What Lexus models are Land Cruisers?
The Lexus equivalent to Toyota's Land Cruiser is the Lexus LX; there is no Lexus model named "Land Cruiser." The LX line serves as Lexus's premium counterpart to the rugged Toyota SUV, with the current LX 600 introduced in 2022 and the LX 570 preceding it.
In this report, we explore how Lexus positions the LX within its lineup, and outline the generations that have carried the Land Cruiser lineage under the Lexus badge.
Lexus LX: the luxury sibling of Toyota's Land Cruiser
Lexus frames the LX as a premium off-roader that borrows its underlying engineering from Toyota's Land Cruiser platforms. While Land Cruiser models in Toyota's lineup are known for rugged capability and durability, the Lexus LX emphasizes luxury materials, refined ride quality, and advanced technology, while maintaining strong off-road credentials.
Key LX generations and their Land Cruiser roots
Lexus LX 470 (1999–2007)
The LX 470 was the early Lexus flagship SUV in many markets and was built on the Toyota Land Cruiser 100 Series platform. It defined Lexus's approach to combining luxury interiors with serious off-road capability.
Lexus LX 570 (2008–2021)
The LX 570 replaced the LX 470 and adopted the Toyota Land Cruiser 200 Series platform. It offered a premium interior and, at launch, a V8 engine, cementing the LX as the luxury alternative to the Land Cruiser.
Lexus LX 600 (2022–present)
The current generation, the LX 600, marks the latest evolution and uses a modern, more efficient platform shared with the latest Toyota Land Cruiser lineage (notably the 300 Series in many markets). It features contemporary technology and luxury while retaining off-road capability.
Branding and global availability
Across markets, Toyota's Land Cruiser remains the name used for Toyota's rugged SUV, while Lexus uses the LX badge for its premium variant. The LX line consistently mirrors the Land Cruiser's platform and engineering, but is branded and packaged as a distinct, luxury-oriented model family by Lexus. Availability can vary by country, with some regions offering different engine options or trim levels.
Summary
In short, if you’re asking which Lexus models are Land Cruisers, the answer is that Lexus does not sell a model called "Land Cruiser"—it sells the LX. The LX family has evolved from the LX 470 to the LX 570, and today’s LX 600 represents the modern luxury side of the Land Cruiser lineage, sharing engineering with Toyota’s off-road lineup while delivering Lexus-grade refinement.
Is the Lexus GX460 a Land Cruiser?
No, the Lexus GX 460 is not a "Land Cruiser" in the strictest sense, but it is based on the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado platform and is considered a luxury version of the Prado. The GX 460 is the version of the Land Cruiser Prado that was sold in North America under the Lexus brand, often distinguished by a V8 engine and added luxury features.
You can watch this video to learn how the Lexus GX 460 is based on the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado: 56sKEdRevsYouTube · Oct 10, 2021
- Family relationship: The GX 460 shares its platform with the Land Cruiser Prado, making them "step-siblings" with shared underpinnings.
- Market positioning: The Lexus GX is the luxury trim level, while the Toyota Land Cruiser (in its various forms) is positioned as a more rugged, less luxurious off-roader.
- Regional differences: The GX 460 was the name used for the Land Cruiser Prado in North America. Other markets may have different models or designations for the same vehicle.
- Mechanical differences: While sharing a platform, there can be other differences between the GX and other Land Cruiser models, such as engines, suspension, and features.
Is the Lexus GX 550 the same as the Land Cruiser?
No, the Lexus GX 550 and the Toyota Land Cruiser are not the same, though they share the same TNGA-F platform and are similar in many ways. The main differences lie in their powertrains, styling, and interior features, with the GX having a more powerful twin-turbo V6 and more luxurious finishes, while the Land Cruiser uses a hybrid system and has a more rugged, utilitarian design.
| Feature | Lexus GX 550 | Toyota Land Cruiser |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Twin-turbo 3.4L V6 | Hybrid 2.4L 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 349 hp | 326 hp |
| Torque | 479 lb-ft | 465 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Styling | More angular and luxury-focused front end | Boxier, more utilitarian look |
| Suspension | Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) | Disconnecting front stabilizer bar |
| Seating | Available with a third row | Standard two rows |
| Fuel Economy | 15 mpg city / 21 mpg highway | 22 mpg city / 25 mpg highway |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 9,000 lbs | Up to 6,000 lbs |
| Price | More expensive | Less expensive |
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In essence, the Land Cruiser is the more rugged, hybrid-powered, and affordable option, while the GX 550 is the more powerful, luxurious, and premium version built on the same foundation.
You can watch this video to see a detailed comparison of the Lexus GX 550 and Toyota Land Cruiser, including their exterior and interior differences: 55sPerformance LexusYouTube · Jun 14, 2025
Key differences at a glance
- Engine and performance: The GX has a more powerful twin-turbo V6 engine, while the Land Cruiser uses a more fuel-efficient hybrid system.
- Luxury and interior: The GX features more premium interior materials and is available with a third row of seats, whereas the Land Cruiser is more utilitarian and typically comes with two rows.
- Off-road features: Both have impressive off-road technology, but the GX uses Lexus's E-KDSS for its suspension, while the Land Cruiser features a simpler disconnecting stabilizer bar.
- Dimensions and practicality: The GX is slightly longer and taller, which allows for more cargo space behind the second row and a third-row option. The Land Cruiser's hybrid battery placement limits some cargo space.
Is the Lexus LX the same as the Land Cruiser?
Yes, the Lexus LX is essentially a luxury version of the Toyota Land Cruiser, sharing the same platform and core mechanical components. The main differences are that the Lexus LX has a more premium interior, a higher price point, and often includes more luxury and convenience features, while the Toyota Land Cruiser is focused on rugged utility and off-road capability.
You can watch this video to learn more about the similarities and differences between the Lexus LX and Toyota Land Cruiser: 59sDriving Sports TVYouTube · May 29, 2025
- Shared DNA: From the first generation, the Lexus LX has been built on the Toyota Land Cruiser platform. This means they share fundamental engineering, including the chassis and drivetrain.
- Luxury vs. Ruggedness: The Lexus LX is designed to be the luxurious counterpart, with a focus on premium materials, advanced technology, and a more comfortable ride. The Land Cruiser prioritizes durability and off-road performance, with a more utilitarian design.
- Feature Differences: While the underlying vehicle is the same, the Lexus LX typically offers features not available on the Land Cruiser, such as more advanced infotainment systems, higher-end upholstery, and additional comfort amenities like heated and cooled seats.
- Market positioning: The LX is the luxury version sold under the Lexus brand, while the Land Cruiser is sold under the Toyota brand. In some global markets, a model similar to the U.S. Lexus LX is sold as the Land Cruiser 300, making the LX the U.S. version of that model.
This video demonstrates the off-road capabilities of the Lexus LX: 55sTFLoffroadYouTube · Sep 29, 2025
What is the Lexus version of a Land Cruiser?
The Lexus version of the Toyota Land Cruiser is the Lexus GX, as they share the same platform and are both body-on-frame SUVs built for off-road capability. The GX is considered the more luxurious and high-end version, while the Land Cruiser is built with a more durable, practical, and rugged focus.
You can watch this video to see a comparison of the two vehicles: 1mEverydayDriverYouTube · Jan 9, 2025
Key differences between the Lexus GX and Toyota Land Cruiser
- Powertrain:
- Lexus GX: Features a more powerful twin-turbocharged 3.43.43.4L V6 engine.
- Toyota Land Cruiser: Uses a more fuel-efficient hybrid 2.42.42.4L turbo i-FORCE MAX engine.
- Luxury and interior:
- Lexus GX: Offers a more upscale interior with premium finishes and luxury technology.
- Toyota Land Cruiser: Has a more practical, durable, and minimalist interior design.
- Price:
- Lexus GX: Has a higher starting price.
- Toyota Land Cruiser: Is more budget-friendly, with a lower starting MSRP.
- Off-road equipment:
- Lexus GX: Often comes equipped with running boards.
- Toyota Land Cruiser: Features more rugged accessories like rock rails.
- Towing capacity:
- Lexus GX: Can tow up to 8,0008 comma 0008,000 pounds (on Premium and Overtrail trims).
- Toyota Land Cruiser: Has a lower towing capacity of 6,0006 comma 0006,000 pounds.
