The Toyota Land Cruiser has always seemed to live in rare air. It’s the rig that explorers, diplomats, and suburban families all somehow agree on. But when Toyota pulled the Land Cruiser from the U.S. lineup after 2021, and then brought back a new, hybridized version for 2024, the mystique only deepened. Used Land Cruisers still fetch eye-watering money, and the new ones always feel in short supply.

Here’s the thing, though: Lexus has been quietly selling its own version of the Land Cruiser for almost 30 years. It’s called the LX. And in many cases, a used LX (especially ones, say, eight years old and newer) gives you the same bones, the same off-road pedigree, and more luxury. Often for the same money or less.

So if you’re lusting after a Land Cruiser but struggling with availability or pricing, a Lexus LX might be the smarter buy. Let’s break down the possibilities.

Land Cruiser’s modern twin: Lexus LX 600 (2022–present)

When Lexus introduced the LX 600 in 2022, it shifted the truck onto Toyota’s GA-F platform. It’s the same frame that underpins the latest Land Cruiser. That means the LX 600 shares structural DNA, suspension design, and off-road systems with its Toyota sibling.

Under the hood, Lexus dropped the long-serving V8 and installed a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 (V35A-FTS). It makes 409 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic.

By comparison, the new-gen Land Cruiser sold in the U.S. relies on a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid setup, good for about 326 hp and 465 lb-ft. Both have plenty of torque, but the Lexus delivers more outright power and a smoother, quieter experience.

Inside, the LX 600 doubles down on luxury. Buyers get high-grade leather, Mark Levinson audio, and big infotainment screens.

Even base trims feel lavish compared with Toyota’s more utilitarian cabin. That difference matters depending on what you really want. In daily driving, the LX doesn’t just match the Land Cruiser mechanically…it outclasses it in comfort.

Price reality: Early used LX 600s often list in the mid-$80,000s to low-$90,000s. Yeah, that sounds like a lot. Well, at least until you realize that used 2021 Land Cruisers (the last U.S. model before Toyota paused imports) still trade at mid-to-high $70k. Sometimes higher, given their rarity. Heck, there’s one in Hiawatha, Iowa, listed right now for $79,569.

Factor in equipment levels, and the LX can end up a better value proposition.

The proven V8 option: Lexus LX 570 (2008–2021)

Not everyone wants turbos or hybrids. For buyers who love naturally aspirated simplicity, the LX 570 (built on the Land Cruiser 200 platform) is worth a long look.

From 2008 to 2021, Lexus sold the LX 570 with Toyota’s 5.7-liter V8 (383 hp, 403 lb-ft). That engine is one of Toyota’s most trusted workhorses: simple, reliable, and loved for its linear power delivery. It’s thirsty…most owners see 13–16 mpg. But it’s nearly bombproof with proper care.

Mechanically, the LX 570 is a Land Cruiser 200 with nicer trim. You still get body-on-frame construction, full-time four-wheel drive, and available crawl control and KDSS (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System). But Lexus added ventilated seats, more tech, adaptive suspension options, and an overall quieter cabin.

Pricing: As of now, clean 2018 to 2020 LX 570s often sell in the $45,000 to $65,000 range. That’s often less than the same year Land Cruiser 200, which regularly pushes $65,000 to $80,000 thanks to fan demand. For a shopper who wants the proven 200-series experience without paying the “Land Cruiser tax,” the LX 570 is the sweet spot.

If you’re eyeing a 2022+ Land Cruiser because you want a “serious” Toyota SUV, the LX 570 gives you 95% of that feel (plus Lexus polish) at a much friendlier entry price.

The “forgotten” middle child: Lexus LX 470 (1998–2007)

Slotted between the short-lived LX 450 and the later LX 570, the LX 470 was Lexus’s take on the Land Cruiser 100 Series.

It introduced the 2UZ-FE 4.7-liter V8: a smooth, nearly indestructible workhorse paired with an independent front suspension, which softened ride quality without stripping away serious off-road ability.

Inside, it layered on early luxury touches like optional navigation, that Mark Levinson audio, and available adjustable-height suspension.

Today, a well-kept LX 470 offers Land Cruiser toughness with Lexus polish for $15,000 to $25,000, making it one of the best values in the entire lineage. That is, if you don’t mind dated tech and the need for diligent maintenance. You’ll see lots of 2004s in great shape for a reasonable buck if you look at Bring a Trailer.

The heritage legend: Lexus LX 450 (1996–1997)

No discussion of Land Cruiser/LX overlap is complete without the original.

The Lexus LX 450 was the first LX, sold in the U.S. for just two years. It was essentially a rebadged Land Cruiser 80 Series with nicer leather and wood trim.

Underneath, it used the same 4.5-liter inline-six (212 hp) and solid axles front and rear. In other words, it was literally a Land Cruiser with a Lexus badge. Fans love it because it represents the era when the overlap was absolute.

Viability today: LX 450s are now, technically, collectibles. Clean examples command $20,000 to $35,000, depending on condition. With some patience, you can find them for less than $20k. They’re incredibly durable, but they’re also 25+ years old, with the driving manners of a vintage truck.

If you’re shopping a 2022+ Land Cruiser for daily use, the LX 450 probably isn’t really a practical substitute. But if you’re stuck in that lower price range and want reliability and capability, and you’re willing to budget some regular maintenance on, then have at it.

What to check before buying a used LX

Whether you’re shopping LX 600, LX 570, or even an older LX 450, the same used-car diligence applies:

Service history: Lexus engines are tough, but neglect can shorten turbo life (LX 600) or cause issues with timing belts and cooling systems (LX 570, LX 450).

Suspension: Adaptive or air suspensions can get pricey. Verify condition.

Infotainment: Lexus systems are reliable, but replacement parts are expensive. Check that all screens and controllers work.

Ownership pattern: Retiree grocery getter? Family hauler? Overlanding toy? The LX lives very different lives depending on its first owner.

Which LX is right for you?

To sum up the options I’ve covered above:

LX 600 (2022+): Closest modern twin to the new Land Cruiser. Same GA-F platform, more power, and Lexus-level luxury. Best if you want modern tech, big torque, and don’t mind higher upfront cost.

LX 570 (2008–2021): Proven V8 reliability, shared Land Cruiser 200 bones, and significantly cheaper on the used market. Best if you want toughness and simplicity with just enough luxury.

LX 450 (1996–1997): True 80-series Land Cruiser in Lexus clothes. Best if you’re a collector or want vintage cred. Probably not a daily driver substitute for modern buyers with lower tolerance for aged car quirks.

If you want a Toyota Land Cruiser, a used Lexus LX might be the better deal

Land Cruiser fans poring over build pages or lightly used listings have more options than they might have initially thought.

The trick is knowing which LX matches your priorities. If you want new-school torque and tech, buy a 2022+ LX 600. If you want the tried-and-true V8 experience without the Land Cruiser markup, grab a late-model LX 570. And if you’re in it for heritage, the LX 450 will always have a seat at the table.