2025 Lexus GX 550 Vs Land Cruiser – Most In-Depth Comparison!

So it’s the battle of two top-notch off-road machines, Lexus GX 550 Vs Land Cruiser. Now, before we start, let’s clear a few things first:

• Both GX 550 and Land Cruiser are capable off-road machines
• You get multi-terrain drive modes and crawl mode for better traction on mud, snow, and rocks.
• Underbody protection is also offered for enhanced off-roading.

That being said, there is still so much more to the table. That’s why, we took both these SUVs, tested them to their limits, and here we are with the comparison. In this guide, we will compare Lexus GX 550 Overtrail+ with the Toyota Land Cruiser. Let’s find who wins this battle!

2025 Land Cruiser Vs Lexus GX 550 – Differences

So, the 1st things 1st. I know you all want to know the difference between Lexus GX 550 and the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser. So, here is a brief rundown:

• GX opts for a V6 (349 HP) powertrain while Land Cruiser comes with an in-line four-cylinder powertrain (326 HP).
• Land Cruiser has an interior with more of a retro feel. GX 550 offers a more luxurious interior with all-leather upholstery and modern tech features.
• GX 550 comes in six trims where as 2025 Land Cruiser only comes in two trim levels (LC and 1958 to be specific).
• Land Cruiser starts at $56,700. GX 550’s base price is $66,185.
• GX 550 also offers class-leading towing capacity (9063 lbs compared to 6000 lbs on Land Cruiser).

Lexus GX 550 Vs Land Cruiser – Similarities

Now, let us highlight the similarities of both these full time 4WD SUVs. So, here’s a brief rundown:

• Both share the same body on frame construction (TNGA-F body-on-frame platform, to be specific).
• You get a centre locking differential with a rear locking differential as option on both SUVs.
• Both these SUVs are fully equipped with the industry’s leading safety features (Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 for LC and Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 for GX 550).

Lexus GX 550 Vs Land Cruiser Specs

Before we dive any further, here is a detailed specification of both these off-road machines.

Lexus GX 550 Vs Land Cruiser – Engine & Transmission

Now, let’s move on to some of the basics. Lexus GX 550 Overtrail+ is the fully loaded (off-road-centric) trim. Therefore, we have chosen this to compare it with the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser’s top trim. The GX 550 (all trims) comes with a hybrid powertrain, which on paper might not seem that interesting. However, it offers 349 HP and 479 lb-ft of torque.

Its coupled with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Land Cruiser on the other hand, also brings in surprising power figures (given the fact it has a four-cylinder engine). The 2.4L in-line turbocharged engine produces 326 HP and 465 lb-ft of torque. That’s surely some impressive figures. Further, the transmission here is an 8-speed automatic one.

So, on paper, the difference is there. But what about the real-world performance? During my test ride, I found the GX 550 to be better on both off-road and city driving conditions. However, please note Land Cruiser offers better 4×4 features. For example, it has a better approach angle.

GX 550 still coped pretty well with the Land Cruiser. I’m sure the Lexus GX 550 Overtrail+ trim would beat the Land Cruiser on any rough terrain. Land Cruiser’s drive isn’t bad at all. Its super smooth (thanks it its I-Force Max Hybrid Powertrain), and does wonders on rough terrains.

With crawl control and multi-terrain select features (Only standard on GX 550 OT and OT+ trims), it really shines out.

On top of it, Land Cruiser also has a better approach angle (~31°), breakover (~25°), and departure (~22°), which makes it an ideal full time 4WD SUV.

So yes, despite an in-line 4-cylinder hybrid powertrain, Land Cruiser beats the GX 550 Luxury+ in terms of 4WD options and flexibility.

Now this doesn’t mean GX 550 isn’t off-road centric. The Overtrail and Overtrail+ trims are especially designed to compete with all types of off-road challenges. As mentioned before, I considered the top-of-the-line Luxury+ trim.

Lexus GX 550 Vs Land Cruiser – Price

When it comes to price, there are some differences. Lexus (no matter which trim you opt for) has a premium asking price. I think that’s pretty normal for a Lexus SUV. Therefore, GX 550 starts at $66185 and goes all the way up to $81645.

On the other hand, the Toyota Land Cruiser has a straightforward pricing structure. That’s because it comes in just two trim levels. So, the base trim (Land Cruiser 1958) costs $56700. Whereas the top-of-the-line trim costs $61470. Here is a detailed breakdown of GX 550 and Land Cruiser’s price.

Lexus GX 550 Vs Land Cruiser Reliability

Toyota and Lexus aren’t much behind when it comes to reliability. I mean, both these brands have proven record when it comes to the reliability aspect. Now, of course, both these machines have tons and tons of mechanical and electrical components. So, a minor issue can rise sometime. However, the good aspects is that these SUVs come with limited warranty period. So, for at least next 5-8 years (Depending on warranty cycle), you have that peace of mind.

To be specific, Land Cruiser comes with 3 years or 60,000 miles of basic warranty. The powertrain warranty is up to 5 years or 60,000 miles (whichever comes first). Toyota also offers hybrid system warranty for Land Cruiser (8 years of 100,000 miles).

If we talk about the GX, you get 4 years or 50,000 miles base warranty. For powertrain, the warranty cycle is 6 years or 70,000 miles. So, in terms of reliability, there isn’t any major concern here. The comprehensive warranty coverage and the brand’s legacy here are enough to justify its reliability aspect.

Lexus GX 550 Vs Land Cruiser – Off-Road

I drove the GX 550 and Land Cruiser to their limits and I’m impressed by how well they handle all types of terrain. To start off with GX, I was pleasantly surprised by its electronic kinetic dynamic suspension system (E-KDSS). This system automatically engages stabiliser bars based on the type of terrain you are on. It really gave me the confidence that I can take my GX 550 to any type of terrain.

On top of it, GX 550 (OT and OT+) also offers an inch extra ground clearance, which does help in off-roading. Now coming to the Land Cruiser, I really like the steering design on the first glance. It gives that retro feel (GX offers more of a comfy feel), which I really like. Talking about the drive, it’s super smooth, the cabin is noiseless for the most part.

I took the LC off-road, and was impressed by its off-road capabilities. The better approach angle and a more robust multi terrain mode really help it steer past any type of terrain. It may not have an active (E-KDSS) suspension system, but it still manages to conquer a variety of terrains.

Lexus GX 550 Vs Land Cruiser – Configurations

This time, Toyota kept things a lot simple; they have just 2 trim levels to offer for Land Cruiser. One is the 1958 trim, and the other one is Simple Land Cruiser. Now, the 1958 trim level is for those old school Toyota lovers who want to feel that toughness and rigidness, Toyota offers.

It has round LED headlamps and cloth upholstery. You get an 8-inch infotainment system with 6 speakers. Whereas the top-of-the-line Land Cruiser premium has an aggressive front grill with rectangular shaped LED headlamps, a 12.3-inch multi-information display and premium audio system.

If we talk about the GX 550, it’s got plenty of trims to offer. Basically, GX has three trim levels and all three trims have a plus variant (with some additional add-ons of course). So, you get Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+ Overtrail and Overtrail+. According to Lexus, the premium variants are for those who want to access all the off-road ruggedness GX offers at an affordable price.

Similarly, the premium variants are for enthusiasts who want that unmatched luxury on top of full time 4WD powertrain. Lastly, the Overtrail trim is the fully off-road-centric GX. It offers additional 4×4 assisted features and enhanced comfort at the same time.

Lexus GX 550 Vs Land Cruiser – Final Thoughts!

To wrap up, it is really tough to declare one of these SUVs as a winner. I think both performed really well during my testing. However, I must say, I’m dully impressed by the combination of luxury feel and unmatched full time 4WD system the GX 550 offers. It’s something a lot of off-road enthusiasts like me have always wanted.

That being said, the 2025 Land Cruiser is also an impressive full time 4WD SUV. It’s built for those who cannot compromise on any aspect of a off-road adventure. From its retro shape, to its unmatched performance on all types of terrain, its for sure a considerable machine. After pushing these SUVs to their limits, I’d better leave it on you to decide which one to opt for. I’m sure you now have enough data and information to better decide.

Anyhow, Flex Automotive has Land Cruiser and GX 500 available in its inventory. We also have plenty of these SUVs readily available for sale. If you own one, get it customized by us. Click on the button below to access more information on these SUVs.