I chose the GX Overtrail and my buddy chose the LC 1958. We both decided to go with bigger tires to improve ground clearance. I put on a Westcott preload collar lift which improved the approach & departure angles. It also allowed me to fit Toyo Open Country AT III 35x12.5x17 tires with Method MR703 Bead Grip 17x8.5x +35 offset wheels. My ground clearance went from 8.9" to 10.5". That big of an improvement leads me to believe that the original 33's are actually around 31.5" to 32". Anyway we both love our rigs, and to be honest, we both love each others rig. These are great trucks and you can't go wrong with either one. As soon as high clearance off-road bumpers come to market I'll be adding those as well.
I gotta say I did not like how the new land cruiser looked in videos until I saw it in the dealership, its absolutely gorgeous, completely changed my mind, now I am a big fan!
I agree I saw one on the road the other day and it looks good. But it's no longer a real rugged off road vehicle. It's a rich man's toy. Drive it around for a couple years then trash it
Interesting I had the opposite thought. I was hugely disappointed in its size and stature and the looks don’t seem like they’ll age well compared to past Land Cruiser models. It reminds me more of the FJ Cruiser than a real Land Cruiser. New 4Runner looks better IMO
@@itshadouken You could be completely right, since we never had the previous Land Cruiser models here in Canada I can't really compare it to those. The new 4runner looks amazing! such a shame they now have small engine with turbo instead of the trusted V6.
I think it comes down to this: Some people are going to look at these and say (like me) “I’m a Land Cruiser person” while others will say “I’m a GX person”. And I think Toyota/Lexus is well aware of that. :) Both are fantastic. Thanks for the side-by-side!
Great comparison video! I’ve been waiting for this one. I got my GX OT+ about a week ago. Haven’t had a chance to take it on the trails yet but thoroughly impressed across-the-board. Couple little things I wish it had like the vents in the ceiling and a digital rearview mirror but overall very happy so far. The biggest advantage to the LC is the approach angle and underbody clearance as you pointed out. Beautiful and more than capable all around. Well done Toyota! Now off to take the GX to get its PPF!
I think you gotta go base GX overtrail if you’re approaching the 70k price point. Otherwise LC w/o premium is a sweet spot. Wait it out and add some deals then it’s looking much more desirable.
I definitely will be going with Lexus and doing modifications to enhance the appearance, but also the off-road capability ..excellent video. For my lifestyle road manners is a little bit more important to me than off road manners
Great comparison! Good job. The smaller screen is actually my preference aesthetically in the LC. It’s also much better off road because of the geometry. Approach angle wasn’t tested here but if you were then the GX would have lost its front bumper quickly while in the same situation the LC would have been fine.
@@mkyhou1160 Lexus designs its cars to look good for 25 years. Toyota doesn't actually have that as a requirement. Fun fact: that's why Lexus colors are the way they are. They have to be thought to look good for 25 years.
@@jeremyelliott9831 Well the GX is aimed at specifically high income Millenials, whereas the Land Cruiser is aimed at wealthy Boomers. This is why the LC has brown leather as an option, and the GX doesn't--nor does the GX Overtrail have genuine leather as even an option--because Millenials don't care about leather. I don't know if you've gone to design school, but whatever you're saying makes the GX look dated isn't a sentiment that I've heard, and, in fact, the Land Cruiser is actually supposed to look slightly retro not the GX. Methinksyou aren't the target demographic with this car, the GX 550.
@@jeremyelliott9831 I originally wanted the LC but got the GX OT. I remember being told that the LAST generation RX was the last boomer Lexus and moving forward they were aiming at affluent Millenials; and it seems to have come to fruition from what I can see. Less wood and leather, more sport and outdoor. Come to think of it I am wondering what cars are or if any were developed with Gen X in mind because it seems many aimed at boomers, but not a lot else!
I like how American and European off roads or trails are actually nice roads or strips through forests. I would surely have a blast showing actual off roading in Zimbabwe. Some roads here would break stuff.
Hum, that is a hard pick. I think I like the look of the Lexus better and the fact that I don't off road very often, and I enjoy power of the V6, I would probably go with the Lexus.
Ryan, If I remember correctly, your Land Cruiser was made 0:53 in Hino's Hamura plant which also built the FJ Cruiser and T100 while the GX was made in Toyota's Tahara plant. 😉
not exactly, another youtuber, Automotive Press actually went and interviewed LC250 assembly engineer and depending on the region the 250 can be built in either factories (+ the Chinese market factory)
Yeah the Prado can be made in either plant. That's why there's more LCs available globally than the GX. I wouldn't be surprised if GX gets made in both plants too.
Also if you notice these are NOT the OC AT 3 you can buy over the counter. They have less tread depth but larger sidewall lugs. So if you have to replace one, it will look stupid
@@drivingsportsRight? The Toyos are probably the best tire Toyota offers. A friend of mine just picked up a 2024 4Runner with the Dunlops, one drive in a good rainstorm and she's replacing them with proper all-terrains. It's pretty bad that no matter which Toyota 4x4 you buy, most likely you're going to have to go spend at least another 1,200 bucks on a good set of tires.
Hi, great video thank you! Does the battery in the boot heat up in the Toyota? I have 2 dogs and I am worried that the back will heat up and make it uncomfortable for the pups. Cheers
I know they are crossovers, but I'd love it if you did a comparison video like this between the Acura MDX and Honda Pilot. Keep up the great work. Your video production is A+. You are clearly one of the best car reviewers on TH-cam.
They are not crossovers. Crossovers are unibody cars. MDX and Pilot are crossovers. These are body on frame SUV's. Totally different animals. You cannot compare them as same types. Just the fact that GX can tow 9000 lb tells you they are different. NO crossover will ever tow 9000 lb. Their sheetmetal body will tear itself if they try to tow that much.
The Lexus gives me soccer mom vibes. I prefer the Land Cruiser. Rugged good looks. Way better fuel efficiency and you don't have to use premium gas either.
I think Lexus and Toyota got it wrong with launching with LC as hybrid and GX as gas. The GX should've been the hybrid. The problem, though, is there can't be a third row on the hybrids.
@@mcwendel8066 Yes! You’re silly if you think a V6 that gets 40% less MPG with effectively the exact same amount of power is better. It doesn’t even sound better. I have the TTV6, and I would gladly trade for a hybrid. Hybrids are smoother, more reliable and better off road-instantaneous torque response is great for slow crawling. Also, my father was a taxi driver and I have seen many Prius with over 500,000 on the original batteries.
@@mcwendel8066 Four cylinder is absolutely a selling point. Inline engines are far simpler mechanically than V style engines. Far less to go wrong. Coupled with Toyota's robust hybrid system it's definitely the superior powertrain.
Well, seems if $ was not an option, I would go the GX550. At this stage in life, I spend more time on pavement than off. And the times I do venture off the pavement, the GX would handle it perfectly. As well as our 4 seasons around the PNW. I also like the 6 over the 4 cylinder. I like the OR prowess of the LC. I like the slightly lower price tag. I like the better on board power. And I like the looks. Fortunately for me, I am not in the market for an SUV anymore. My 4R TRD OR with KDSS suits me just fine. lol
Yeah you’re good for another decade at least. I have an 04 Gx470 with 150k and can’t help but drool over the idea of upgrading to something modern. But even I know these expensive new vehicles live two lives and I tend to be the guy getting it for its second life. These new GXs will see suburban roads and soccer fields hauling wealthy families and getting great maintenance so that when it’s at 100k and ready for a trade in I’m waiting patiently.
True...I prefer a N-A V6 gas for my mid-size trucks (or, in this video's case SUVs), so I'm fine with the one I have now. No turbos or even V8s for me, thanks. And certainly nothing EV. -- BR
Thank you for your work on this. I cant find a LC to test drive. I loved the 550 OT test drive on streets. 3-4 months order lead time for each. I had a 2007 FJ for 14 years and dozens of blizzards. Really wanted a first edition LC. However I think the 550 for our use case.
The Lexus is such a good looking vehicle. Thank you for the top content! Would it be possible to edit in metric when you mention important stats, for example mpg?
Me, too...and makes my current "overpriced" vehicle (even when bough new in 2021) look dirt-cheap in comparison, yet even back then people said it was way too expensive. How time changes things -- but everything is still relative. -- BR
It's actually really amazing, I love these videos, but what gets me the most is your literally driving the "same" vehicle just different brand name. Yet, they both can do things that the other can't which is mind boggling, if your going to make a Lexus basically the same as Toyota lines, why not just put the same technology and equipment. I personally believe that whatever they do and make with the Land Cruiser to be able to handle a bunch of that stuff in a completely different way, the Lexus should be able to do exactly the same especially when you're paying a high/higher price for the same vehicle. Yes absolutely, provide the Lexus the higher technology and luxury but overall, all the vehicles that have the same configuration. Just my opinion and thank you for the videos!
Yes, I have 2023 GX 460 in Nori Green, and take my granddaughter places in her car seat almost daily. The separate rear Climate system with ceiling vents (both 2nd and 3rd row have them!) is definitely a huge plus in the summer. That's another cost cutting move on a $80K+ Lexus??? I drove it and the 550 interior quality of materials, fit and finish is no longer Lexus level in my book. Also no more that sweet addictive purr of the silky smooth and bulletproof V8.
Best comparison video so far (TLC phoned it in). Just visually, it seems like both vehicles wheel articulation were about the same. I'm still a little hesitant going hybrid of off the gird trips. Thoughts? Other creators point out that there's more armor on the LC. The only drawback to the LC for overlanding is the raised rear platform. Takes away cargo. Also LC has lower payload and towing.
Great video. Wish the Yota had a V6, that would be my choice, but the basic OT Lexus would probably win out if I was buying today. I haven't shopped a lot of new cars, and maybe this is just a thing with cars today, but I was checking these out in the flesh, and the one things that bothers me is how impossibly thin the body panels feel. They sort of feel like a beer can. Are all new cars like this (well except the Grenadier, which feels like a tank)?
Great comparison Ryan. I finally got to sit in the new LC, very comfortable. I will have to drive both before I decide. Most of my miles are in town with some off roading and a few long road trips. Down side for the GX550 is the closest Lexus dealership is 140ish miles away..
I'll start off by saying I love your channel. Ok, now. Nitpicking mode: At the start, both in 4Lo except the LC with MTS on. Articulation test: both systems are great. The next stage, the LC got stuck and required center/rear lockers(would you have pushed the LC harder if it was a demo?). The GX made it with MTS only. The GX required center/rear lockers on the return trip. I'll surmise that the tires are the reason why. P.S. Toyota air-conditioning is poor. Other brands will turn the inside of the vehicle into a meat locker regardless of the vent location. 🍻
is there much difference in interior quality? the LC got some soft touch tops, but around bottle holders or the surrounding of the window controls is really cheap plastics. was wondering if the GX550 got similar plastics in the "less touched places".
Ryan, now that you have had the LC for a while, how has your experience been with the battery hump/load floor in the cargo area? Curious about the load-in height and overall usability there. I'm currently in a vehicle with a lower cargo load-in height (which I like) so I'm curious if the height of the battery would make it annoying for my family.
I think the most annoying thing is that the floor is just a couple inches too high for me to sit upright in the back comfortably without hitting my head on the rear gate opening.
I had a particularly hard time deciding between these. Waited it out a bit and after getting a chance to spend an afternoon with each, i was surprised to find i strongly prefer the 550. The Lc’s suspension didn’t really check all the boxes for me when compared side by side. . The one thing that actually disappointed me overall was the real world power band curve in the LC. Had I not been able to compare it to the 550 maybe it wouldn’t have felt like a bummer… still a great truck regardless. Pulling the trigger on a 550 the day the release date drops for the v6 phev variant.
I prefer the LC. Reasons: the Defender lockers are automatic. Not a fan of that. Also, 20-inch wheels are too big. Because the front brakes are so huge on the Defender you can’t go down to 18s. These might not be an issue for anyone else but they annoy me. 🤓
@@drivingsports I agree with you. I absolutely love the Defender, but as you say 20inch wheels! Look stylish but seriously limits tyre choice and serous off-roading. I’m also not a fan of the rear door and spare position (I know it’s a design throw back to defenders of old). The LR3 & LR4 had more practical rear access and a spare housed below without massively affecting departure angle, ground clearance and access to full size spare. Loved my LR3 as well as my previous Subaru’s. I personally don’t do serious off-road/over land, but I still want the capability, especially to give great confidence in adverse weather and road conditions. Love watching your videos and your sensible, practical and pragmatic approach to each vehicle tested/reviewed 👍 I’ve not found anyone in the UK who does your kind of review s 🙌🙌 excellent stuff. Thank you
Good info, thank you, Ryan! For future, it would be helpful to learn what the limits are on tire size/sidewall depth for offroad use (Subaru and others are stampeding towards larger wheels/skinny tires on various "off road" vehicles).
I used to have an 04 Prius, and i like Toyota hybrid drivetrains. They also act like emergency generators. Currently, i have a 16 GX, and i have been hearing that 24 GX lost the Lexus sophistication. So, at this point, LC sounds like a better deal.
We have two large golden doodles who travel comfortably in my 2011 4-Runner Trail Sport with the back sliding window half open. I’m not able to do that in the Land Cruiser with the lift gate window, so having super nice overhead vents with individual climate control will keep my pups cool in the summer and cozy in the winter. The GS 550 doesn’t offer that comfort. I love Toyota!
I really wish you could get the 3.4L V6TT in the LC. The extra load height and lack of space caused by the hybrid battery in the LC is a deal breaker for me. One of the things I do is take two medium-sized dogs (70lbs and 75lbs) on 300+ mile trips for dog competitions and it's easier for the dogs to get in the back of the lower GX. Plus I prefer the sound the GX makes. But, the extra features, and better off-road specs of the LC are compelling. I figure that when the aftermarket has caught up I'll be able to get a ~1" lift and replacement front bumper for the GX and have the best of both worlds.
@@mononeo yep - I have an Overtrail on order. But I wish it had the digital rear view mirror and the rear headliner mounted A/C vents like the L/C. That would make it easier when I have my two dogs loaded in crates in the back (the crates somewhat block the view of the rear view mirror and the A/C vents higher up help keep them cooler.
@7:29 The Lexus comes with TOYO Open Country (clearly shown in the video) and not Nitto Terra Grapplers (those are standard on the current 4Runner TRD Pro).
I will wait for the 4Runner. The Trailhunter has the OME shocks, more ground clearance and hopefully be a bit less money. Will probably wait for the 2026 model to get past the new car teething problems. Have a 2014 Trail with a OME 3" suspension lift and 33" Mickey Thompson Baja Boss AT's and other mods so not in a rush. With recall issues on the twin turbo V6 I'm hoping the 4 will be reliable and have much better fuel economy...
Having finally understand automakers and manufacturing, sadly the 4Runner and Tacoma are the most watered down trucks on this new gen platform. Both the GX and Land Cruiser are world market vehicles for Toyota which means there’s more r&d put into it and more money too. If you look at the features, 4Runner and Tacoma gets the least amount of off road features compared to the LC. It doesn’t even have frame mounted bump stops like the previous gen. Toyota is hoping. Americans are dumb enough to not notice this and as the generation continues year over year, they’ll add EKDSS down the road just like they did before but the the kicker here is the price. Would you pay these prices knowing how watered down the regional truck market (4Runner and Tacoma) is? It took away existing features and plastered gimmick lift kits which lose articulation btw, it’s garbage. Wait 5-7 years for this generation to get back all these features before you go spending money over a cheapened down product man. Theyre hoping we don’t notice this. Don’t buy. Not yet. Be patient! They take away features just to put them back like it was all new. Did it last gen and will do it again here. Go for world market models in a car manufacturer. Btw, has anyone checked out that new ‘25 armada (patrol)? Interesting.
I think you made the right choice, 4 me LC 1st edition would be the way to go (ideally with the v6 diesel they use on the 300 series). It just makes more sense as a Toyota in my opinion ( not considering here the potential difference in after sales of Lexus network)
I really like both. The Land Cruiser looks simple, and has a clean rugged design. The Lexus is sleek but still has all the off road stuff you’d want. I’m curious to see which does better in the used market and what keeps value better.
I’ve driven both and to be honest the Land Cruiser just feels so much more cheap to me… Ive off roaded 4runners and tundra’s but the Land cruiser’s transmission just felt cheap like it could break driving it on the road. The fit and finish of the GX just feels study. Thats what i’m going with. The hybrid does feel good with instant torque but not worth losing the space in the back.
I chose the GX Overtrail and my buddy chose the LC 1958. We both decided to go with bigger tires to improve ground clearance. I put on a Westcott preload collar lift which improved the approach & departure angles. It also allowed me to fit Toyo Open Country AT III 35x12.5x17 tires with Method MR703 Bead Grip 17x8.5x +35 offset wheels. My ground clearance went from 8.9" to 10.5". That big of an improvement leads me to believe that the original 33's are actually around 31.5" to 32". Anyway we both love our rigs, and to be honest, we both love each others rig. These are great trucks and you can't go wrong with either one. As soon as high clearance off-road bumpers come to market I'll be adding those as well.
Could you upload more videos of it? I’d like to see more content of modified new GXs
@frankburch5104 Dissent Off-road makes high clearance bunoers
I gotta say I did not like how the new land cruiser looked in videos until I saw it in the dealership, its absolutely gorgeous, completely changed my mind, now I am a big fan!
same. My biggest critique is still that raised cargo floor. I was really hoping lifting second row would be a flat floor for car camping.
I agree I saw one on the road the other day and it looks good. But it's no longer a real rugged off road vehicle. It's a rich man's toy. Drive it around for a couple years then trash it
@@davidpiccolo3039 yup. very curious what everyone is gravitating to for real off-road capabilities at non-luxury prices.
Interesting I had the opposite thought. I was hugely disappointed in its size and stature and the looks don’t seem like they’ll age well compared to past Land Cruiser models. It reminds me more of the FJ Cruiser than a real Land Cruiser. New 4Runner looks better IMO
@@itshadouken You could be completely right, since we never had the previous Land Cruiser models here in Canada I can't really compare it to those. The new 4runner looks amazing! such a shame they now have small engine with turbo instead of the trusted V6.
Give me the GX Luxury plus with no third row and the overtrail's wheels and tires.
Perfect.
Just wondering why you don't want the third row? For me, I want a 7/8 seated for my family as it can be folded down, then it is a 5 seated.
Both look great, however I find GX550 to be pretty much perfect and do prefer the v6.
The crawl control in reverse on GX550 did it for me..that is freaking awsome
I think it comes down to this: Some people are going to look at these and say (like me) “I’m a Land Cruiser person” while others will say “I’m a GX person”. And I think Toyota/Lexus is well aware of that. :) Both are fantastic. Thanks for the side-by-side!
Great camera work....and side by side editing is great!
Great comparison video! I’ve been waiting for this one. I got my GX OT+ about a week ago. Haven’t had a chance to take it on the trails yet but thoroughly impressed across-the-board. Couple little things I wish it had like the vents in the ceiling and a digital rearview mirror but overall very happy so far. The biggest advantage to the LC is the approach angle and underbody clearance as you pointed out. Beautiful and more than capable all around. Well done Toyota! Now off to take the GX to get its PPF!
Does yours also make weird raspy sounds around 4000 RPM?
@@mononeo not that I’ve noticed, no.
THANK YOU RYAN! We’ve all been waiting for this one.
Yep
I go for land cruiser especially first edition
Really great comparison video
Excellent unbiased review. Thank you.
I think you gotta go base GX overtrail if you’re approaching the 70k price point. Otherwise LC w/o premium is a sweet spot. Wait it out and add some deals then it’s looking much more desirable.
same. waiting for some of the hype to settle down
@@MINDBODYTEST once 4Runner is release next year it will take away all the hype.
@@sunchaser999 word
I definitely will be going with Lexus and doing modifications to enhance the appearance, but also the off-road capability ..excellent video. For my lifestyle road manners is a little bit more important to me than off road manners
Great comparison! Good job. The smaller screen is actually my preference aesthetically in the LC. It’s also much better off road because of the geometry. Approach angle wasn’t tested here but if you were then the GX would have lost its front bumper quickly while in the same situation the LC would have been fine.
This channel is underrated. TFL should hire this guy
rofl.. TFL sucks and this guy is bigger and more respected than TFL!
The GX also has heavier duty differentials for the higher towing capacity.
Lexus all the way
Looks much better for almost the same price
I think the LC styling will age better, it’s more classic.
but its worse in off-roading conditions lol
@@mkyhou1160 Lexus designs its cars to look good for 25 years. Toyota doesn't actually have that as a requirement. Fun fact: that's why Lexus colors are the way they are. They have to be thought to look good for 25 years.
@@jeremyelliott9831 Well the GX is aimed at specifically high income Millenials, whereas the Land Cruiser is aimed at wealthy Boomers. This is why the LC has brown leather as an option, and the GX doesn't--nor does the GX Overtrail have genuine leather as even an option--because Millenials don't care about leather. I don't know if you've gone to design school, but whatever you're saying makes the GX look dated isn't a sentiment that I've heard, and, in fact, the Land Cruiser is actually supposed to look slightly retro not the GX. Methinksyou aren't the target demographic with this car, the GX 550.
@@jeremyelliott9831 I originally wanted the LC but got the GX OT. I remember being told that the LAST generation RX was the last boomer Lexus and moving forward they were aiming at affluent Millenials; and it seems to have come to fruition from what I can see. Less wood and leather, more sport and outdoor. Come to think of it I am wondering what cars are or if any were developed with Gen X in mind because it seems many aimed at boomers, but not a lot else!
Old timers will tell you the best off-road vehicle is a horse or a mule.
they ain't wrong tho.
Old timers can be wrong, too.
Nobody is asking them.
Except you only get one horsepower with a horse! And the wind noise can smell pretty bad with a horse.
so so you want the GX, cas it can tow a bigger horse trailer.
Awesome video. Thanks Ryan and team!
Both SUV’S are great ! However, I had money I’ll take a fully loaded Lexus
Same!!!
Just got my GX On Saturday ❤
Great job Ryan!
I like how American and European off roads or trails are actually nice roads or strips through forests. I would surely have a blast showing actual off roading in Zimbabwe. Some roads here would break stuff.
cool story
And that’s just the ‘sealed’ roads
GX fuel economy coupled with a small fuel tank means you won’t be going very far. GX is best for the city, LC to actually go places.
I will take the GX with Hybrid options and wants about 24 combined mpg
@@wj2791same, especially for me who drives 500 miles per week for ski trips . Mpg is a thing I can’t avoid thinking in CA with high gas prices
Hum, that is a hard pick. I think I like the look of the Lexus better and the fact that I don't off road very often, and I enjoy power of the V6, I would probably go with the Lexus.
Ryan, If I remember correctly, your Land Cruiser was made 0:53 in Hino's Hamura plant which also built the FJ Cruiser and T100 while the GX was made in Toyota's Tahara plant. 😉
Correct. I decided not to get too much into the weeds there. Both LCs and GXs are made at the same plant. And some LCs are made at Hino.
@@drivingsports 👍👍
not exactly, another youtuber, Automotive Press actually went and interviewed LC250 assembly engineer and depending on the region the 250 can be built in either factories (+ the Chinese market factory)
Yeah the Prado can be made in either plant. That's why there's more LCs available globally than the GX. I wouldn't be surprised if GX gets made in both plants too.
@@CACressidaI dont think so since they are not offering gx550 in rhd markets.
The GX550 has Toyo Open County A/T3 tires, not Nitto Terra Grapplers.
Thanks for the correction. An earlier script with the wrong tires made its way into the final.
It would be nice if Toyota would just pick a all-terrain tire and stick with it. I swear every other Lexus and Toyota release has a different brand.
Also if you notice these are NOT the OC AT 3 you can buy over the counter. They have less tread depth but larger sidewall lugs. So if you have to replace one, it will look stupid
@@drivingsportsRight? The Toyos are probably the best tire Toyota offers. A friend of mine just picked up a 2024 4Runner with the Dunlops, one drive in a good rainstorm and she's replacing them with proper all-terrains. It's pretty bad that no matter which Toyota 4x4 you buy, most likely you're going to have to go spend at least another 1,200 bucks on a good set of tires.
@@Ill06Taco OC AT 2.25...
fantastic video. super impressed with this channel.
Great videos! The location you used and how you explained their capabilities really hook us up to watch more on your videos!
Hi, great video thank you! Does the battery in the boot heat up in the Toyota? I have 2 dogs and I am worried that the back will heat up and make it uncomfortable for the pups. Cheers
No it doesn’t heat the cabin. The dogs will like the roof-mounted AC.
I know they are crossovers, but I'd love it if you did a comparison video like this between the Acura MDX and Honda Pilot. Keep up the great work. Your video production is A+. You are clearly one of the best car reviewers on TH-cam.
They are not crossovers. Crossovers are unibody cars. MDX and Pilot are crossovers. These are body on frame SUV's. Totally different animals. You cannot compare them as same types. Just the fact that GX can tow 9000 lb tells you they are different. NO crossover will ever tow 9000 lb. Their sheetmetal body will tear itself if they try to tow that much.
he meant he knows that the acura and hondas are crossovers but still wants reviews on them.
Read it again. That’s not what the guy was saying. We all know what a cross over is vs a real body on frame truck like these two Toyotas.
Great review! 🔥🔥
The Lexus gives me soccer mom vibes. I prefer the Land Cruiser. Rugged good looks. Way better fuel efficiency and you don't have to use premium gas either.
Surprisingly the 250-series LC with front disconnecting swaybar out-flexes the GX550 with E-KDSS.
At least in the front, Car & Driver doesn't test the rear at the same time. I'd like to see that.
I would choose Lexus becouse its V6 engine, better tires and overall look. Great review. Greetings
The sway bar disconnect mechanism in the LC250 works with any lift while eKDSS hates you for even the slightest suspension modification.
Personally would go for the Land Cruiser although when the GX gets the 4 cylinder hybrid then it might be the way to go.
I think Lexus and Toyota got it wrong with launching with LC as hybrid and GX as gas. The GX should've been the hybrid. The problem, though, is there can't be a third row on the hybrids.
Yes, four-cylinder hybrid is a selling point for you? It’s literally the reason I wouldn’t get that it.
@@mcwendel8066 Yes! You’re silly if you think a V6 that gets 40% less MPG with effectively the exact same amount of power is better. It doesn’t even sound better. I have the TTV6, and I would gladly trade for a hybrid. Hybrids are smoother, more reliable and better off road-instantaneous torque response is great for slow crawling. Also, my father was a taxi driver and I have seen many Prius with over 500,000 on the original batteries.
@@mcwendel8066 Four cylinder is absolutely a selling point. Inline engines are far simpler mechanically than V style engines. Far less to go wrong. Coupled with Toyota's robust hybrid system it's definitely the superior powertrain.
@@jaekimchi superior in fuel economy only. I guess we’ll see on longevity
Well, seems if $ was not an option, I would go the GX550. At this stage in life, I spend more time on pavement than off. And the times I do venture off the pavement, the GX would handle it perfectly. As well as our 4 seasons around the PNW. I also like the 6 over the 4 cylinder. I like the OR prowess of the LC. I like the slightly lower price tag. I like the better on board power. And I like the looks. Fortunately for me, I am not in the market for an SUV anymore. My 4R TRD OR with KDSS suits me just fine. lol
Yeah you’re good for another decade at least. I have an 04 Gx470 with 150k and can’t help but drool over the idea of upgrading to something modern. But even I know these expensive new vehicles live two lives and I tend to be the guy getting it for its second life. These new GXs will see suburban roads and soccer fields hauling wealthy families and getting great maintenance so that when it’s at 100k and ready for a trade in I’m waiting patiently.
I made my KDSS essentially this eKDSS with the Dr KDSS switch, its super awesome for city driving.
The 4 popper sounds like a tiny turbo diesel. Interesting. Kind of cool, I guess.
True...I prefer a N-A V6 gas for my mid-size trucks (or, in this video's case SUVs), so I'm fine with the one I have now. No turbos or even V8s for me, thanks. And certainly nothing EV.
-- BR
@@billredding2000 don’t go on a commercial aircraft. They all use turbocharging.
@@alexsmbaHaven't flown for decades, and won't, mainsail due to the silly "security" process. What a joke and doesn't keep anyone "safe."
-- BR
The LC diff lock arrangement makes sense, no point using a cross axle locker if the drive is just lost to the other end of the vehicle.
Thank you for your work on this. I cant find a LC to test drive. I loved the 550 OT test drive on streets. 3-4 months order lead time for each. I had a 2007 FJ for 14 years and dozens of blizzards. Really wanted a first edition LC. However I think the 550 for our use case.
GX550 for its road manners.
LC for its power unit.
Hoping there’ll be an iForceMax GX.
The Lexus is such a good looking vehicle. Thank you for the top content! Would it be possible to edit in metric when you mention important stats, for example mpg?
In my country the land cruiser is about 50k usd cheaper so its a no brainer decision. Can't wait to get ours delivered this coming november
I love them both. Out of my price range though. Their off road capabilities are pretty awesome. Way more travel than I thought.
Me, too...and makes my current "overpriced" vehicle (even when bough new in 2021) look dirt-cheap in comparison, yet even back then people said it was way too expensive. How time changes things -- but everything is still relative.
-- BR
Wild track Bronco was pretty expensive, but I believe it is more capable than both of those. As comfortable on the road? Probably not.
Two great looking SUVs!
It's actually really amazing, I love these videos, but what gets me the most is your literally driving the "same" vehicle just different brand name. Yet, they both can do things that the other can't which is mind boggling, if your going to make a Lexus basically the same as Toyota lines, why not just put the same technology and equipment. I personally believe that whatever they do and make with the Land Cruiser to be able to handle a bunch of that stuff in a completely different way, the Lexus should be able to do exactly the same especially when you're paying a high/higher price for the same vehicle. Yes absolutely, provide the Lexus the higher technology and luxury but overall, all the vehicles that have the same configuration. Just my opinion and thank you for the videos!
No rear ceiling AC vents on the GX Overtrail is a dealbreaker for me.
Yes, I have 2023 GX 460 in Nori Green, and take my granddaughter places in her car seat almost daily. The separate rear Climate system with ceiling vents (both 2nd and 3rd row have them!) is definitely a huge plus in the summer. That's another cost cutting move on a $80K+ Lexus???
I drove it and the 550 interior quality of materials, fit and finish is no longer Lexus level in my book. Also no more that sweet addictive purr of the silky smooth and bulletproof V8.
Better yet, get a pre-spindle grill LX570. Not a rock crawler but with upgraded wheels and AT tires, about as good as it gets.
@@robertherrmann4823 And 12 MPG
Amazing comparison ❤❤ It’s surprising how this video does not have more likes and views 😅
Best comparison video so far (TLC phoned it in). Just visually, it seems like both vehicles wheel articulation were about the same.
I'm still a little hesitant going hybrid of off the gird trips. Thoughts?
Other creators point out that there's more armor on the LC.
The only drawback to the LC for overlanding is the raised rear platform. Takes away cargo. Also LC has lower payload and towing.
I’m impressed with the articulation and off road capability of the Land Cruiser. It would be a great overland platform with the power outlet as well.
Great video. Wish the Yota had a V6, that would be my choice, but the basic OT Lexus would probably win out if I was buying today. I haven't shopped a lot of new cars, and maybe this is just a thing with cars today, but I was checking these out in the flesh, and the one things that bothers me is how impossibly thin the body panels feel. They sort of feel like a beer can. Are all new cars like this (well except the Grenadier, which feels like a tank)?
Great comparison Ryan. I finally got to sit in the new LC, very comfortable. I will have to drive both before I decide. Most of my miles are in town with some off roading and a few long road trips. Down side for the GX550 is the closest Lexus dealership is 140ish miles away..
For around the same price ($77,000) I would choose the Lexus GX. You get more engine and more luxury.
I'll start off by saying I love your channel. Ok, now.
Nitpicking mode:
At the start, both in 4Lo except the LC with MTS on.
Articulation test: both systems are great.
The next stage, the LC got stuck and required center/rear lockers(would you have pushed the LC harder if it was a demo?). The GX made it with MTS only. The GX required center/rear lockers on the return trip.
I'll surmise that the tires are the reason why.
P.S. Toyota air-conditioning is poor. Other brands will turn the inside of the vehicle into a meat locker regardless of the vent location.
🍻
I didn’t do it with just MTS because I did that in the 4Runner video with the LC. Probably should have been consistent and just did it with MTS.
is there much difference in interior quality? the LC got some soft touch tops, but around bottle holders or the surrounding of the window controls is really cheap plastics. was wondering if the GX550 got similar plastics in the "less touched places".
🎉great video
Isn’t Toyotas softex leather extremely durable? I would imagine that faux leather would be better than leather in terms of durability, no?
Ryan, now that you have had the LC for a while, how has your experience been with the battery hump/load floor in the cargo area? Curious about the load-in height and overall usability there. I'm currently in a vehicle with a lower cargo load-in height (which I like) so I'm curious if the height of the battery would make it annoying for my family.
I think the most annoying thing is that the floor is just a couple inches too high for me to sit upright in the back comfortably without hitting my head on the rear gate opening.
I had a particularly hard time deciding between these. Waited it out a bit and after getting a chance to spend an afternoon with each, i was surprised to find i strongly prefer the 550. The Lc’s suspension didn’t really check all the boxes for me when compared side by side. . The one thing that actually disappointed me overall was the real world power band curve in the LC. Had I not been able to compare it to the 550 maybe it wouldn’t have felt like a bummer… still a great truck regardless. Pulling the trigger on a 550 the day the release date drops for the v6 phev variant.
Excellent job!!
Compare it to the last LC 200. No one else has!
How would you compare new Landcruiser with the new landrover defender? On-road, off-road, comfort, cost etc.
I prefer the LC. Reasons: the Defender lockers are automatic. Not a fan of that. Also, 20-inch wheels are too big. Because the front brakes are so huge on the Defender you can’t go down to 18s. These might not be an issue for anyone else but they annoy me. 🤓
@@drivingsports I agree with you. I absolutely love the Defender, but as you say 20inch wheels! Look stylish but seriously limits tyre choice and serous off-roading. I’m also not a fan of the rear door and spare position (I know it’s a design throw back to defenders of old). The LR3 & LR4 had more practical rear access and a spare housed below without massively affecting departure angle, ground clearance and access to full size spare. Loved my LR3 as well as my previous Subaru’s.
I personally don’t do serious off-road/over land, but I still want the capability, especially to give great confidence in adverse weather and road conditions.
Love watching your videos and your sensible, practical and pragmatic approach to each vehicle tested/reviewed 👍
I’ve not found anyone in the UK who does your kind of review s 🙌🙌 excellent stuff. Thank you
GX550 all the way
I’m going with LC base model- only though! But very light modifications for off-roading
I have enjoyed this video and I would chose the GX550
Don't like the smaller fuel tank. Why would they do that?
Good info, thank you, Ryan! For future, it would be helpful to learn what the limits are on tire size/sidewall depth for offroad use (Subaru and others are stampeding towards larger wheels/skinny tires on various "off road" vehicles).
I used to have an 04 Prius, and i like Toyota hybrid drivetrains. They also act like emergency generators. Currently, i have a 16 GX, and i have been hearing that 24 GX lost the Lexus sophistication. So, at this point, LC sounds like a better deal.
How thick is the clear coat?
Can't wait to see how these compare when the new 4Runner comes out.
It will be a diluted Land Cruiser prado. Basically the same thing with a part time four wheel drive and a different front and rear look.
We have two large golden doodles who travel comfortably in my 2011 4-Runner Trail Sport with the back sliding window half open. I’m not able to do that in the Land Cruiser with the lift gate window, so having super nice overhead vents with individual climate control will keep my pups cool in the summer and cozy in the winter. The GS 550 doesn’t offer that comfort. I love Toyota!
I really wish you could get the 3.4L V6TT in the LC. The extra load height and lack of space caused by the hybrid battery in the LC is a deal breaker for me. One of the things I do is take two medium-sized dogs (70lbs and 75lbs) on 300+ mile trips for dog competitions and it's easier for the dogs to get in the back of the lower GX. Plus I prefer the sound the GX makes. But, the extra features, and better off-road specs of the LC are compelling. I figure that when the aftermarket has caught up I'll be able to get a ~1" lift and replacement front bumper for the GX and have the best of both worlds.
...or you could just get the Lexus. It's legitimately the same price.
@@mononeo yep - I have an Overtrail on order. But I wish it had the digital rear view mirror and the rear headliner mounted A/C vents like the L/C. That would make it easier when I have my two dogs loaded in crates in the back (the crates somewhat block the view of the rear view mirror and the A/C vents higher up help keep them cooler.
Land cruiser for me! Thanks!
@7:29 The Lexus comes with TOYO Open Country (clearly shown in the video) and not Nitto Terra Grapplers (those are standard on the current 4Runner TRD Pro).
Until my 2010 4Runner limited dies on me I’ll upgrade. But trust me would love to have either one.
Get the lc 200 and add a front locker.
Beats everything else.
Love them both. But Lexus for us.
Great comparison
Nice review, thank you. Do both take regular 87 gas?
Premium recommended for both.
Does Lexus offer the hybrid v6 like the Tundra has?
Compare the LC250 to the last gen LC200!
Agree!!
LC is soo nice. Especially that color
I will wait for the 4Runner. The Trailhunter has the OME shocks, more ground clearance and hopefully be a bit less money. Will probably wait for the 2026 model to get past the new car teething problems. Have a 2014 Trail with a OME 3" suspension lift and 33" Mickey Thompson Baja Boss AT's and other mods so not in a rush. With recall issues on the twin turbo V6 I'm hoping the 4 will be reliable and have much better fuel economy...
4Runner just got delayed again. I would not get the first year of that redesign.
Having finally understand automakers and manufacturing, sadly the 4Runner and Tacoma are the most watered down trucks on this new gen platform. Both the GX and Land Cruiser are world market vehicles for Toyota which means there’s more r&d put into it and more money too. If you look at the features, 4Runner and Tacoma gets the least amount of off road features compared to the LC. It doesn’t even have frame mounted bump stops like the previous gen. Toyota is hoping. Americans are dumb enough to not notice this and as the generation continues year over year, they’ll add EKDSS down the road just like they did before but the the kicker here is the price. Would you pay these prices knowing how watered down the regional truck market (4Runner and Tacoma) is? It took away existing features and plastered gimmick lift kits which lose articulation btw, it’s garbage. Wait 5-7 years for this generation to get back all these features before you go spending money over a cheapened down product man. Theyre hoping we don’t notice this. Don’t buy. Not yet.
Be patient! They take away features just to put them back like it was all new. Did it last gen and will do it again here. Go for world market models in a car manufacturer.
Btw, has anyone checked out that new ‘25 armada (patrol)? Interesting.
It is absurd that you can only get fake leather in the Overtrail Plus... but the Land Cruiser can get real leather lol!
I think you made the right choice, 4 me LC 1st edition would be the way to go (ideally with the v6 diesel they use on the 300 series). It just makes more sense as a Toyota in my opinion ( not considering here the potential difference in after sales of Lexus network)
Any plans on doing another colab with tflcar and have Tommy spot you again?
I really like both. The Land Cruiser looks simple, and has a clean rugged design. The Lexus is sleek but still has all the off road stuff you’d want. I’m curious to see which does better in the used market and what keeps value better.
Both the GS and the LC will retain their good value because they’re Toyotas made in Japan.
I’ve driven both and to be honest the Land Cruiser just feels so much more cheap to me… Ive off roaded 4runners and tundra’s but the Land cruiser’s transmission just felt cheap like it could break driving it on the road. The fit and finish of the GX just feels study. Thats what i’m going with. The hybrid does feel good with instant torque but not worth losing the space in the back.
I see the Lexus has Toyo Open Country ATIII tyres.
What the tyres on the Land Cruiser ?
Michelin LTX "Trail" tires
I know they are different vehicles, but how do you like the Ranger Raptor compared to the LC/GX550?
Does one need a truck or suv basically
We just finished filming Raptor vs Tacoma TRD PRO (same powertrain as LC). That video will answer the same question.
We’ll see how the turbo engines stand up over time, I like my 2023 year GX460 with the V8 engine 🥰.
I'm curious how much better then Mark Levinson is in the GX vs the JBL Land Cruiser .
What part of the Land Cruiser platform monthly subscription will have to be paid monthly after few months of free? Thanks in advance.
Don't ever forget the power of the dealership experience. I would take Lexus over Toyota for that reason alone.
Give me the LC base 1958 edition with the V6TT from the Lexus.
I think they will.
Did you know that KDSS system was invented in a small town of Western Australia?
I'm waiting for the 2025 4runner. 🙂
Durability and capability of doing things LC will always WIN ❤