Driving information

Utility vehicle precautions

This vehicle belongs to the utility vehicle class, which has higher ground
clearance and narrower tread in relation to the height of its center of gravity.

Utility vehicle feature

Specific design characteristics give it a higher center of gravity than
ordinary passenger cars. This vehicle design feature causes this type of
vehicle to be more likely to rollover. And, utility vehicles have a significantly
higher rollover rate than other types of vehicles.
It is not designed for cornering at the same speeds as ordinary passenger
cars any more than low-slung sports cars designed to perform satisfactorily
under off-road conditions. Therefore, sharp turns at
excessive speeds may cause rollover.

Off-road driving

Your vehicle is not designed to be driven off-road. However, in the event
that off-road driving cannot be avoided, please observe the following
precautions to help avoid the areas prohibited to vehicles.
Drive your vehicle only in areas where off-road vehicles are permitted
to travel.
Respect private property. Get owner’s permission before entering private
property.
Do not enter areas that are closed. Honor gates, barriers and signs
that restrict travel.
Stay on established roads. When conditions are wet, driving techniques
should be changed or travel delayed to prevent damage to
roads.
Avoid driving on very steep, slippery roads and other surfaces, such as
sand, where the tires are liable to lose traction. Your vehicle may not
perform as well as conventional AWD on-road vehicles on these surfaces.

Additional information for off-road driving

- For owners in U.S. mainland, Hawaii and Puerto Rico:
To obtain additional information pertaining to driving your vehicle off-road, consult
the following organizations.
State and Local Parks and Recreation Departments.
State Motor Vehicle Bureau.
Recreational Vehicle Clubs.
U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management.

NOTICE:
To prevent the water damage
Take all necessary safety measures to ensure that water damage to the hybrid battery,
hybrid system or other components does not occur.
Water entering the engine compartment may cause severe damage to the hybrid
system. Water entering the interior may cause the hybrid battery stowed under
the rear seats to short circuit.
Water entering the hybrid transmission will cause deterioration in transmission
quality. The malfunction indicator may come on, and the vehicle may not be drivable.
Water can wash the grease from wheel bearings, causing rusting and premature
failure, and may also enter the hybrid transmission case, reducing the gear oil’s
lubricating qualities.

NOTICE:
When you drive through water
If driving through water, such as when crossing shallow streams, first check the
depth of the water and the bottom of the riverbed for firmness. Drive slowly and
avoid deep water.
Inspection after off-road driving
Sand and mud that has accumulated in brake drums and around brake discs may
affect braking efficiency and may damage brake system components.
Always perform a maintenance inspection after each day of off-road driving that
has taken you through rough terrain, sand, mud, or water. For scheduled maintenance
information, refer to the “Warranty and Services Guide/Owner’s Manual
Supplement/Scheduled Maintenance”.

Cargo and luggage

Take notice of the following information about storage precautions, cargo
capacity and load.

l Stow cargo and luggage in the luggage compartment whenever
possible.
Be sure all items are secured in place.
Be careful to keep the vehicle level. Placing the weight as far forward
as possible helps maintain vehicle balance.
For better fuel economy, do not carry unnecessary weight.

Capacity and distribution

Cargo capacity depends on the total weight of the occupants.
(Cargo capacity) = (Total load capacity) — (Total weight of occupants)

Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit

(1) Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo
should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your vehicle’s placard.
(2)Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will
be riding in your vehicle.
(3)Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from
XXX kg or XXX lbs.
(4)The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage
load capacity.
For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs. and there will be
five 150 lb. passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo
and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. (1400 − 750 (5 × 150) = 650
lbs.)
(5)Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded
on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo
and luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4.
(6)If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be
transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this
reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle.

Example based on your vehicle

1. Cargo capacity.
2. Total load capacity.

When 2 people with the combined weight of 366 lb. (166 kg) are riding
in your vehicle, which has a total load capacity of 825 lb. (370 kg), the
available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity will be as follows:
825 lb. — 366 lb. = 459 lb. (370 kg —166 kg = 204 kg)
In this condition, if 3 more passengers with the combined weight of 388 lb.
(176 kg) get on, the available cargo and luggage load will be reduced as follows:
459 lb. — 388 lb. = 71 lb. (204 kg — 176 kg = 28 kg)
As shown in the example above, if the number of occupants increases,
the cargo and luggage load will be reduced by an amount that equals the
increased weight due to the additional occupants. In other words, if an
increase in the number of occupants causes an excess of the total load
capacity (combined weight of occupants plus cargo and luggage load),
you must reduce the cargo and luggage on your vehicle.

l Place the cargo so that its weight is distributed
evenly between the front and rear
axles.
If loading long or wide cargo, never exceed
the vehicle’s overall length or width.
Before driving, make sure the cargo is securely fastened on the roof luggage carrier.
Loading cargo on the roof luggage carrier will make the center of gravity of the
vehicle higher. Avoid high speeds, sudden starts, sharp turns, sudden braking or
abrupt maneuvers, otherwise the result may be a loss of control or vehicle rollover
due to failure to operate this vehicle correctly and result in death or serious
injury.
If driving for long distances, on rough roads, or at high speeds, stop the vehicle
now and then during the trip to make sure the cargo remains in its place.
Do not exceed 165 lb. (75 kg) cargo weight on the roof luggage carrier.

NOTICE:
When loading cargo
Be careful not to scratch the surface of the moon roof.

Vehicle load limits

Vehicle load limits include total load capacity, seating capacity, towing
capacity and cargo capacity.

Total load capacity: 825 lb. (370 kg)

Total load capacity means the combined weight of occupants, cargo and
luggage.

Seating capacity: 5 occupants (Front 2, Rear 3)

Seating capacity means the maximum number of occupants whose estimated
average weight is 150 lb. (68 kg) per person.

Towing capacity (2WD models and AWD models without towing
package)

Lexus does not recommend towing a trailer with your vehicle.

Towing capacity (AWD models with towing package)
3500 lb. (1588 kg)

Towing capacity means the maximum gross trailer weight (trailer weight
plus its cargo weight) that your vehicle is able to tow.

Cargo capacity

Cargo capacity may increase or decrease depending on the weight and
the number of occupants.

Total load capacity and seating capacity

These details are also described on the tire and loading information label.

Winter driving tips

Carry out the necessary preparations and inspections before driving the
vehicle in winter. Always drive the vehicle in a manner appropriate to the
prevailing weather conditions.

Pre-winter preparations

Use fluids that are appropriate to the prevailing outside temperatures.
• Engine oil.
• Engine/power control unit coolant.
• Washer fluid.
Have the vehicle fitted with four snow tires or purchase a set of
tire chains for the front tires.
Ensure that all tires are the same size and brand, and that chains match
the size of the tires.

Before driving the vehicle

Perform the following according to the driving conditions:
Do not try to forcibly open a window or move a wiper that is frozen.
Pour warm water over the frozen area to melt the ice. Wipe
away the water immediately to prevent it from freezing.
To ensure proper operation of the climate control system fan,
remove any snow that has accumulated on the air inlet vents in
front of the windshield.
Remove any ice that has accumulated on the vehicle chassis.
Periodically check for and remove any excess ice or snow that
may have accumulated in the wheel well or on the brakes.

When driving the vehicle

Accelerate the vehicle slowly and drive at a reduced speed suitable to the
road conditions.

When parking the vehicle

Park the vehicle and move the shift lever to P and block the wheel
under the vehicle without setting the parking brake. The parking
brake may freeze up, preventing it from being released. If necessary,
block the wheels to prevent inadvertent sliding or creeping.

Selecting tire chains

Use the correct tire chain size when mounting the tire chains. Chain size
is regulated for each tire size.

Side chain:
1. 0.12 in. (3 mm) in diameter.
2. 0.98 in. (25 mm) in length.
3. 0.43 in. (10.8 mm) in width.
Cross chain:
4. 0.15 in. (3.9 mm) in diameter.
5. 1.00 in. (25.3 mm) in length.
6. 0.54 in. (13.8 mm) in width.

Regulations on the use of tire chains

Regulations regarding the use of tire chains vary depending on location
and type of road. Always check local regulations before installing chains.

Tire chain installation

Observe the following precautions when installing and removing chains:
Install and remove tire chains in a safe location.
Install tire chains on the front tires only. Do not install tire chains on the rear tires.
Install the tire chains on front tires as tightly as possible. Retighten chains after
driving 1/4 ⎯ 1/2 mile (0.5 ⎯ 1.0 km).
Install tire chains following the instructions provided with the tire chains.

NOTICE:
Repairing or replacing snow tires
Request repairs or replacement of snow tires from Lexus dealers or legitimate tire
retailers.
This is because the removal and attachment of snow tires affects the operation of
the tire pressure warning valves and transmitters.
Fitting tire chains
The tire pressure warning valves and transmitters may not function correctly when
tire chains are fitted.

Trailer towing (AWD models with towing package)

Your vehicle is designed primarily as a passenger-and-load carrying vehicle.
Towing a trailer will have an adverse effect on handling, performance,
braking, durability, and fuel consumption. For your safety and the safety of
others, do not overload the vehicle or trailer.
To tow a trailer safely, use extreme care and drive the vehicle in accordance
with the trailer's characteristics and operating conditions.
The vehicle stability and braking performance are affected by trailer stability,
brake setting and performance, and the hitch.
Lexus warranties do not apply to damage or malfunction caused by towing
a trailer for commercial purposes.

Contact your Lexus dealer for further information about additional
requirements such as a towing kit etc.

Weight limits

Confirm that the gross trailer weight, gross vehicle weight, gross axle
weight and trailer tongue load are all within the limits.
The gross trailer weight must never exceed the following:
3500lb. (1588kg).
The gross combined weight must never exceed the following:
9480lb. (4297kg).

The gross vehicle weight must
never exceed the GVWR indicated
on the Certification Label.
The gross axle weight on each
axle must never exceed the
GAWR indicated on the Certification
Label.

Towing related term

Trailer tongue load

A recommended tongue load varies in accordance with the types of
trailers or towing as described below.
In order to ensure the recommended values shown below, the trailer
must be loaded by referring to the following instructions.
The trailer cargo load should be distributed so that the tongue load is 9
to 11% of the gross trailer weight, not exceeding 350 lb. (158 kg).
(Tongue load / Gross trailer weight x 100 = 9 to 11%).
If the gross trailer weight is over 2000 lbs. (900 kg), it is necessary to
use a sway control device with sufficient capacity.
The gross trailer weight and tongue load can be measured with platform
scales found at a highway weighing station, building supply company,
trucking company, junk yard, etc.

1. Gross trailer weight.
2. Tongue load.

Hitch and tow hitch receiver

Hitch

Trailer hitch assemblies have different weight capacities established by
the hitch manufacturer. Even though the vehicle may be rated for towing
a higher weight, the operator must never exceed the maximum
weight rating specified for the trailer hitch.

Tow hitch receiver (if equipped)

A tow hitch receiver installed
under the rear bumper is rated for
weight that does not exceed the
vehicle's total towing weight.

Selecting a trailer ball

Use the correct trailer ball for your application.

1. Trailer ball load rating.
Matches or exceeds the gross
trailer weight rating of the trailer.
2. Ball diameter.
Matches the size of the trailer coupler.
Most couplers are stamped
with the required trailer ball size.
3. Shank length.
Protrudes beyond the bottom of
the lock washer and nut at least 2
threads.
4. Shank diameter.
Matches the ball mount hole diameter
size.

Connecting trailer lights

Without towing package: Please consult your dealer when installing
trailer lights, as incorrect installation may cause damage to the vehicle's
lights. Please take care to comply with your state's laws when installing
trailer lights.
With towing package: Use the 4 pin connector located under the rear
bumper.

Auto current cut-off function (vehicles with towing package)

In case of over current, the auto cut-off function stops the power flowing to the
trailer lights to prevent damage to the vehicle's electrical system.
This function is activated when the rated current of any of the following trailer light
circuit components is exceeded:
Tail lights: maximum 7.8 A.
Stop/turn signal light (right): maximum 4.5 A.
Stop/turn signal light (left): maximum 4.5 A.

When the auto current cut-off function is activated

If a trailer light does not come on due to the activation of the auto current cut-off
function, the light system will need to be reset.
Follow the reset procedure shown below.
If a tail light does not come on, turn off the headlight switch.
If the right-side stop/turn signal light does not come on, put the turn signal in the
off position or remove foot from the brake pedal.
If the left-side stop/turn signal light does not come on, put the turn signal in the
off position or remove foot from the brake pedal.
If the emergency flashers do not operate, press the emergency flasher switch to
turn them off.
After the light system is reset, operate the light switches again to see if the lights
operate normally.
If the lights do not operate normally, have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus
dealer.

Trailer towing tips

Your vehicle will handle differently when towing a trailer. The 3 main
causes of vehicle-trailer accidents are driver error, excessive speed and
improper trailer loading. Keep the following in mind when towing:
Before starting out, check the trailer lights and the vehicle-trailer connections.
Recheck after driving a short distance.
Practice turning, stopping and reversing with the trailer attached in an
area away from traffic until you become accustomed to the feel of the
vehicle.
Reversing with a trailer attached is difficult and requires practice. Grip
the bottom of the steering wheel and move your hand to the left to
move the trailer to the left. Move your hand to the right to move the
trailer to right. (This is generally opposite to reversing without a trailer
attached.) Avoid sharp or prolonged turning. Have someone guide
you when reversing to reduce the risk of an accident.
As stopping distance is increased when towing a trailer, vehicle-tovehicle
distance should be increased. For each 16 km/h of
speed, allow at least one vehicle and trailer length.
Avoid sudden braking as you may skid, resulting in jackknifing and loss
of control. This is especially true on wet or slippery surfaces.
Avoid jerky starts or sudden acceleration.
Avoid jerky steering and sharp turns, and slow down before making
turns.
Note that when making a turn, the trailer wheels will be closer than the
vehicle wheels to the inside of the turn. Compensate by making a
larger than normal turning radius.

Crosswinds and rough roads will adversely affect handling of your
vehicle and trailer, causing sway. Periodically check the rear to prepare
for being passed by large trucks or buses, which may cause your vehicle
and trailer to sway. If swaying occurs, firmly grip the steering wheel,
reduce speed immediately but gradually, and steer straight ahead.
Never increase speed. If you make no extreme correction with the
steering or brakes, your vehicle and trailer will stabilize.
Take care when passing other vehicles. Passing requires considerable
distance. After passing a vehicle, do not forget the length of your
trailer, and be sure you have plenty of room before changing lanes.
In order to maintain engine braking efficiency when driving on a long
steep downgrade, do not use overdrive. Hybrid transmission shift
range position must be in 4 in S mode.
Due to the added load of the trailer, your vehicle's hybrid system may
overheat on hot days (at temperatures over 85°F [30 °C]) when driving
up a long or steep grade. If the engine coolant temperature gauge
indicates overheating, immediately turn off the air conditioning (if in
use), pull your vehicle off the road and stop in a safe spot.
Always place wheel blocks under both the vehicle and the trailer
wheels when parking. Apply the parking brake firmly, and put the
hybrid transmission in P. Avoid parking on a slope, but if unavoidable,
do so only after performing the following:
1. Apply the brakes and keep them applied.
2. Have someone place wheel blocks under both the vehicle and
trailer wheels.
3. When the wheel blocks are in place, release the brakes slowly
until the blocks absorb the load.
4. Apply the parking brake firmly.
5. Shift into P and turn off the hybrid system.

When restarting after parking on a slope:
1. With the hybrid transmission in the P position, start the hybrid system.
Be sure to keep the brake pedal depressed.
2. Shift into 3, 2, 1, or the R position (if reversing).
3. Release the parking brake and brake pedal, and slowly pull or
back away from the wheel blocks. Stop and apply the brakes.
4. Have someone retrieve the blocks.

When connecting and disconnecting a trailer (vehicles with electrically modulated
air suspension)

Connecting.
1. Set the electronically modulated air suspension to LO mode.
2. Press the height control off button to turn off the electronically modulated
air suspension.
3. Turn off the “POWER” switch.
4. Connect the trailer.
5. Turn on the “POWER” switch.
6. Press the height control off button again to turn on the electronically modulated
air suspension.
7. Set the electronically modulated air suspension to N mode.
Disconnecting.
1. Set the electronically modulated air suspension to LO mode.
2. Press the height control off button to turn off the electronically modulated
air suspension.
3. Turn off the “POWER” switch.
4. Set the supporting leg of the trailer on the ground and raise the hitch by 4
in. (100 mm)
5. Turn on the “POWER” switch.
6. Press the height control off button again to turn on the electronically modulated
air suspension.
7. Wait until vehicle height is stabilized.
Make sure the hitch is disconnected. If the hitch does not disconnect, raise the hitch
higher and repeat steps 2 through 7.

Before towing

Check that the following conditions are met:
The vehicle's tires are properly inflated.
Trailer tires are inflated according to the trailer manufacturer's recommendation.
All trailer lights work.
All lights work each time you connect them.
The vehicle remains level when a loaded or unloaded trailer is hitched. Do not
drive if the vehicle is not level, and check for improper tongue load, overloading,
worn suspension, or other possible causes.
The trailer cargo is securely loaded.
The rear view mirrors conform to all applicable federal, state/provincial or local
regulations. If they do not, install rear view mirrors appropriate for towing purposes.

Break-in schedule

If your vehicle is new or equipped with any new power train components (such as
an engine, hybrid transmission, and wheel bearings), Lexus recommends that you
do not tow a trailer until it has been driven for over 500 miles (800 km).
However, avoid full throttle acceleration.

Maintenance

If you tow a trailer, your vehicle will require more frequent maintenance due to
the additional load. (See “Warranty and Services Guide”, “Owner's Manual Supplement”
or “Scheduled Maintenance”.)
Retighten the fixing bolts of the towing ball and bracket after approximately 600
miles (1000 km) of trailer towing.

NOTICE:
When installing a trailer hitch
Use only the position recommended by your Lexus dealer. Do not install the
trailer hitch on the bumper; this may cause body damage.
Do not use axle-mounted hitches, as they can cause damage to the axle housing,
wheel bearings, wheels or tires.
Safety chain
A safety chain must always be used between the towing vehicle and the trailer.
Leave sufficient slack in the chain for turns. The chain should cross under the trailer
tongue to prevent the tongue from dropping to the ground in the case that it
becomes damaged or separated. For the correct safety chain installation procedure,
ask your Lexus dealer.
Do not directly splice trailer lights
Directly splicing trailer lights may damage your vehicle's electrical system and
cause a malfunction.

Trailer towing (2WD models and AWD models without towing package)

Lexus does not recommend towing a trailer with your vehicle. Lexus also
does not recommend the installation of a tow hitch or the use of a tow hitch
carrier for a wheelchair, scooter, bicycle, etc. Your vehicle is not designed
for trailer towing or for the use of tow hitch mounted carriers.

Dinghy towing

Your vehicle is not designed to be dinghy towed (with 4 wheels on the
ground) behind a motor home.

NOTICE:
To avoid serious damage to your vehicle
Do not tow your vehicle with four wheels on the ground.