Finally ready to join LC community with a 200-Series, looking for advice

[bloc]

Keep in mind that is not the case with all years of the 200 series. I actually didn't even know that about the earlier gen radar cruise controls, but on my 2021 I can set the radar at whatever speed I want. It is definitely not the most refined system compared to others in regards to distance and how long it takes to register no cars in front when moving to pass, but I thought it worked exceptionally well on a recent 2500 mile road trip I just did. Not saying that is solely worth considering a facelifted 200, but it is definitely food for thought

Any speed cruise is a recent feature. It does seem the 16+ implementation was better than my 13-15 but it sounds like OP is in that year range for a few reasons. Probably similar reasons as myself, actually.

Also, plenty of 13-15 owners use it, don’t get me wrong. It’s just that I and others have found manual cruise better at the end of the day on this version. I wouldn’t at all let that feature keep me from an otherwise great LX, is what I should have said above.

 

[mycars]

@HSTexan and @bloc, you guys read my mind. I was wondering if the radar cruise had improved over the years and if so, at what point (ie. the 2016 facelift). Thanks for that information. And I'm guessing the system has stayed the same from 2016 on... in other words a 2021 LC would have the same radar cruise as a 2016. I'll do some more research into this topic. Thanks again.

 

[bloc]

@HSTexan and @bloc, you guys read my mind. I was wondering if the radar cruise had improved over the years and if so, at what point (ie. the 2016 facelift). Thanks for that information. And I'm guessing the system has stayed the same from 2016 on... in other words a 2021 LC would have the same radar cruise as a 2016. I'll do some more research into this topic. Thanks again.

I would research it. Toyota changed a few things in 2018 and I vaguely recall this being in the list. I do know that as of 16 the LX radar cruise leapt ahead of the LC in functionality.. but don't know the specifics. There are a few threads that go into differences over the years. @Madtiger knows a bunch of them.

 

[Tex68w]

It's better but it's still not as fluid and responsive as other systems on the market. I use it from time to time but I am not in love with it so I wouldn't get hung up on it.

 

[Madtiger]

@HSTexan and @bloc, you guys read my mind. I was wondering if the radar cruise had improved over the years and if so, at what point (ie. the 2016 facelift). Thanks for that information. And I'm guessing the system has stayed the same from 2016 on... in other words a 2021 LC would have the same radar cruise as a 2016. I'll do some more research into this topic. Thanks again.

For LC:

2020+: new front differential design…maybe better/stronger differential carrier??

2018+: KDSS bolt change, automatically power-folding outside mirrors, late-2018s have new radiator design, powered lift gate, non-mandatory rear entertainment, newer transmission software (flashable on 2016-2017), and new key (very cool) design.

2016+ LC also gains bigger front brakes, 8-speed auto, semi-aniline leather of the LX, and has better buttons arrangement than prior years.

As far as radar cruise, I believe that LC got the “upgrade” system in 2016. No change since that i know of. For me, i use it A LOT on the highway. Works great…smooth (for me). My previous system was a Lexus GX that had the older system and that was pure crap…very jerky (sudden brakes and sudden acceleration). So, my 2019 LC radar cruise is a huge improvement compared to the GX.

However, the Lexus LX radar is better (not sure when it changed to the newer system)…same as newer LC BUT it can do stop & go traffic i believe. I read on this forum that it works fairly well at low speed.

 

[Tex68w]

However, the Lexus LX radar is better (not sure when it changed to the newer system)…same as newer LC BUT it can do stop & go traffic i believe. I read on this forum that it works fairly well at low speed.

That must have been a change after 2019 because our 2019 didn't do that, it had the same mediocre system as our LC.

 

[04UZJ100]

For LC:

2020+: new front differential design…maybe better/stronger differential carrier??

2018+: KDSS bolt change, automatically power-folding outside mirrors, late-2018s have new radiator design, powered lift gate, non-mandatory rear entertainment, newer transmission software (flashable on 2016-2017), and new key (very cool) design.

2016+ LC also gains bigger front brakes, 8-speed auto, semi-aniline leather of the LX, and has better buttons arrangement than prior years.

As far as radar cruise, I believe that LC got the “upgrade” system in 2016. No change since that i know of. For me, i use it A LOT on the highway. Works great…smooth (for me). My previous system was a Lexus GX that had the older system and that was pure crap…very jerky (sudden brakes and sudden acceleration). So, my 2019 LC radar cruise is a huge improvement compared to the GX.

However, the Lexus LX radar is better (not sure when it changed to the newer system)…same as newer LC BUT it can do stop & go traffic i believe. I read on this forum that it works fairly well at low speed.

Interesting note on front differential. Our 20 LX and 20 Cruiser exhibit a large amount of gear-train noise from the front. Significantly more than the 14LX.

You think that’s a cool key design? It’s the bulkiest POS with the worst range ever.

 

[Madtiger]

That must have been a change after 2019 because our 2019 didn't do that, it had the same mediocre system as our LC.

Yeah, i am just going by some members here who love the LX radar…but then again maybe i should stop listening to TeCKis300 BS….

 

[Madtiger]

You think that’s a cool key design? It’s the bulkiest POS with the worst range ever.

But it says “LAND CRUISER”. Color me impress.

 

[mycars]

For LC:

2020+: new front differential design…maybe better/stronger differential carrier??

2018+: KDSS bolt change, automatically power-folding outside mirrors, late-2018s have new radiator design, powered lift gate, non-mandatory rear entertainment, newer transmission software (flashable on 2016-2017), and new key (very cool) design.

2016+ LC also gains bigger front brakes, 8-speed auto, semi-aniline leather of the LX, and has better buttons arrangement than prior years.

As far as radar cruise, I believe that LC got the “upgrade” system in 2016. No change since that i know of. For me, i use it A LOT on the highway. Works great…smooth (for me). My previous system was a Lexus GX that had the older system and that was pure crap…very jerky (sudden brakes and sudden acceleration). So, my 2019 LC radar cruise is a huge improvement compared to the GX.

However, the Lexus LX radar is better (not sure when it changed to the newer system)…same as newer LC BUT it can do stop & go traffic i believe. I read on this forum that it works fairly well at low speed.

@Madtiger Thanks a ton for the helpful info. This is exactly the kind of thing I was looking for. Occasionally, I consider going the LX route after hearing other Mudders praise them so much. But there is something in my dumb brain that just really wants a Land Cruiser. I like that they fly under the radar - most people probably just think it's a big Toyota whereas having the big Lexus logo on the front and back may send a different message. But it seems like the LX guys in here are welcomed just as much as the LC guys, unless I'm missing something... On the other hand, I don't really care for the front grille on the latest LX. Am I an idiot to not consider the LX? Should I consider a pre-facelift LX (maybe that would be in the 2013-15 range like the LC)? I appreciate all of the feedback so far and would love to hear more thoughts on the LC vs. LX debate. I'll also add that to my research list.

 

[TeCKis300]

Yeah, i am just going by some members here who love the LX radar…but then again maybe i should stop listening to TeCKis300 BS….

Don't worry mad kitty. You probably can't see this but you can keep your own little echo chamber.

 

[CharlieS]

@Madtiger Thanks a ton for the helpful info. This is exactly the kind of thing I was looking for. Occasionally, I consider going the LX route after hearing other Mudders praise them so much. But there is something in my dumb brain that just really wants a Land Cruiser. I like that they fly under the radar - most people probably just think it's a big Toyota whereas having the big Lexus logo on the front and back may send a different message. But it seems like the LX guys in here are welcomed just as much as the LC guys, unless I'm missing something... On the other hand, I don't really care for the front grille on the latest LX. Am I an idiot to not consider the LX? Should I consider a pre-facelift LX (maybe that would be in the 2013-15 range like the LC)? I appreciate all of the feedback so far and would love to hear more thoughts on the LC vs. LX debate. I'll also add that to my research list.

They're both great.

One thing to consider with the LX is the front bumper reduces the approach angle and there are fewer LX dedicated aftermarket bumper options. If you plan to go off road (more rough terrain than forest roads/fire roads), this might be a consideration. Similar with suspension - fewer aftermarket options - but the AHC is pretty amazing and has built in lift-ability that a shock/strut based LC doesn't have.

Buy the newest one you can afford with the best history. I'd suggest that you stop overthinking it, and just buy one. You can't really go wrong.

 

[mycars]

They're both great.

One thing to consider with the LX is the front bumper reduces the approach angle and there are fewer LX dedicated aftermarket bumper options. If you plan to go off road (more rough terrain than forest roads/fire roads), this might be a consideration. Similar with suspension - fewer aftermarket options - but the AHC is pretty amazing and has built in lift-ability that a shock/strut based LC doesn't have.

Buy the newest one you can afford with the best history. I'd suggest that you stop overthinking it, and just buy one. You can't really go wrong.

Nice, thanks for the advice. Good point about the availability of aftermarket options.

 

[bloc]

On the other hand, I don't really care for the front grille on the latest LX.

I see most of your points, but would bring up.. with an aftermarket front bumper the front end of a 16+ LX looks amazing.

Others can do a better job of remembering the usernames of a couple builds, but if the intent is to just do armor anyway, I wouldn't discount a late model LX at all, based on that one factor. The others like suspension can be a double edged sword (ahc is great if you leave it, but if you go full suspension you can't retrofit the KDSS bars of a cruiser, which is a huge plus to a cruiser in this context)

 

[TeCKis300]

It's often quoted that the LX angles are not as good. Not untrue, but there's more to the story. Only the approach angle is better on the LC. Every other metric: departure, breakover, wading depth and potentially sidehill, give the nod to the LX, on account of the 3" lift and lower on demand. There's also differences between the model years. Table copied from here

KDSS is a double edged sword in itself. It's the single largest impediment to LCs not being able to drop in the larger and wider tires that the LX can fit. It's also a passive simpler system of cross linked suspension control. The same technology but in a more capable active and adjustable form exists in AHC.

With AHC lift, larger tire capability, it's arguable whether bumpers even are necessary. I'm on a 6" total lift with 35s and mild AHC sensor lift. All while being dialed whether carrying nothing or 2k lbs. Not much comes close to touching the bumpers. To state it more concisely, an LX would be capable of tackling difficult rated trails with nothing more than just dropping in big tires. That goal and build path is much more costly on the LC.

That doesn't stop the LX from getting armor. With the cost and effort saved elsewhere, most aftermarket bumpers can be fitted with some mild customization as many examples of LXs have shown.

Separately, there's a laundry list of details differences (varies through model yrs) that the LX gets over the LC. Copied from here

1) More sound deadening (acoustic glass, engine covers, more extensive interior insulation)
2) Powered rear hatch for open/close, also key fob operated (later LCs got this)
3) Soft open rear lower tailgate, with power latching
4) Surround camera system
5) Ventilated/Heated front row (later LCs got this)
6) Mark Levinson Reference (only other model to get the Reference system is the LS) w/surround (19 speakers vs 14, 10" sub vs 8")
7) Power side view mirrors with auto-fold (later LCs got this)
8) AHC - AVS, lift on demand, adjustable and continuous damping logic, anti-dive/roll/squat, leveling, etc.
9) AHC underbody armor
10) Shorter roof rack (LC has a longer roof rack with 3 supports per side)
11) Steering headlights (AFS)
12) Projector headlights ('16+ LCs got this)
13) Headlight washers
14) Storage in rear seat armrest
15) Power slide rear seats
16) Second row storage on front seatbacks is a panel vs net
17) 14-way adjustable driver seat vs 10-way LC (passenger 12-way vs 8-way)
18) Adjustable tilt front headrests
19) Power stowage for 3rd row seat
20) All windows down by holding remote door open button for 3+ seconds (not sure Toyota's have this?)
21) Substantial Lexus key fob
22) Fade-To-Off interior lighting (I believe LC got this in 2014?)
23) Puddle and side step lights
24) Door sill lighting
25) Interior ambient lighting
26) Additional trunk side light and open tailgate lighting
27) +2hp / +2tq (requires 91 octane, LC is 87 octane)
28) Semi-aniline leather and more luxurious interior appointments
29) Ventilated second row outboard seats
30) Four-zone climate concierge
31) LED Headlamp with AHS Sequential Turn
32) LED Cornering Lamp
33) 12.3-inch high-res split-screen display (LC 9")
34) Head-up display
35) Steering wheel paddle shifter
36) Door puddle projector lamps
37) Rear door retractable sun shades
38) 2020 gets special trims: "LX570 Sport" to "LC Heritage"
39) Dual screen rear entertainment
40) All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (LC DRCC for 25mph and up)
41) Auto air quality air recirculation

 

[sedonut]

Don't worry about an LX or a 200. Just change the badges.

I have a GX I love and had a 100. Keep in mind if you are commuting the fuel economy sucks. Gas is going to go nowhere but up. $100.00 fill ups are fine, but not if you do them a few times a week.

I just changed the badges on my GX460. Everyone thinks it is a Toyota. I get just under 18 mpg. I got 14 mpg on premium on my 100.

 

[Tex68w]

2018+ LC has a lot of those improvements as well.

 

[CharlieS]

It's often quoted that the LX angles are not as good. Not untrue, but there's more to the story. Only the approach angle is better on the LC. Every other metric: departure, breakover, wading depth and potentially sidehill, give the nod to the LX, on account of the 3" lift and lower on demand. There's also differences between the model years. Table copied from here

I'm just basing my comments off an obstacle that my LC cleared and a LX with a sensor lift scraped the front of their bumper. Nothing scientific. And definitely not stock LC to stock LX - my lifted LC with Kings vs a LX with sensor lift. Who knows how that compares to the stock numbers? The bottom of the LX appears to hang lower than a like model LC. Again, not measured, not scientific.

 

[TeCKis300]

I'm just basing my comments off an obstacle that my LC cleared and a LX with a sensor lift scraped the front of their bumper. Nothing scientific. And definitely not stock LC to stock LX - my lifted LC with Kings vs a LX with sensor lift. Who knows how that compares to the stock numbers? The bottom of the LX appears to hang lower than a like model LC. Again, not measured, not scientific.

To be fair, the LC is not without merits. With some of the strongest being a storied nameplate and image. Objectively and to your point, the front bumper is both higher and tucked closer in. Funny thing is that some of the aftermarket bumpers, while greatly increasing height clearance, compromise it with large forward projections. Pair a good clearance bumper with suspension and large tires, it's only going to increase its approach advantage and bring to at least par the rest of the angle. And that's true for the LX too. The LC weighs up to 300lbs less, weight that can very much be used elsewhere for gear and accessories.

 

[Madtiger]

I'm just basing my comments off an obstacle that my LC cleared and a LX with a sensor lift scraped the front of their bumper. Nothing scientific. And definitely not stock LC to stock LX - my lifted LC with Kings vs a LX with sensor lift. Who knows how that compares to the stock numbers? The bottom of the LX appears to hang lower than a like model LC. Again, not measured, not scientific.

Maybe the AHC protection bars that are hanging down??