Test Drive: 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser
The Toyota Land Cruiser has, for decades, been a peak example of near off-roading perfection.
This heritage of rugged know-how sometimes came at a cost. Sacrificing creature-comforts and good on-road manners. Recently, Toyota has made enormous strides to polish the Land Cruiser for peak performance both on and off the road. But for a truly optimal mix of luxury and un-compromised off-road expertise, look no further than the 2020 Lexus LX 570.
This mighty Lexus is built on the same platform as the coveted Land Cruiser. Under the skin, it’s largely the exact same vehicle. From the standard 4-wheel drive system and 8-speed automatic transmission to the same 5.7L V8 engine sourced from the Toyota Tundra.
Both vehicles are even equipped with nearly identical features and technology tidbits. The long list consisting of basically every sensor, safety feature, driving aid, and luxurious amenity Toyota has in its repertoire. Except for maybe a higher quality 19-speaker Mark Levinson sound system in the Lexus.
Similar to the two are in some areas, when it comes to the quality of interior materials used and overall refinement in the cabin, the LX 570 really differentiates itself. Great visibility and a high seating position are the same between the two. However, dashboard design, the infotainment center, and general aesthetics are much more modern and luxurious in the LX, when compared to the more utilitarian approach of the Land Cruiser. The LX delivers a mix of rich leather,
deeply colored walnut wood, metal trim, and padded interior panels. Everything beautifully assembled and thoughtfully paired to compliment each other and create a space that you can’t help but enjoy immensely. Buyers beware though, the LX 570 seats fewer people than the Land Cruiser.
Lexus continues to distance its aesthetics from the Land Cruiser even further on the outside. While earlier LX models offered very similar styling to the Land Cruiser, now the two vehicles couldn’t be more different. While the Land Cruiser remains brawny and all-business, the 2020 LX 570 is more bold, modern, and aggressive. All while conveying an elevated level of luxury the Land Cruiser has never aspired too. Most noticeable is the large spindle grille. Statement-making 21” split 10-spoke wheels seem right at home on the big SUV. Headlamps and taillights are packed with LED’s and have sharply drawn lines. Other obvious differences really separate the two vehicles. A smart move by Toyota, helping the LX 570 stand alone as a truly unique off-roading option with elevated visuals and some serious luxury treatment.
These changes have helped elevate the LX 570 to a level never before achieved. Placing it alongside the likes of Range Rover, and maybe even the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen. It’s earned its spot in an elite class of SUV. Gigantic, highly capable off-road, all without compromising an impressive level of luxury. A soft, supple comfort while navigating from soccer practice to the grocery store. Even if the short-cut between the two places is a rock-strewn path through the desert.
Price as tested: $100,540.00
