It may be a tougher choice than you’d expect.
The current generation Toyota Land Cruiser has been around for well over a decade, with relatively minor changes throughout its lifespan. While other cars may not be able to get away with that, this one’s an exception. The Land Cruiser is exceptionally built, with no squeaks or rattles on our 2008 long-term example. It’s capable off-road, thanks to its full-time four-wheel drive system. It’s comfortable, practical and powerful with its 5.7-liter V8 engine. That said, it is missing a few modern features that would make it an even better machine.
Now, you can’t fault it for that — our Land Cruiser is over 10 years old. And while the modern Land Cruiser is an appropriate point of comparison, Toyota did not have one available for us to use at this exact moment. However, those of you out there who know a thing or two will know there is an alternative. More specifically, there’s the Land Cruiser’s more luxurious cousin: the Lexus LX 570. While it does have more modern features, it sports the same platform and powertrain underneath.
The new Lexus LX 570 shares its 5.7-liter V8, body-on frame chassis setup and automatic transmission (now an 8-speed unit, compared to a six-speed in the old Land Cruiser). Both vehicles have a 112.2-inch wheelbase, as well as a solid rear axle with independent front suspension. Unlike the Land Cruiser, however, the LX 570 does have air suspension, one of the things the older Toyota lacks.
Inside, the new Lexus LX 570 — shown here in two-row configuration for 2019 — has a more up-to-date infotainment system, as you’d expect. The Lexus Enform system includes Amazon Alexa integration. There’s also a host of safety features in Lexus Safety System+ like pre-collision assist, radar cruise control and lane departure warning).
Similar, yet different
Then there’s design. Yes, both the Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus LX 570 ride on the same platform. However, Lexus has moved its design language away from the conventional Land Cruiser, making it more striking and luxurious, even in appearance, than the humble Toyota. Take interior features and comfort into account, and the new Lexus 570 is quite different than its older Toyota sibling.
Here’s the thing, however. The 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser still features a decent amount of tech, particularly for its time. You still get power-folding mirrors, you still get that four-wheel drive system, and you still get a comfortable ride, if not quite as plush as the Lexus. What’s more, since it’s used, it’s $60,000 than the $88,940 asking price for the two-row Lexus LX 570. So, if you don’t need a machine with all the thrills, an older Toyota Land Cruiser might be your best bet.
Which would you buy? Let us know in the comments below!
