Car Seat Capacity: Second and Third Row Analysis
As a full-size luxury SUV, the LX 570 offers substantial interior space with seating for up to eight passengers. Our rigorous testing reveals both strengths and limitations in its child safety seat accommodations.
Second Row Performance
The LX 570's second row shines with its ability to accommodate three child safety seats simultaneously - a rare feat even among large SUVs. This configuration works particularly well with:
- Two outboard seats using the Latch system
- Center position using the vehicle's seat belt
- Proper spacing between seats for independent
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Third Row Limitations
While the third row provides additional seating, it presents significant challenges for child safety:
- No lower Latch anchors - common in many SUVs
- Missing tether anchors - unusual omission for this class
- Only booster seats can be safely installed
- Restricted to older children or adults
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2014 Lexus LX 570 Child Safety: Key Findings
What We Liked
- Three-seat second row capacity: Successfully fits infant, convertible, and booster seats simultaneously
- Accessible Latch system: Well-marked lower anchors with leather covers that flip back easily
- Clear tether anchors: Mid-seatback placement simplifies forward-facing installation
- Booster compatibility: Works well in both second and third rows (despite floppy buckles)
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What Could Be Improved
- Third row restrictions: Lack of tether anchors limits safety options
- Entertainment system interference: Rear screens reduce space for rear-facing seats
- Third-row access: Tight passage makes regular use impractical
- Buckle design: Floppy third-row seat belts challenge independent child use
Detailed Installation Experience
Our certified technicians conducted multiple installation scenarios to evaluate real-world usability:
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Second Row Configurations
The LX 570 performed admirably in our standard three-seat test:
- Outboard positions: Graco SnugRide 30 (infant) and Britax Roundabout (convertible) installed securely
- Center position: Graco TurboBooster fit well with proper belt routing
- Driver comfort: No need to adjust front seats for proper installation
Third Row Realities
Without tether anchors, our options were limited:
- Only the booster seat could be properly secured
- Forward-facing convertible required seat belt installation only
- Significant space reduction when using rear entertainment screens
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Child Safety Rating System
We evaluate vehicles using a comprehensive grading scale:
- A: Excellent room and accessibility with no installation issues
- B: Good overall with minor connection or access challenges
- C: Acceptable but with multiple fit or access difficulties
- D: Marginal performance with significant limitations
- F: Unsafe or completely incompatible
2014 Lexus LX 570 Overall Grade: B
The LX 570 earns strong marks for second-row performance but loses points for third-row limitations and entertainment system interference.
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Expert Installation Tips
Based on our testing, we recommend these installation strategies:
For Rear-Facing Seats
- Position seats behind the driver when possible to maximize front passenger space
- Consider disabling rear entertainment screens when not in use
- Use angle indicators to ensure proper recline
For Forward-Facing Seats
- Always use available tether anchors in the second row
- Check for proper harness height at or above shoulders
- Ensure less than 1" of movement at the belt path
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For Booster Seats
- Teach children proper buckling technique for floppy third-row belts
- Consider high-back boosters for better belt positioning
- Regularly check for proper lap belt placement
Family-Friendly Features Beyond Car Seats
While child safety is paramount, the LX 570 offers other family-oriented benefits:
- Cabin quietness: Reduced road noise for peaceful
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- Climate control: Four-zone system maintains comfort throughout
- Cargo space: 83.1 cubic feet maximum with seats folded
- Towing capacity: 7,000 lbs for family toys or trailers