Lexus LX history, Differences Between the Lexus GX

Lexus LX Overview

The Lexus LX is a full-size luxury SUV that seamlessly blends rugged off-road capability with premium comfort and advanced technology. With its bold design, spacious and luxurious interior and powerful V8 engine, the LX offers a refined driving experience both on and off the road, making it a top choice for those seeking a versatile and sophisticated SUV that is derived from the historically reliable Toyota Land Cruiser.

Lexus LX Generations

To date, there are four generations of Lexus LX. Let’s take a look at them.

J80 Lexus 450 (1996-1997)

The Lexus LX 450 marked Lexus’s entry into the luxury SUV market, laying the foundation for future models. Powered by a 4.5L inline-6 with 212 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, it shared its design with the J80, including full-time 4WD, a 2-speed transfer case, and solid front and rear axles for off-roading.

Its boxy, rugged 90s look housed a true Lexus interior, featuring leather seats, wood trim, and room for seven—though the third row was a bit cramped for adults.

It came well-equipped with power seats, automatic climate control, and a Mark Levinson sound system. Pre-wired for a remote phone, it was ahead of its time. With a locking center differential and over 8 inches of ground clearance, it still had plenty of Land Cruiser off-road DNA.

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J100 Lexus 470 (1998-2002)

The 1998 Lexus LX 470 was derived from the 450, keeping luxury a priority while upgrading to a more powerful 4.7L V8 with 230 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. It retained full-time 4WD and a 2-speed transfer case but added Adaptive Variable Suspension, giving drivers more control over ride quality. The body was sleeker and more aerodynamic, yet still rugged with a bold grille and redesigned headlights, making it perfect for the luxury SUV market.

Inside, it still had leather and wood accents but offered more space, especially in the third row. The front seats were heated, and an optional Nakamichi stereo with in-dash six-disc CD changer bumped up the cabin’s sophistication. New features like navigation, a rear-seat entertainment system, and updated digital displays on the dashboard made the LX 470 feel even more modern, solidifying Lexus’s place in the luxury SUV world.

J100 Lexus LX 470 Facelift (2003-2005)

The 2003-2005 Lexus LX 470 received a facelift with an updated front bumper and grille design. It featured a new 5-speed transmission, with optional 18-inch wheels, while 17-inch tires were standard on other versions. Optional upgrades included a 6-disc DVD changer in the rear console, Bluetooth, and a backup camera. It also offered a night view infrared camera with a heads-up display, and Variable Gear Ratio Steering came standard, making tight maneuvers easier in places like parking lots.

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J100 Lexus LX 470 (2006-2007) Facelift 2

For this last iteration of the J100 Series, the 4.7L was bumped up to 275 horses via VVT-i, and the body was refreshed with a set of LED tail lights. In 2007, the Black Onyx paint scheme was billed as a Limited Edition, and only 400 were produced. This special edition featured stone leather interior, scuff plates, and special badging.

Overall, the LX 470 was named Best Luxury SUV by J.D. Power and Associates for 2000, 2002, and 2004. In 2005, they were also given the most reliable luxury SUV over three years in the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study.

J200 Lexus LX 570 (2008-2011)

The new Lexus LX 570 was completely redesigned, based on the J200 platform, and powered by a 5.7L V8 with 383 horsepower and 403 lb-ft of torque. It could tow up to 8,500 pounds and featured a 6-speed automatic transmission with a Torsen center differential for 4WD. The LX 570 was 4 inches longer and 1 inch wider than before, with a more refined look due to the removal of plastic side moldings. Built with high-tensile steel, it came with a Tundra hitch, prioritizing towing.

The suspension was upgraded to a double wishbone up front, while the rear still used a solid axle. It rode on standard 20-inch wheels and featured an electro-hydraulic system to raise the vehicle by up to 3 inches. It also came equipped with Crawl Control, Downhill Assist, and Hill-start Assist.

Inside, it kept the luxury feel of its predecessor but added four-zone climate control, a two-piece power liftgate, and even a built-in cooler in the center console. As expected, it had the latest tech, premium materials, and a top-notch sound system, earning J.D. Power’s top score in Initial Quality in 2009. A minor 2010 facelift added a new bumper, a sport body kit, and an option for a heated steering wheel.

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J200 Lexus LX 570 (2013-2015)

In 2013, the Lexus LX got a fresh look with new grille, bumpers, headlamps, tail lamps, and updated trim, including new wheel designs. The only parts carried over were the doors and roof. Inside, mahogany wood trim was added, along with a new leather option called Cashmere. Two new exterior colors, Medium Nebula Gray Pearl and Satin Cashmere Metallic, replaced Twilight Gray Metallic and Golden Almond Metallic.

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J200 Lexus LX 570 (2016-2021)

The 2015 facelift for the LX 570 was revealed at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, showcasing a completely redesigned interior with four wood trim options like Linear Espresso and Dark Brown Walnut, plus a wood-trimmed steering wheel. Lexus also added Apple’s Siri Eyes Free for turn-by-turn directions. The major tech overhaul made up for skipping tech upgrades in previous models.

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J300 Lexus LX 600 (2022-Present)

The LX 600 is powered by a new 3.5L twin-turbo V6, replacing the V8, with 409 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque for more power and efficiency. It pairs with a 10-speed automatic for smoother shifts, better acceleration, and improved fuel economy. The full-time 4WD remains, now enhanced by an updated Multi-Terrain Select system for better performance on various surfaces like mud, sand, and rocks.

Built on the new GA-F platform, shared with the Land Cruiser 300, it’s lighter, stronger, and offers better handling and comfort. The redesigned exterior features a larger spindle grille, sleek aerodynamics, full-LED headlights, and optional 22-inch alloy wheels, keeping its rugged look intact.

Inside, the LX 600 offers multiple seating options, including an “Ultra Luxury” four-seat trim with executive-class rear seats, heated/ventilated seats, ambient lighting, and smart climate control. The tech includes advanced driver assistance, lane-keeping assist, and a digital rearview mirror, alongside Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 for enhanced safety features.

Off-roading is still a focus, with Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control, and an E-KDSS suspension system for better stability and wheel articulation on tough terrain.

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Differences with Lexus GX

The Lexus LX and Lexus GX are both luxury SUVs in Lexus’s lineup, but they cater to different segments of the market and have distinct differences in terms of size, design, performance, and features.

Concept

The Lexus GX is all about blending luxury with off-road capability. Originally designed as a mid-size luxury SUV that could handle tough terrains, it has evolved to strike a perfect balance by offering the versatility to go off-road while still delivering the comfort and high-end features you’d expect from a Lexus.

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2024 Lexus GX vs. Lexus LX Specs & Dimensions Comparison

Size

The LX is a full-size SUV, making it larger and more spacious than the GX.

The GX is a mid-size SUV, which makes it smaller and more maneuverable than the LX

Platform

The LX is based on the Toyota Land Cruiser platform, which is designed for serious off-road capability.

The GX is built on the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado platform, a slightly smaller and less rugged version of the platform used by the LX.

Lexus GX vs. LX Performance Details

Engine

The LX 600 (latest generation) is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine producing 409 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. Previous generations used a naturally aspirated V8 engine.

The GX 460 is powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque.

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Performance

The LX features advanced off-road systems like Crawl Control, Multi-Terrain Select, and an adjustable height suspension system.

The GX is also capable off-road, it is slightly less advanced in this area compared to the LX. It features a full-time four-wheel-drive system with a two-speed transfer case but lacks some of the LX’s more sophisticated off-road technologies.

Off-Road features

The LX is equipped with more advanced off-road technology, including Multi-Terrain Select and an electronically controlled kinetic dynamic suspension system (E-KDSS) for extreme off-roading.

The GX includes a full-time four-wheel-drive system, a two-speed transfer case, and a Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), which is effective but less sophisticated than the LX’s E-KDSS.

Ground Clearance

The LX generally offers higher ground clearance, which can be adjusted thanks to its height-adjustable suspension.

The GX has good ground clearance but is less adjustable compared to the LX.

Lexus GX vs. LX Interior Space Comparison

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Interior

The LX offers a more luxurious and spacious interior with higher-end materials, more advanced technology, and additional comfort features. It includes options like a four-seat Ultra Luxury configuration, a larger infotainment system with dual screens, and a Mark Levinson 25-speaker sound system.

The GX offers a less opulent interior. It has seating for up to seven passengers but with less space, especially in the third row.

Technology

The LX is equipped with the latest Lexus Interface system, offering a more advanced and intuitive infotainment experience. It also includes more comprehensive driver assistance features.

The GX features an older infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, and while it offers many modern amenities, it lacks some of the cutting-edge technology found in the LX. It also has fewer advanced driver assistance systems compared to the LX.

Lexus GX vs. LX Trims

The Lexus GX and LX are both luxury SUVs, but they cater to different market segments and offer various trim levels with distinct features.

The GX is smaller, more affordable, and suited for those who prioritize a balance between off-road performance and daily driving comfort. On the other hand, the LX offers a higher level of luxury, advanced technology, and powerful performance. It’s a larger, more premium SUV designed for those who want the best of both luxury and off-road capability, with options for ultra-luxury and sport-oriented trims.

Here’s a comparison of the trims available for each model, highlighting their key differences:

The Lexus LX is a full-size luxury SUV, offering more space, power, and luxury features compared to the GX.

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1. Lexus LX 600

• Base model
• Engine: 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine with 409 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque
• Full-time four-wheel drive with Multi-Terrain Select
• 20-inch alloy wheels
• Leather upholstery with heated and ventilated front seats
• 12.3-inch upper touchscreen for navigation and vehicle controls, 7-inch lower touchscreen for climate and audio controls
• Four-zone automatic climate control
• Power-folding third-row seats
• Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection

2. Lexus LX 600 Premium

• Enhanced Features
• 21-inch alloy wheels
• Enhanced interior with additional wood trim and upgraded leather upholstery
• Heated and ventilated second-row seats
• Power-reclining and folding third-row seats
• Premium audio system with more speakers
• Optional Mark Levinson 25-speaker surround sound system

3. Lexus LX 600 Luxury

• Top Trim (Luxury Focus)
• 22-inch alloy wheels
• Semi-aniline leather upholstery
• Heated wood and leather-trimmed steering wheel
• Enhanced ambient lighting
• Rear-seat entertainment system with dual screens
• Power tailgate with hands-free access
• Advanced driver assistance features, including a heads-up display and 360-degree camera system

4. Lexus LX 600 Ultra Luxury

• Ultimate Luxury Trim
• Exclusive four-seat configuration with executive-style rear seats, including reclining, massage functions, and a center console with a touchscreen
• Upgraded interior materials, including special wood trim and ultra-premium leather
• Rear-seat entertainment system with dual screens and wireless headphones
• Advanced climate control system with rear-seat climate concierge
• Mark Levinson 25-speaker premium audio system standard

5. Lexus LX 600 F SPORT

• Sport-Oriented Trim
• Unique exterior styling with sportier design elements, including a distinctive grille and F SPORT badging
• 22-inch forged alloy wheels with a more aggressive design
• Performance-tuned suspension for improved handling
• F SPORT interior with exclusive sport seats, aluminum pedals, and unique interior trim
• Enhanced steering response and sportier driving dynamics

Meanwhile, the Lexus GX is a mid-size luxury SUV, known for its strong off-road capabilities and premium features. The trims for the GX are generally simpler compared to the LX, reflecting its slightly lower positioning in the Lexus SUV lineup.

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1. Lexus GX 460

• Base model
• Engine: 4.6-liter V8 engine with 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque
• Full-time four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case
• 18-inch alloy wheels
• NuLuxe synthetic leather upholstery
• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Power-adjustable front seats.
• Lexus Safety System+ suite, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and automatic emergency braking
• Interior: 7-passenger seating with a 40/20/40-split second-row seat and fold-flat third-row seats
• Off-Road Capability: Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), Crawl Control, and Multi-Terrain Select (available as an option)

2. Lexus GX 460 Premium

• Enhanced Features
• Adds heated and ventilated front seats
• Upgraded interior materials, including wood trim
• Tri-zone automatic climate control
• Premium audio system with more speakers
• Optional captain’s chairs for the second row, reducing seating to six but increasing comfort
• Optional navigation system and Mark Levinson premium audio

3. Lexus GX 460 Luxury

• Top Trim
• Adds adaptive variable suspension (AVS)
• Semi-aniline leather upholstery
• Power-folding and auto-dimming mirrors
• Wood and leather-trimmed heated steering wheel
• Standard navigation system with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound audio system
• Optional off-road package, which includes Multi-Terrain Monitor, fuel tank protector, transmission cooler, and Crawl Control

Lexus GX vs. LX Safety & Technology

When comparing the safety and technology features of the Lexus GX and Lexus LX, it’s clear that both vehicles offer a high level of safety and advanced technology, but the Lexus LX, being the flagship model, generally comes with more cutting-edge features and newer technology due to its higher position in the Lexus lineup.

In summary, The LX comes with the latest and most advanced safety and technology features Lexus offers, making it a more luxurious and high-tech option. It’s better suited for buyers who want cutting-edge technology, more advanced driver assistance features, and a premium on-road and off-road experience. Meanwhile, the GX offers robust safety and technology features that are well-suited for a mid-size luxury SUV, particularly emphasizing off-road capability and practicality. Its technology suite is comprehensive but slightly dated compared to the LX.

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Here’s a detailed comparison:

1. Safety Features

Lexus LX

• Lexus Safety System+ 2.5: This updated suite includes more advanced features compared to the GX, such as an improved Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, and adaptive high beams
• Advanced Airbag System: The LX also features an advanced airbag system with additional airbags, including side airbags for all rows
• Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Standard on the LX, providing enhanced awareness around the vehicle
• 360-Degree Camera System: Standard on most trims, offering a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings, which is particularly useful for parking and maneuvering in tight spaces
• Head-Up Display: Projects important information like speed and navigation directions onto the windshield, allowing the driver to keep their eyes on the road
• Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Off-Road Assist: The LX features enhanced stability control systems tailored for both on-road and off-road driving
• Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Monitor: Advanced off-road safety features that assist in difficult terrains by automatically managing the throttle and brakes, and providing real-time views of the terrain around the vehicle

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Lexus GX

• Lexus Safety System+: This includes key safety features like a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert, High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Intelligent High Beams
• Airbags: The GX is equipped with 10 airbags, including front, side, knee, and curtain airbags
• Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Available as an option, providing extra awareness when changing lanes or reversing
• Backup Camera: Standard, with optional intuitive parking assist
• Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC): These systems help maintain control during challenging driving conditions
• Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC): Prevents the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on an incline

2. Technology Features

Lexus LX

Infotainment System:

• Dual-Screen Setup: The LX features a more advanced 12.3-inch upper touchscreen for navigation and vehicle controls, paired with a 7-inch lower touchscreen for climate and audio controls, offering a more intuitive and responsive user experience
• Mark Levinson Audio System: Available on higher trims with 25 speakers, providing an immersive audio experience that surpasses the GX’s audio options.
• Navigation System: More advanced with cloud-based services, real-time traffic updates, and a more refined interface

Driver Assistance Technology:

• Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control: Includes more sophisticated features like stop-and-go functionality and can maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead even in stop-and-go traffic
• Digital Rearview Mirror: Displays a live feed from the rear camera, providing an unobstructed view regardless of passengers or cargo
• Remote Touch Interface with Touchpad: More advanced and responsive compared to the GX, although the touchpad controls have received mixed reviews for ease of use

Connectivity:

• Lexus Interface: The latest infotainment system with voice assistant capabilities, 5G connectivity, and the ability to receive over-the-air updates
• Wireless Charging: Standard on most trims, offering convenient charging for compatible devices
• Multi-Zone Climate Control: Includes a more advanced system with a climate concierge, which automatically adjusts the climate settings to the occupants’ preferences
• Head-Up Display: Provides critical information directly on the windshield, helping the driver stay focused on the road

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Lexus GX

Infotainment System:

• Touchscreen Display: The GX comes with an 8-inch touchscreen, which is relatively smaller compared to the LX. It includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration
• Audio System: Standard models come with a 9-speaker sound system; while higher trims can be equipped with a premium Mark Levinson surround sound system with 17 speakers
• Navigation System: Available as an option, the navigation system provides standard guidance and traffic updates but lacks some of the more advanced features found in the LX

Driver Assistance Technology:

• Adaptive Cruise Control: Standard, but with less advanced functionality compared to the LX’s system
• Intuitive Parking Assist: Available on higher trims, providing sensors that assist with parking
• Remote Touch Interface: Controls the infotainment system, though it is considered less user-friendly compared to more modern systems

Connectivity:

• Smartphone Integration: Supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa
• Voice Command: Basic voice command functionality is included for controlling navigation and audio

Is the Lexus GX or LX better?

Both vehicles offer luxury and reliability with strong off-road capabilities, but they are for different market segments. When trying to decide which is better, you need to compare the two vehicles and read reviews. Here are some comparisons, as well as reviews:

Performance and Driving Experience

The LX 600, with its newer 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine producing 409 horsepower, offers a more powerful and smoother driving experience. It’s built on the GA-F platform, shared with the Toyota Land Cruiser 300, which contributes to better on-road handling and ride comfort.

The GX is powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, providing 301 horsepower. It’s known for its solid off-road capabilities thanks to its body-on-frame construction, full-time four-wheel drive, and features like the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS).

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Interior and Technology

The LX offers a much more luxurious and tech-forward interior. It features a dual-screen infotainment system, with a 12.3-inch upper display and a 7-inch lower display, along with a head-up display and the latest Lexus Interface system. The materials used in the LX are top-notch, and it offers options like semi-aniline leather and a four-seat “Ultra Luxury” configuration with rear executive seating.

The GX has a well-appointed but somewhat dated interior, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The materials are high-quality, but the design and technology lag behind more modern luxury SUVs. The third-row seating is tight, and overall, the cabin feels less spacious than the LX.

Safety

The LX 600 features Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, which includes more advanced safety features such as pedestrian detection, lane tracing assist, and a 360-degree camera system.

The GX comes with Lexus Safety System+, which includes basic safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and pre-collision warning. However, it lacks some of the more advanced driver assistance technologies found in the LX.

Customer Satisfaction and Reviews

Lexus LX

The LX receives high marks for its luxurious interior, advanced technology, and superior comfort. Some of the biggest complaints come from those looking for a smooth ride on the highway. It’s heavy and better suited for off-roading.

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Lexus GX

Customers appreciate the GX for its reliability, off-road capability, and durable construction. However, some owners note that the design and technology feel outdated compared to other luxury SUVs.

Overall Verdict

The Lexus LX is generally considered the better option if you prioritize luxury, advanced technology, and a smooth, powerful driving experience. It’s more expensive, but it offers a more refined and comfortable ride with the latest features.

The Lexus GX is a great choice if you need a more affordable luxury SUV with excellent off-road capabilities and proven reliability. It’s ideal for those who need a rugged vehicle but don’t require the latest in luxury or technology.

If budget is not a concern and you want the best Lexus has to offer, the LX is the superior choice. However, if you need something less expensive, the GX might be the better fit.

If you are in the market for an LX, go to FLEX

Flex is your go-to place for a Lexus LX. As the number one dealer of Land Cruisers in Japan – 80 locations to date – you’ll find that we’re able to get the Lexus – or Land Cruiser – that you want for your off-roading experience.

In addition, you can buy Land Cruiser 80, 100 and 200 at FLEX!

In addition to the Lexus LX, we also have 80 Series, 100 Series, and 200 Series available at Flex. Our San Diego showroom is home to three Renoca series, as well. We offer retro-mod Land Cruisers for those who have a more adventurous spirit and want something that looks old but has all of the latest technology. In addition, we can make a Renoca from a Lexus too, so you have many choices. Stop by or contact us today, and let’s talk about the car of your dreams.