The 2013 Lexus LX 570 is a flagship full-size luxury SUV that serves as the refined counterpart to the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser 200 series. It combines genuine body-on-frame off-road durability with a sophisticated 383-horsepower V8 engine, advanced hydraulic suspension, and a refreshed "spindle grille" design that defined the brand’s aesthetic for a decade.
Thirteen years after its initial release, the 2013 LX 570 remains a highly coveted vehicle on the pre-owned market in 2026. Its enduring popularity is rooted in a rare combination of mechanical over-engineering and high-tier comfort. While many contemporary luxury SUVs have transitioned to unibody constructions and turbocharged small-displacement engines, the 2013 LX 570 stands as a testament to the "excessive reliability" era of Lexus manufacturing. This overview examines the technical specifications, interior refinements, off-road capabilities, and long-term ownership considerations of this pivotal model year.
The 2013 Refresh: Aesthetics and Identity
The 2013 model year marked a significant mid-cycle refresh for the third-generation LX (URJ201). This update was more than cosmetic; it was the moment the LX adopted the "spindle grille" signature, aligning it with the then-new GS sedan and the evolving Lexus design language.
Exterior Design Language
The most striking change for 2013 was the front fascia. Designers replaced the understated horizontal slats of the 2012 model with a bold, pinched-waist grille. This was complemented by new LED daytime running lights (DRLs) and larger fog lamp housings. The updated HID (High-Intensity Discharge) headlamps were integrated into a more aggressive housing, giving the SUV a modernized presence that has aged remarkably well.
Beyond the front end, the 2013 update included new 20-inch alloy wheels with a five-spoke design, updated side moldings, and redesigned rear bumpers. The taillights were also revised with a more contemporary lens pattern. These changes helped distinguish the LX 570 from its Toyota sibling, emphasizing its status as a premium luxury vessel rather than just a rugged utility vehicle.
Interior Craftsmanship and Layout
Inside, the 2013 LX 570 received subtle but impactful upgrades. A new "Easy Access" system was introduced, which automatically retracts the steering wheel and slides the driver’s seat back when the ignition is turned off, facilitating easier ingress and egress. The interior materials were upgraded to include more genuine mahogany wood trim and semi-aniline leather seating surfaces.
The dashboard layout remained traditional, prioritizing physical buttons and knobs over the complex touch-screen interfaces that would dominate later years. For many drivers in 2026, this tactile interface is preferred for its ease of use while driving. The instrument cluster was also updated with a more legible multi-information display, providing better feedback on the vehicle’s various off-road systems and fuel economy.
Mechanical Prowess: Engine and Drivetrain
At the heart of the 2013 LX 570 is the 3UR-FE engine, a 5.7-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine is renowned for its longevity and smooth power delivery, though it is notoriously thirsty for fuel.
Performance Specifications
The V8 produces 383 horsepower and 403 lb-ft of torque. Approximately 90% of that peak torque is available at just 2,200 RPM, which is critical for both towing and navigating technical off-road terrain. Power is sent through a six-speed sequential-shift automatic transmission. While later models moved to an eight-speed unit, the six-speed in the 2013 model is often praised for its robustness and lack of "gear hunting" when under load.
The 2013 LX 570 utilizes a full-time four-wheel-drive system with a Torsen limited-slip center differential. Under normal driving conditions, the system distributes power in a 40:60 front-to-rear ratio. When wheel slip is detected, the differential can automatically shift power to the wheels with the most grip. For extreme conditions, the center differential can be manually locked via a button on the console.
Towing and Utility
The heavy-duty nature of the LX 570’s frame allows for a maximum towing capacity of 7,000 pounds. This is supported by an integrated Class IV towing hitch receiver. The vehicle’s heavy curb weight (approximately 6,000 lbs) provides a stable platform for pulling trailers, though the fuel economy will drop significantly below its already modest EPA ratings when under such a load.
Advanced Suspension and Off-Road Technology
The LX 570 is distinguished from almost every other luxury SUV of its era by its sophisticated hydraulic suspension system, known as Active Height Control (AHC) and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS).
Active Height Control (AHC)
Unlike air suspension systems used by competitors, the Lexus AHC system uses hydraulic fluid to adjust the vehicle's ride height. It offers three primary settings:
- Normal: The standard height for everyday driving.
- High: Raises the vehicle by approximately 2.4 inches in the front and 2.8 inches in the rear to clear obstacles.
- Extra High: Automatically triggered if the vehicle gets hung up in 4L (Low range), providing even more clearance.
- Low: Lowers the vehicle by about 2 inches to assist with loading cargo or passengers.
Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS)
The AVS system continuously monitors road conditions and adjusts the shock absorber damping at each wheel independently. Drivers can select between "Comfort," "Normal," and "Sport" modes. This allows the LX 570 to mask its truck-based origins, providing a ride quality that mimics a luxury sedan on the highway while remaining composed on washboard gravel roads.
Off-Road Driver Aids
The 2013 model benefited from the latest iteration of Lexus’s off-road tech suite:
- Crawl Control: Effectively an off-road cruise control. The driver selects a speed (1–5 mph), and the vehicle manages throttle and braking at each individual wheel to maintain momentum over rocks or through deep sand.
- Turn Assist: When Crawl Control is active, this feature brakes the inside rear wheel to significantly tighten the vehicle's turning radius—an essential tool for maneuvering a massive SUV on tight trails.
- Multi-terrain Select: Allows the driver to choose between different terrain types (Rock, Rock & Dirt, Mogul, Loose Rock, or Mud & Sand), which optimizes the Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) for that specific surface.
Technical Specifications and Dimensions
The following table summarizes the key technical data for the 2013 Lexus LX 570.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5.7L V8 (3UR-FE) |
| Horsepower | 383 hp @ 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 403 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed Sequential-Shift Automatic |
| Drive System | Full-time 4WD with Torsen Center Differential |
| 0–60 MPH | ~7.5 Seconds |
| Towing Capacity | 7,000 lbs |
| Fuel Economy | 12 City / 17 Highway / 14 Combined (MPG) |
| Curb Weight | 6,000 lbs |
| Ground Clearance | 8.9 inches (Standard Height) |
| Seating Capacity | 8 Passengers |
Infotainment and Safety Features
In 2013, the LX 570 was a leader in cabin technology, though by 2026 standards, the interface feels nostalgic. The centerpiece is the Lexus Navigation System with an 8-inch high-resolution VGA display.
Entertainment and Connectivity
The 2013 model was among the first to feature Lexus Enform 2.0, which included the App Suite. This allowed users to access Bing search, Pandora, and iHeartRadio through a connected smartphone. One of the most sought-after options for this year was the Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound Audio System. This 19-speaker, 450-watt system remains one of the finest audio experiences ever put into a vehicle, utilizing a 7.1-channel architecture to provide studio-quality sound.
Rear-seat passengers were not overlooked. The available Dual-screen Rear Seat Entertainment System allowed for two different video sources to be played simultaneously on 7-inch screens mounted behind the front headrests.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The 2013 LX 570 was equipped with 10 standard airbags, including knee airbags for the driver and front passenger, and side-curtain airbags for all three rows. Standard safety features included:
- Pre-Collision System (PCS): Uses radar to detect an impending frontal collision and can retract front seatbelts and initialize Brake Assist.
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Intuitive Park Assist: Uses ultrasonic sensors to detect obstacles while parking.
- Wide-view Front and Side Monitor: Utilizes cameras in the grille and under the passenger-side mirror to help the driver see blind spots or trail obstacles.
Information regarding official crash test ratings and safety recalls for the 2013 model year can be verified through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Long-Term Reliability and 2026 Market Value
As of 2026, the 2013 Lexus LX 570 has cemented its reputation as one of the most reliable vehicles ever manufactured. However, potential owners must be aware of specific maintenance requirements that come with a vehicle of this complexity.
Common Maintenance Considerations
- AHC System Service: The hydraulic fluid for the Active Height Control should be changed every 60,000 miles. Neglecting this can lead to the failure of the globes (accumulators) or the pump, which are expensive to replace.
- Valley Plate Leaks: A known issue on the 5.7L V8 involves a coolant leak from the valley plate under the intake manifold. While not a "catastrophic" failure, it is a labor-intensive repair that typically occurs between 100,000 and 150,000 miles.
- Fuel Consumption: This is the primary "cost" of ownership. The LX 570 requires premium fuel and delivers low double-digit mileage. For many owners, this is a trade-off for the vehicle’s bulletproof mechanicals.
Why Buy a 2013 LX 570 Today?
In 2026, the LX 570 is often purchased as a "forever vehicle." It is one of the few luxury SUVs capable of exceeding 300,000 miles with only routine maintenance. It offers a level of mechanical "honesty" that is increasingly difficult to find. For those who live in regions with harsh winters or who enjoy overland camping, the LX 570’s ability to transition from a black-tie event to a remote mountain trail is unmatched.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2013 Lexus LX 570 require premium gasoline?
Yes, Lexus recommends using 91 octane (premium) unleaded fuel for the 5.7L V8 engine. While the engine's computer can adjust for lower octane fuel in emergencies, using regular gasoline long-term can result in reduced power output and potential engine knocking under heavy loads.
How does the LX 570 differ from the Toyota Land Cruiser of the same year?
Mechanically, they are nearly identical, sharing the same frame, engine, and 4WD system. However, the LX 570 features the hydraulic Active Height Control (AHC) suspension, whereas the U.S.-spec 2013 Land Cruiser used a traditional coil-spring setup with KDSS (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System). The Lexus also offers a much higher grade of interior leather, the Mark Levinson audio option, and more extensive sound-deadening materials.
Can the third-row seats be removed?
The third-row seats in the 2013 LX 570 do not fold into the floor. Instead, they fold up against the sides of the cargo area. While they can be physically removed using basic hand tools, they are not designed for quick "click-and-remove" operation like some modern minivans or SUVs. Removing them provides a significant increase in usable cargo width.
Is the 2013 model year better than the 2016 facelift?
The 2016 facelift introduced an 8-speed transmission and a much larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen. However, many enthusiasts prefer the 2013–2015 "mid-period" models because the 6-speed transmission is perceived as slightly more durable for heavy towing, and the dashboard still utilizes more physical buttons, which are easier to operate in rugged conditions.
What is the maximum ground clearance of the 2013 LX 570?
In its standard setting, the LX 570 has approximately 8.9 inches of ground clearance. When the Active Height Control is set to "High," the front rises by 2.4 inches and the rear by 2.8 inches, bringing the total clearance to over 11 inches.
Final Recommendation
For buyers in 2026 looking for a vehicle that prioritizes durability and comfort over the latest digital gimmicks, the 2013 Lexus LX 570 is a superlative choice. Before purchasing, ensure the AHC system has been properly serviced and check for the common valley plate coolant leak. A well-maintained 2013 LX 570 is not just a used car; it is a long-term investment in mechanical excellence.
