rom rugged trail rigs to luxury cruisers, here are WHM’s top 5 vehicles from the 2025 Texas Truck Rodeo, plus honorable mentions.
Top 5 Favorite Rides From the 2025 Texas Truck Rodeo
Two Fords, Two Cities, Two Very Different Kinds of Fun With the 2025 Bronco Sport Badlands and Bronco Stroppe
A week across Dallas and Houston shows how the Bronco Sport Badlands handles real life while the Bronco Stroppe delivers pure fun.
Continue readingLexus LX 570 Test Drive Review
At the Off-road Invitational, an entire variety of vehicles was offered from different manufacturers. One SUV, in particular, I looked forward to jumping behind the wheel of was the 2019 Lexus LX 570. The many courses offered at General Sam’s Off-road Park gave us the ideal terrain to test the LX 570’s capabilities. The main course I drove on had many challenges, especially with the rain pouring down on us during this two-day event. However, from crawling out of muddy craters to climbing up hills, this luxury SUV was able to tackle everything in its way with ease. The full-time four-wheel-drive system with a TORSEN limited-slip center differential and manual locking was a much-needed feature. Another great feature was the under-vehicle camera that showed not just what was up ahead but also what the front of the vehicle was approaching, so you were never surprised at the obstacle ahead.
If you are looking for an SUV associated with outdoor recreation and off-road with luxury, look no further than to the 2019 Lexus LX 570. The newest facelift continues its elegant and sophisticated look with a large grill, and distinctive redesigned LED headlights. In addition, you can choose two configurations: a two-row version that seats five and offers the most cargo space or a three-row version that seats 8.
The 5.7-liter V8 offers 383 horsepower and 403 lbs. of torque.
The V8 engine works in sync with an eight-speed sequential-shift automatic transmission that has a towing capacity of 7,000 lbs. In addition, you are ready to tackle off-road challenges with its full-time four-wheel drive, height-adjustable suspension, and advanced system features like crawl control and multi-terrain select. The LX 570 also offers a bird’s eye view of the vehicles surrounding for added safety and peace of mind.
The interior features modern artisan-crafted wood trim and a self-monitoring heated and leather-trimmed steering wheel. The seats are incredibly soft with high-grade semi-aniline perforated leather. It has a 14-way driver and 12-way front passenger power-adjustable seats. The rear has customizable seating and storage that is versatile. It features a power sliding 60/40 second-row seat with a 40/20/40 split setback. A 50/50 split third-row seat is in the three-row version. The cabin has four-zone climate control with 28 vents and heated and ventilated seats. There is also a cool box to keep your beverages chilled. The 2019 Lexus LX 570 takes an already luxurious platform and elevates it to world-class status. With an MSRP of $86,080.00, it will stand out for its luxury accommodation and off-road proficiency.
Big thanks to the Off-Road Invitational event coordinators, manufactures and sponsors:
Prestige Auto – NuvinAir – Xpel – Horn Whinery – Azeo Distillery – Garrison Brothers Distillery
Rolls Royce Cullinan, A $400,000 SUV
Texas Off-road Invitational gave me the opportunity to drive a Rolls Royce Cullinan!
I received an invite to the first annual Texas Off-Road Invitational via the Texas Motor Press Association to test drive several different SUVs & Trucks. The highlight of this two-day event was getting behind the wheel of a Rolls Royce’s Ultimate Luxury SUV, the Cullinan. The Cullinan gets its name from the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found in Cullinan, South Africa, in 1905, which was later placed onto Elizabeth II’s crown. Before first stepping into the driver’s seat, I hopped into the back row seating to get the ultimate Rolls Royce experience. Immediately after I sat down, I was amazed by the ample leg room.
I am 6’1 and was more than comfortable. I was able to lounge back in the rear and stretch my legs without worrying about the driver. Modern and traditional designs filled the interior with nothing but luxury. The analog chrome lever that opened and closed the air vents was the most straightforward yet eye-catching feature. Inside, you are surrounded by slabs of wood, soft plush leather, and hidden Spirit of Ecstasy emblems.
The ride itself was nice and luxurious, even during some mild off-roading.
“Effortless Everywhere” is Cullinan’s motto. This is entirely true wherever you take it, as this vehicle does a lot for you. The car reads what you are doing and selects the ideal driving mode for you, including off-road and hill descent options. Even in rougher terrains, there is still unparalleled comfort. It is always in all-wheel drive, equipped with wheel rear steering, and can raise or lower when needed. The engine packs a massive punch with a 6.7 L V12, paired with an 8 Speed transmission, which gives you 563HP and 627 TQ and fuel consumption of 18.8 mpg. With its performance features, you can comfortably and safely conquer sand, rain, snow, and ice. This hand-built SUV was configured for adventure, bringing form and function together.
Verdict
If you are in the market for a top-tier, luxury, off-road capable yet graceful SUV, then forget about the competitors because the Cullinan is in a league of its own.
5 out of 5 Stars
Big thanks to the Off-Road Invitational event coordinators, manufactures and sponsors:
Prestige Auto – NuvinAir – Xpel – Horn Whinery – Azeo Distillery – Garrison Brothers Distillery