" when towing trailers within its weight capacity. The LX 570's performance, stability, and maneuverability have been highlighted as strengths when towing.