The Lexus GT and the Toyota Land Cruiser are two closely related SUVs that offer exceptional off-road capabilities and luxury amenities. Even though the Land Cruiser is from a mass-market manufacturer and the GX is from a luxury producer, both offer an impressive array of upscale features.
We’ll Start with Performance
Every Toyota Land Cruiser comes with Toyota’s i-Force Max hybrid powertrain, which combines a turbo engine and electric motors to generate 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. Full-time all-wheel drive makes this SUV capable in all kinds of weather and over a variety of terrains.
The Lexus GX 550 has a new powertrain for the 2204 model year. The 3.4-liter twin-turbo V-6 delivers 349 horsepower. It works with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and to emphasize this SUV’s off-road capabilities, all-wheel drive comes standard.
How Far Off-Road Do You Want to Go?
Both the Land Cruiser and the GX have pumped up their off-road image in their latest generations, and they both have the equipment to back it up. The Land Cruiser has hill descent control, a locking rear differential, and a cruise control system designed to keep you in control when tackling rough terrain. Higher-end trims also have a front stabilizer bar and a camera that will show you obstacles along the trail.
The bet GX for off-roading the is the Overtrail trim. This has some fun off-road extras that the rest of the GX lineup doesn’t have, including a locking rear differential, terrain-specific driving modes, and trail turn assist. This SUV rolls on 18-inch wheels that come wrapped in all-terrain 33-inch tires.
Let’s Not Forget These Are Luxury SUVs
While the GX and the Land Cruser are ready to hit the trails, they will do it while providing passengers with luxury accommodations. The Land Cruiser’s top trim has leather upholstery, a chilled center console so you always have cold drinks for your ride, and a sunroof.
The GX steps up the luxury with available features such as power-deployable running boards, a cooled center console, an adjustable-tint glass roof, and massaging front seats.
Technology for on the Road and Off
No matter which one of these SUVs you choose, it will come loaded with the latest tech features. The GX has a 14-inch touchscreen sitting in the dashboard. It comes loaded with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, and a 10-speaker stereo. If 10 speakers are not enough, no problem; you can get a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo in the Luxury+ trim. Add the wireless charging pad, digital rearview mirror, and household plug in the cargo area, and you’ve got all the tech you need.
The Land Cruiser is just as well-equipped with the available 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, fully digital driver information display, and 10-speaker stereo system. If you want more speakers in this SUV, the 14-speaker JBL stereo will give you the sound you’re looking for. It comes in a package that also includes Toyota’s Drive Connect with navigation and voice command functionality.
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