The Lexus GX gets a reputation as a "Baby Land Cruiser", but don't let that moniker fool you: it's every bit a capable and fun fourbie - especially when it's dressed up in the right blend of off-road and overland upgrades.
The good folks at Roam Overland Outfitters have done just that, transforming this 2011 Lexus GX 460 from grandpa's daily driver to a total overlanding behemoth.
But don't take our word for it. Jimmy, take it away:
What is the Lexus GX?
The Lexus GX is the North America iteration of what the rest of the world knows as the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado - a smaller variation of the standard, full-sized Land Cruiser. Following the successful launch of the Lexus LX (based on the full-sized Land Cruiser), Lexus introduced the GX during the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in 2002, and made the GX available for the 2003 model year.
It sits in an interesting slot between the Land Cruiser & LX and the Toyota 4Runner. It shared much of the underpinning with the forth generation 4Runner, but the GX was taller, had the standard V8, standard third row, standard 4-wheel drive, and all the luxury fittings you'd expect out of a Lexus with a $44,925 MSRP.
Overland Lexus LX 460 Equipment.
The Lexus GX has sat in a precarious position since it first hit the market. It is often seen as the "little brother" to the Lexus LX in terms of luxury and Toyota Land Cruiser in terms of off-road performance. While not quite as expensive, if you're after off-road performance, you'll get better value from the 4Runner. On the asphalt, it competes in a tough market against the likes of the Audi Q7, BMW X5, and Acura MDX.
The GX, in contrast, suffers from poor fuel efficiency, soft suspension and braking, and heft.
But with a few minor modifications, the GX quickly hits its stride as an overlander. That's exactly what the pros as Roam Overland Outfitters have done. You won't find a two-speed transfer case in its standard competitors, save for the Land Rover Discovery. The soft suspension is countered by new Dobinsons suspension, which also augments the 8.1 in. of ground clearance. Suddenly the 4.6L V8 isn't about how quickly you can get the kids to soccer practice, but how easily the fuss-free motor takes you to your next overland adventure.
Simply stated, the Lexus GX is an underrated 4x4 and a rare combination of luxury and performance, and Roam Overland Outfitters has built one impressive example.
Factory Highlights:
- 118,775 miles
- 4.6L EFI V8
- 301 hp., 329 lb.-ft.
- 6-Speed Automatic
- 23-Gallon Fuel Tank
- Double Wishbone Front Suspension
- 4-Link Rigid Rear Axle
- Full-Time 4-Wheel Drive
- Torsen LSD
- Rear Air Suspension
- 6-Disc CD Changer
- 4.2 in. Information Display
Upgrades & Modifications:
- Dobinsons Suspension
- Front Runner Slimline II Roof Rack
- Falcon Off-Road Wheels
- Falken Wildpeak M/T Tires
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