There's alot more Tacoma's and LC100's running around in the middle east supporting our guys than there are G wagons. I've been told that the Taco is very popular with US black ops in Afghanistan. I couldn't find any comparisons of the G55 but did find a shootout that included the g500.
Also here is an excerpt from the 2003 shootout between the H2, G500, LX470, Navigator and Escalade.
_____________________________________________________________
We took the LX 470 on some challenging off-road trails during our trip to Hungry Valley, and even over severe bumps and ruts, it retained its compliant, forgiving ride quality. Such manners were remarkable next to the G500, which despite its supreme capability never failed to give occupants a good bouncing around, its chassis flexing over every undulation. Several editors said they would choose the LX 470 over the G500 (and H2) as an off-road companion because of its easygoing nature. While the Lexus doesn't have a rear locking differential, it does allow you to access its low-range gearing without locking the center differential. Further, it comes with Adjustable Height Control (AHC), which slightly improves the approach and departure angles when activated. Finally, it offered a very low first gear in 4WD Low — something we found very useful on steep descents — and its Dunlop tires worked well on the pavement and in the dirt.
Very few SUVs are as multitalented as the LX 470. If you buy one, you won't be disappointed, especially if you're among the small percentage of buyers who really do enjoy going off-roading. The one thing the LX doesn't tend to inspire in its driver is excitement — and that, along with its hefty price, led to its second-place finish. Nevertheless, we respect its capabilities more than ever.
Second Opinions:
Road Test Editor John DiPietro says:
One might think, after experiencing its refined manners on pavement, that the Lexus isn't tough enough to handle off-road terrain. Au contraire. Much like a natural athlete who quietly goes about trouncing louder, more obnoxious rivals, the LX 470 climbed, descended and scrabbled through challenging sections of the off-road portion of this test with ease. Never was there heard an unseemly clunk or felt an uneasy shakiness as the Lexus handled the terrain confidently.
Although it's into the sixth model year of this generation, the LX 470 still has it over its more recently revamped rivals. Even though its V8 is rated at the lowest output in this group, mated to a silken and responsive automatic, it furnishes brisk performance and remains virtually silent and free of vibration no matter what. A ride more like a luxury sedan than a truck and reassuring handling complete the dynamic package. The nicest cabin in the class is the frosting on this delectable piece of cake.
Beautifully crafted inside and out, comfortable and capable on- or off-road and with a size that's manageable in terms of parking and getting through traffic, the LX 470 would be my top pick here.
Senior Road Test Editor Ed Hellwig says:
Until this test, I had spent little time behind the wheel of Lexus' flagship SUV. All the previous reports were good, so I went in expecting a lot. After putting the vehicle through its paces, I wasn't the least bit disappointed. The suspension is phenomenal on- or off-road, with enough comfort on the street and articulation in the dirt to give it excellent performance in either situation. Of all the vehicles in the test, this is the one I would want to use to tackle an imposing off-road trail. There's no doubt that the engine could use some more horsepower, especially when it's loaded down with people and cargo, but in everyday driving its refinement almost makes up for its lack of grunt. Even more impressive was the LX's interior. The wood is gorgeous, the seats are comfortable and the fit and finish is nearly perfect. Add in the best audio and navigation systems of the five and it's easy to see why it continually lands at the top of our lists. It may not garner much attention on the street or have the power to outrun its competitors, but if I were looking for a luxury SUV that would rarely disappoint no matter what I wanted to do, the Lexus is the one I would pick hands down.
)
)
