Lexus LX570 vs LX470 vs GX460 vs 4Runner (2 Viewers)

[chopsticksonly]

Objective: The objective of this thread is to compare a used LX570, LX470, GX460 and 2018+ Toyota 4Runner off-road to see which vehicle is most suitable for myself. Details will be in CAD and kms.


About me:

- 20-30 years old
- Male
- Single
- The vehicle will be used as a daily driver and to go to the mountains (hiking, camping, snowboarding). Eventually will be used to go on road trips. I am hoping to keep this vehicle for at least 8 years
- I put on about 20k kms a year
- I want to lightly “mod” the vehicle, (bumper, steps, roof carrier etc.)
- I have wanted a “land cruiser” since I graduated university several years ago after researching and finding out they are one of the most capable and reliable SUVs. They are able to run forever with proper maintenance
- Budget is 30-35k CAD except for 2018+ 4Runner off-road


The most important factors to be considered, ranked in order:

- Depreciation – the lesser the better
- Reliability – the vehicle should only need scheduled maintenance
- Comfort for daily driving and long commutes
- Ability to go on bumpy gravel/mud roads, big snow piles in the mountains and “minor off-roading”
- Towing capabilities down the road (about 3500-4000 lbs)


The vehicles being considered are:

- 2008-2012 LX570 with about 200k kms in the 30-35k range
- 2006-2007 LX470 with 100k kms asking 35k
- 2010-2013 GX460 between 110-150k kms in the 30-35k range
- 2018+ 4Runner off-road, brand new asking 48.5k CAD


2008-2012 LX570:

Pros:

- It is a Lexus branded land cruiser
- Big vehicle so I can haul camping and snowboarding gear and hopefully still have room for passengers
- Should be comfortable if I go on road trips

Cons:

- 200k kms
- A lot more electronics that could go wrong
- No warranty


2006-2007 LX470:

Pros:

- Same as the LX570 but older
- More “mod friendly”
- 100k kms

Cons:

- At 35k, I can get into a LX570 but it will have higher kms
- Worse gas mileage than LX570
- No warranty


2010-2013 GX460:

Pros:

- Essentially a Lexus branded 4Runner
- V8 engine compared to V6 on 4Runner
- Refined interior compared to 4Runner
- Almost like the LX570


Cons:

- Barn style rear door
- Not a “land cruiser” (I know it is a land cruiser prado)
- No warranty


2018 Toyota 4Runner off-road:

Pros:

- Brand new
- Full warranty
- Capable vehicle in stock form
- Easily modifiable

Cons:

- Not refined interior and lots of road noise
- Part-time 4WD (I’ll be honest and say I don’t know if I’ll notice the difference)
- Bad safety ratings
- Most expensive alternative
- Depreciation on brand new vehicle


Based on the discussion above, you will probably think I really want a LX570, and that is true. However, I am posting this because I want to hear experiences from people who went through a similar process, and who can tell me anything I am missing so I can make an informed decision. In other words, I want you to tell me why I should not pick up a used LX570 over the other vehicles listed.

Thanks.

 

[grinchy]

Yep. Same logic same conclusion. Get a used tic or LX570. I recommend you go drive them to see why.

 

[silverfstop]

I've been dealing with a very similar purchase decision for a while now, and it sounds like our use case is similar. I need to make a purchase in the next 4-6 weeks. My thoughts:

200 Series LC - the hands down winner, however the miles would be too high for my desired price range. $55-60k USD is the sweet spot on depreciation on the used market, which is still more than I'd prefer to spend and I can't get the price into the 40's without a ton of miles.

LX570 - a close second, however I have concerns about the adaptive suspension.

LX470 - never considered due to age + miles.

4Runners - A rock solid performer with a proven powertrain, good angles and dual lockers. A very viable choice. I do think, however, the interior is rather crude and the drivetrain ancient (really poor econ for the horsepower). I can't get excited to buy one new and take the depreciation hit - and the used examples have not depreciated enough to justify the lack of warranty. If DD was not a primary issue (comfort and econ), and I didn't need to tow so frequently, and aftermarket support were more important I might consider it more closely.

Tacoma - I've recently started to give these additional consideration. Reliable as all hell. Insanely flat depreciation. Very capable (dual lockers and impressive factory suspension), lots of aftermarket, quite comfortable, good fuel econ and recently updated. I drove a TRD Off Road Crew Cab Long Bed today. In many ways, the cabin was superior to the TRD Off Road 4Runner I drove right after. My only real pet peeve is the drum brakes (lol!) in back. The only deal breaker on my end: Do I really want a pickup truck? Again, if this were an extra car the Taco would zoom to the top of the list - assuming we had a another car in the fam for more civilian duties.

GX470 - really a quite outstanding choice if you're looking for a second vehicle. Lots of parts, very capable out of the box and with good angles. A little down on power, and getting old though.

GX460 Gen1 (until 2013) - slightly dopy looks (IMHO), but good angles and (the start) of good aftermarket support. V8, Torsen center diff - it's a Prado 150 and that's tough to beat. Lexus interior including air con seats and KDSS as standard. The only downer from a off road perspective is the lack of a rear locker - however 1) ARB will gladly sell you one and 2) with modern electronics, you have to ask yourself if you really need it for your use case. Also, the barn door is a love it / hate it thing. Those that don't own one hate it, and those that have one like it or don't care. I wouldn't let this influnce your decision making process.

GX460 Gen2 (2014+) - controversial looks and a REALLY dumb front bumper design. Aside from that, mechanically it's the same as Gen1 - but newer and few miles. I cannot overstate how stupid the front bumper is, though. The angles are horrible and the bumper is connected to the grill, making it a challenging for the aftermarket to work around.

Personally - as of today - I'm between a new Tacoma TRD Off Road Crew Cab Short Bed and a used GX460. Good luck with your process, it's a pain.

 

[GordJ]

Where are you? I’m going to put my ‘08 LC on the market pretty soon. Just thought you might to add something unique to your list.

 

[chopsticksonly]

Thanks for your replies.

@grinchy I have driven all the vehicles except for the GX460. I will do that tomorrow.

@silverfstop It's amazing to see someone in the same boat as me. I considered and test drove a brand new Tacoma TRD off road, but did not put much thoughts into it when I realized I had 0 need for a truck. Based on your post and other threads about the GX460, I will start looking into it again as it seems just as capable as the LX570/LC, but cheaper. However, the reason why it was not on my radar is that I have driven my brother's GX470. It was nice vehicle but I always wondered what it would be like driving the LX470. I am afraid that I will feel this way again.

What does everyone consider as "high" mileage? Is 200k+ kms on a LX570 a lot? At what point do you decide to look at other vehicles?

 

[SQRRRL]

If it wasn’t for my 3 boy I’d have a 4R TRD PRO in burnt orange. Buy a new 4R and keep if for 20 years.

 

[FinallyGotOne!]

For your requirements as outlined here, the LX470 closely followed by the GX460. While the GX might be a bit nicer as a daily driver, the LX will give you the room you might need for friends and equipment. You don't need an LX 570. I've had both the 470 and 570 and, while the 570 is a better vehicle in many ways, a low mileage well-maintained 470 is going to get you everything you need for the same or less money than a high mileage 570.

Having put over 200K on my 470 in the 14 years I had it, I might even stick my neck out and suggest that the 470 is at least equally reliable as the 570 and might...just maybe...be the more reliable choice. The MY99-00 vehicles had a tranny weakness that was fixed in later years and early years had exhaust manifold cracking, and some people had trouble with starters, but I can't remember many other widespread problems in later years. We 570 owners are dealing with (or wondering about) cracking radiators and cam tower leaks at a minimum.

As previously mentioned, the 570 is challenging to mod in some ways. The 470 will more easily accept bumper and slider upgrades as well as larger tires.

A 470 won't tow as well as a 570. But I towed a 6000# boat for years with mine with no problems.

Good luck!

 

[grinchy]

320km on my 570. Not sure what exchange rate is today, it was half your budget is us $. Aside from some seat wear it’s basically the same as a newer one. I drove a bunch. Service records are useful.

Sliders are a problem, hopefully this will be resolved before the year is out

 

[DRCocaCola]

I had a T4R Trail for a few years when I couldn’t find a suitable Land Cruiser. It was great for my family and me. I had done everyth8ng you’re planning as far as mods and never thought I’d sell it. But I started a new job and had to take clients and board members in it occasionally. It is a nice vehicle for a 20-30 year old with friends and adventures but for a 50 year old in a new executive position, it just wasn’t quite “nice” enough. Between the lift and the sliders, the smaller back seat, it was somewhat rough and unrefined. I decided to upgrade to a used 200 and it’s awesome, for me.

Besides the comfort level, which is relative depending on your needs. I was surprised at the poor mileage of the T4R once it was modified. YMMV of course, but for the way I drive I don’t see much difference in the 200 as far as mileage but a huge difference in power. All that said, if I were you, I’d seriously consider a new T4R unless a deal fell in your lap that you couldn’t pass up.

 

[Fooness]

How long are you planning to keep the vehicle? Depreciation wouldn't really matter if you plan to keep it for a decent bit. 4Runners hold their value very well compared to the LXs. I'd consider getting a 4Runner more than LXs or GXs, if you care about resale value.

 

[mcgaskins]

Objective: The objective of this thread is to compare a used LX570, LX470, GX460 and 2018+ Toyota 4Runner off-road to see which vehicle is most suitable for myself. Details will be in CAD and kms.


About me:

- 20-30 years old
- Male
- Single
- The vehicle will be used as a daily driver and to go to the mountains (hiking, camping, snowboarding). Eventually will be used to go on road trips. I am hoping to keep this vehicle for at least 8 years
- I put on about 20k kms a year
- I want to lightly “mod” the vehicle, (bumper, steps, roof carrier etc.)
- I have wanted a “land cruiser” since I graduated university several years ago after researching and finding out they are one of the most capable and reliable SUVs. They are able to run forever with proper maintenance
- Budget is 30-35k CAD except for 2018+ 4Runner off-road


The most important factors to be considered, ranked in order:

- Depreciation – the lesser the better
- Reliability – the vehicle should only need scheduled maintenance
- Comfort for daily driving and long commutes
- Ability to go on bumpy gravel/mud roads, big snow piles in the mountains and “minor off-roading”
- Towing capabilities down the road (about 3500-4000 lbs)


The vehicles being considered are:

- 2008-2012 LX570 with about 200k kms in the 30-35k range
- 2006-2007 LX470 with 100k kms asking 35k
- 2010-2013 GX460 between 110-150k kms in the 30-35k range
- 2018+ 4Runner off-road, brand new asking 48.5k CAD


2008-2012 LX570:

Pros:

- It is a Lexus branded land cruiser
- Big vehicle so I can haul camping and snowboarding gear and hopefully still have room for passengers
- Should be comfortable if I go on road trips

Cons:

- 200k kms
- A lot more electronics that could go wrong
- No warranty


2006-2007 LX470:

Pros:

- Same as the LX570 but older
- More “mod friendly”
- 100k kms

Cons:

- At 35k, I can get into a LX570 but it will have higher kms
- Worse gas mileage than LX570
- No warranty


2010-2013 GX460:

Pros:

- Essentially a Lexus branded 4Runner
- V8 engine compared to V6 on 4Runner
- Refined interior compared to 4Runner
- Almost like the LX570


Cons:

- Barn style rear door
- Not a “land cruiser” (I know it is a land cruiser prado)
- No warranty


2018 Toyota 4Runner off-road:

Pros:

- Brand new
- Full warranty
- Capable vehicle in stock form
- Easily modifiable

Cons:

- Not refined interior and lots of road noise
- Part-time 4WD (I’ll be honest and say I don’t know if I’ll notice the difference)
- Bad safety ratings
- Most expensive alternative
- Depreciation on brand new vehicle


Based on the discussion above, you will probably think I really want a LX570, and that is true. However, I am posting this because I want to hear experiences from people who went through a similar process, and who can tell me anything I am missing so I can make an informed decision. In other words, I want you to tell me why I should not pick up a used LX570 over the other vehicles listed.

Thanks.

I disagree that the LX470 and GX460 are extremely similar to the LX570. Have you driven any of these on your list? Go drive them all and it will be obvious to you which to pick, and that doesn't necessarily mean a 200. I think it's a bit odd you're including a vehicle in the list that's ~50% more expensive than everything else. You should include a used 5th or even 4th gen 4runner in your comparison instead of a brand new one IMO.

 

[TimCFJ40]

I think you're looking at Depreciation all wrong. The best deals on used cars are ones that depreciated quickly. You can find 10 year old Cruisers and 10 year old Tacoma for almost the same price. One is a 10 year old 80k vehicle, and one is a 10 year old 25k vehicle.

For what it's worth, I've had 2 2nd gen tacomas, a 100 series, and a 200 series, and they're all awesome in their own ways. The 100 and 200 series blow away the Tacoma in the way of comfort for long drives. All of them got terrible mileage, 13-15 mpg.

I have no idea of your financial situation, nor do I want to, but my advice to younger me would be to buy what you can pay cash for. A 10-15k reliable used 100 series is way more fun than a note on a $35k truck and working OT to pay for it instead of enjoying it.

 

[TeCKis300]

This is a case of Goldilocks and what fits right for you, the OP. They all easily meet your requirements. Having owned and driven all of them, except for the GX460 (though I've had extensive time in a GX470 which is still owned by my parents...

I would first further narrow down your list.

- Strike the 2018 4Runner because it will be the least amount of vehicle (value) you'll get for your dollar, by far. Other than it being new.
- My opinion, but the LX570 (and sister LC), is probably too much vehicle, too much weight, and too much cost (including maintenance, liability, insurance, etc) for a daily driver. Especially for a single person without a family in tow. Besides, if you start at the top, you'll be spoiled for life. Where would you go from here? You'll never get to taste the simplier joys in life...though all the others are righteous in their own way.

This leaves the LX470 and GX460. Though since you're considering a LX470, I'd say to expand your search and add the GX470 to your list.

I've owned a '06 LX470 for 6 years. Love the car and still love it. It's still in my family as I've sold it to my brother. It's the oldest architecture and design among the cars you listed, though still incredibly awesome and relevant. Which is why I say to include the GX470 (120-series) as it's in the same period, but is actually of a newer design than the 100-series LX470. The '06/'07 were actually reasonably powerful cars with their VVTi motor upgrades and 5-speed, unlike the earlier years of the 100-series. They've proven to stand the test of time, have larger capacities than the Prado's, and are more agile in feel than the 200-series.

Onto the GX460/GX470. These are practically rocket ships compared to the LX470. Though they make less power than the LX570 5.7L, they are far lighter. With great daily driver practicality, maneuverability, and huge value. For an all around do everything DD, trip vehicle, overlander, these are the ones to beat IMO. It's Golidlocks just the right size. It's a sister to the 4Runner, but waaay more powerful and way more refined. I don't know if you care about these things, but the GX470's Mark Levinson stereo takes the cake over the LX470, with ride just as plush being newer in architecture. With a significantly larger coach than the 4Runner on the 120-series platform due to the added height, and still seating for 8 like the LX's, only giving up some width. Some people dislike the side swing door, but it's also a great opportunity. Like the FJ's, they can have a rear mounted swing out that's nicely integrated with the side swing door, without additional latches! And it won't interfere with certain roof mounted accessories.

I don't personally love the GX460 styling. Both the GX470 and GX460 though look great with aftermarket front bumpers, since you're already considering that path! Metal-tech 4X4 has some choice mods for these.

Whatever you choose, let me just say you have great tastes for a young gentleman and can't go wrong with any of these!

 

[coleAK]

I have a ‘13 LX570, I’m quite a bit older than you with a wife and 2 kids. I use it as a DD, camping, hunting, fishing, off road it regularly. I Actually wanted a GX but have a have a just under 7000 lb camper I pull all summer and didn’t feel comfortable with the prado platform and my camper.

I really like my LX and can’t see getting rid of it for at least a decade but I think I would have been just as happy with a GX if I didn’t want to tow with it. When my LX was under warrenty I did my service at the dealer and was given a GX most of the time and if really is a nice vehicle.

It is all personal preference but if you live in a winter climate the AWD of LC, LX, GX is a big plus

 

[krice118]

Buy the newest LC/ LX you can afford........... (read Afford not how much car can I finance)

 

[Chocolate]

LX570 Safety? Proof is in the pictures - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum Discussion

Easy decision.

Also, the idiotic foot parking brake which brushes right against your leg while not set, and worse ride of the GX and 4runner, help make the decision.

 

[JZelnick]

@chopsticksonly I was in your shoes about a year ago. Previously I had an 04 LX470 for just over a year. Lack of power (came from a BMW M5) was my biggest complaint. It also got old having to tell other enthusiasts that this was a Lexus branded Land Cruiser. Following a big promotion, I considered a 4Runner TRD Offroad and a 200 TLC. One test drive of the TLC sold me and I am much happier than I was in my 100.

 

[M1911]

When I was replacing my V8 4th Gen 4Runner, I test drove the 5th gen 4Runner, GX460, and a used 200 LC.

I liked the interior room in the 4th Gen 4Runner. I didn't like the fact that only the Limited trim has the Torsen center diff. I would have gotten the Limited trim, but would have had to ditch the 20" wheels. I prefer smaller wheels and large sidewalls in an offroad truck. I liked the dash in the Limited trim.

The problem with the 5th gen 4Runner for me was the drivetrain. Yes, it is just about as fast 0-60 as my old V8 4Runner, but that V6 is just so unpleasant. It doesn't have much low-end torque, so you have to wind it out to get power, and at high revs that V6 is noisy (and it's not a nice noise). The 4Runner also desperately needs a couple more gears in the transmission.

I test drove a new 2016 GX460 several times. I don't like the side-hinged rear door (I like a hatch over my head when fishing in the rain). The "fold-flat" third row takes up a huge amount of space. When folded, the rear floor is a good 5" above the bottom of the rear door. I don't need a third row, but there is no easy provision for removing those seats (and if you did, the side panels wouldn't reach the floor). The 4th gen 4Runner had 70 cu ft with the 2nd row folded. The 5th gen has 80 cu ft with the 2nd row folded. The GX460 has only 60 cu ft with the 2nd and 3rd row folded. I need more room than that.

Visibility out of the GX460 is poor IMO. The window in the rear door is small. The D-pillars are large. The belt line is high and the roof is relatively low. I found the truck hard to see out of pretty much all the way around.

I found that the GX460 felt slow. The 4.6l V8 is certainly smooth, but didn't seem to have much power down low.

The base model GX460 was rather stripped in 2016 (maybe that has changed?). In order to get the options that I wanted, I would have had to get the higher trim model. That would have run close to $65k.

Finally, I found the seats in the GX460 to be uncomfortable. It felt like there was a ridge running around the outside of the seat bottom that dug into my thighs.

I then found a used CPO 2013 Landcruiser at the same Lexus dealer for less than $60k. It had the interior space I need. The seats were more comfortable. I find it much easier to see out of than the GX460. It is quiet and refined, with lots of low-end torque. I can accelerate quickly with low revs and no drama, and not disturb the Mrs while doing so. Fuel economy in the city is horrific. On the highway, however, it gets as good or better fuel economy than my old V8 4Runner.

The 4Runner is a more appropriate size for me, as we don't have kids, but I just can't deal with that drivetrain. YMMV.

 

[alta]

I have owned two Gen5 4Runners: '15 SR5 and '17 TRD Off Road Prem. Now I own a '10 LC and wouldn't go back. I wanted more size, power, comfort, but ultimately I just wanted a Land Cruiser. Many might think me crazy, because I traded in an almost new 4runner for a used LC with 80k miles. But I do feel like the LC is a better overall vehicle for me. The 4runner is smaller, more nimble and a great overall vehicle (especially for the price). I just like the LC better. It is subjective and best experienced through a test drive.

The only thing that sucks about my LC is the range. I am okay with 12 mpg, considering I run larger tires and it is lifted, but my range is only ~270mi. This is just a fact of life with the LC 200 and the only remedy is an aux fuel tank ~$1k+. A GX460 owner I spoke to recently said he was also seeing about 12 MPG, so the GX range might be as bad as the LC. These mpg numbers are at elevation (5k-10k feet, so sea level folks might see better numbers). My 4Runners were always range=350+mi.

It took me 2 years to find my current LC. If I couldn't find one or couldn't afford the right one, I would probably go with the '18 4Runner or older GX460, depending on the level of luxury I wanted. If aftermarket support is a concern, stick with the 4runner.

 

[alta]

One thing I would invest in with any of the vehicles you are considering, is high-end aftermarket suspension (fox, king, icon). I had icon stage 3 on my second 4runner and went from hating the vehicle, especially on the highway loaded with gear (which is why I sold my '15), to actually enjoying it. I have Fox custom adjustable shocks with icon rear springs on my LC and like the linear valving far more than the digressive Icon valving. Suspension changes the behavior of all the vehicles you are considering in a major (better) way in all types of driving (highway, off road, in town). I would never consider a stock 4runner as a daily driver again (without suspension and maybe a Magnuson super charger ).