First released for the 2003 model year and available through the 2009 model year, the Lexus GX 470 is a mass of off-road capability wrapped in luxury.

Despite an impressive pedigree (it is, after all, known as the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado outside of North America) and amalgamation of excellent Toyota parts, it is still somewhat of overlooked 4x4, but those in the know highly covet the GX 470 for its off-road badassery and powerful 4.7L V8 engine.

The Lexus GX was developed in the late 90s in parallel with the Toyota J120 Land Cruiser Prado. The Lexus is virtually identical to the Toyota down to the body panels, but with more luxurious options and features one would expect from the premium marque. While still a full-size and full-capability 4x4, the Prado is, of course, one of the smaller variations to the Land Cruiser.

While the J120 featured several I4 and V6 gas and diesel engine options, the GX employed the bigger 4.7L 2UZ-FE, a massive V8 equal parts performance and reliability. Both the GX and J120 share suspension components with the 4Runner and FJ Cruiser, but the GX adds some nifty tech by way of Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) and Downhill Assist Control (DAC).

Towing capacity was initially a modest 5,000 lbs., but an upgraded frame-bolted hitch starting for the 2004 model year increased capacity to 6,500 lbs.

Because a lot of GX's were purchased as family cars and spent most of their days touring the local mall, finding a well-maintained and unmolested Lexus SUV is actually not an extremely difficult task. But don't be fooled by the crayons and apple sauce pouches crammed between the soft leather seats: the 1st Generation GX was an award-winning off-road machine that took to task would-be competitors.