CONTINUING A TOYOTA LEGACY WITH LEXUS LX

Lexus LX Takes Reign As New Model Land Cruisers Cease To Be Sold In U.S.

The Lexus LX has big shoes to fill with the recent announcement that the Toyota Land Cruiser will not be offered in the U.S. after this year, ending its 60-plus year run for the manufacturer. While new Land Cruisers may not be made available in the U.S., its rich cousin, the Lexus LX, will continue the off-road legacy. Both vehicles share the same basic architecture and powertrain and the LX is recognized as a capable flagship SUV in its own right. The Lexus marque is perceived as a premium luxury brand, but with roots planted in performance, it is every bit as capable as its respected family member.

“Yet once the pedal is pressed, you’re immediately greeted by the lovely whine of the Magnuson Supercharger. The Specially tuned supercharged 5.7L V-8 puts out an impressive 550 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque.”

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Toyota’s Off-Road History

Toyota is no stranger to the off-road world. The company’s rich history began in 1950 after World War II with the Toyota BJ, the original Land Cruiser, which was built for military use. A few years later and after the growing demand for domestic Toyota vehicles, the now iconic Land Cruiser was born. Since 1955, the Land Cruiser has had the longest running history in the Toyota lineup. It’s venerable nameplate earned a positive reputation for dependability, off-road capability, and overall toughness.

Toyota’s emergence in the U.S. market came in 1957, with the first 20-series Land Cruiser sold in 1958. Later in 1960, the 40-series Land Cruiser is introduced and becomes the best selling Toyota from 1961-1965. The Toyota mini 2WD truck came stateside in 1968, which many modified to be 4WD, but the first factory 4×4 pickup appeared in 1979, which helped increase Toyota’s 4WD momentum in the U.S. Since then, Toyota proved its performance capabilities in motorsports with several off-road championships from the Baja 500 to the Mint 400.

Later on, the 4Runner emerges to add another 4WD option in 1984. Then the  FJ Cruiser was introduced as a nod to the classic Land Cruiser in 2007 and became a notable vehicle in off roading. Unfortunately for fans of the FJ Cruiser, the vehicle was taken off the market in 2014. However, Toyota has continued with their off-road lineage with the widely popular Tacoma, Tundra, and 4Runner.

“’It’s a nod to the enthusiast. A lot of people are coming into Lexus that really use these. People are adopting this platform more and more,’ said Clay Croft.”

Lexus entered the U.S. market in 1989 with two sedan options, but didn’t produce an SUV option until 1995 when the LX 450 was announced. The second generation LX 450 more closely resembled the equivalent Land Cruiser in 1998 and the mid-sized GX 470 followed later in 2002.

Introducing the J201

As Lexus continues to push forward with performance, technology, and exploration, the company introduced the Lexus J201 Concept. Based on the Lexus LX 570, the J201, has re-imagined what is possible for the flagship SUV. The J201 Concept further showcases the limits for enhancements, functionality, and progression for the brand.

With the rise of enthusiasts gravitating towards the outdoors and finding themselves in search of new adventures, the idea for the J201 was born. It was from this passion for exploration that Lexus took to craft and created a modified version of the LX 570. The moniker, “J201,” came from the LX 570’s internal model and platform code, URJ201, which distinguishes it amongst other full-size sport-utility models in the lineup.

Lexus J201 Build Details

For this special project, Lexus called on the expertise of Expedition Overland for their knowledge and experience in overlanding to build the vehicle into a one-of-a-kind luxury adventuremobile. Clay and Rachelle Croft of Expedition Overland took to the challenge and outfitted the vehicle as an OEM+ overlander, keeping modifications in line with the original design language without going over the top. For the direction of the build, Clay Croft asked, “How could we build a cool car that elevates your thinking, but is also practical?”

In doing so, they relied on aftermarket partners to help bring the build together. This consisted of brands such as CBI Offroad that provided the front bumper equipped with a WARN Industries winch and Rigid Industries light bar. These items keep the muscular body lines intact, and sleekly complement the front end, while providing the necessary utility when needed.

To further enhance the aesthetics and performance, a set of 17-inch EVO Corse DakarZero wheels were added with General Grabber X3 tires. Behind the wheels is a StopTech big brake kit to help provide more stopping power, which is needed due to the extra weight and power. To help make room for the larger wheel and tire combo, as well as provide extra clearance for the trails, are adjusted OEM height sensors and an Icon Vehicle Dynamics upgraded suspension that consists of upper and lower control arms and OEM front and rear spacers. Helping to further protect the vehicle are CBI Offroad rock sliders, skid plates, and a rear bumper system complete with “Step Here” foot holds to access the roof system.

A Prinsu Design roof rack system holds a pair of Maxtrax recovery boards, which provides peace of mind while maintaining a low profile. The well-thought-out design includes integrated grab handles to help access the roof, which pairs nicely with the custom rear ladder complete with J201 branding. Additional “J201” markings along with textures and patterns from the interior have been cleverly placed throughout the vehicle adding a refined branding touch that you would expect from a luxury vehicle.

“It’s a nod to the enthusiast. A lot of people are coming into Lexus that really use these. People are adopting this platform more and more,” said Clay Croft.

J201 Debuts At Rebelle Rally

As the ultimate test, Lexus debuted the J201 at the 2020 Rebelle Rally, an intense off-road competition. Rachelle Croft and Taylor Pawley competed in the 10-day women’s event that spanned over 2,000 kilometers through grueling climates and challenging terrain. Armed with only maps, compasses, and roadbooks to help navigate them through the California and Nevada landscapes, the team successfully finished the race Second Overall—proving the durability and capability of the J201.

“The Lexus marque is perceived as a premium luxury brand, but with roots planted in performance, it is every bit as capable as its respected family member.”

Getting Behind The Wheel

While most concept vehicles are a study in design and technology, Lexus upped the ante by adding the additional element of drivability. The brand trusted a handful of journalists to get behind the wheel to test the Lexus LX SUV in a variety of locations. We had the opportunity to sit in the driver’s seat at the Paws Up resort near Missoula, Montana, nestled in the heart of the Blackfoot Valley.

Sitting behind the steering wheel is what you may expect with plush and comfortable leather seats, a large infotainment screen, and detailed stitching that adorns the dash, door cards, and center console. Yet once the pedal is pressed, you’re immediately greeted by the lovely whine of the Magnuson Supercharger. The specially tuned supercharged 5.7-liter V-8 puts out and impressive 550 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque.

On the hard-packed trail, the Lexus felt surprisingly nimble for a large SUV that has hundreds of pounds of additional weight added. Through the rough terrain, the vehicle held its own with the suspension adapting to the environment and the tires securely gripping the soil. While there was no rock crawling on this adventure, the vehicle is equipped with multiple off-road modes and felt confidently capable if we were to come across those types of obstacles. We did have the opportunity to splash through some water, although not deep enough to take advantage of the TJM snorkel, which can come in handy for true river crossings.

The vehicle took advantage of the large cabin and can fit a family of four comfortably. Additionally, the third row was removed in lieu of a Goose Gear drawer module. It provides extra storage for recovery gear and other tools, camping equipment, or products for cooking, along with two integrated dog bowls so your furry friends are able to accompany you on the journey.

Continue The Legacy

Lexus and Expedition Overland have created an impressive machine that retains the styling and aesthetics of the automaker, while improving the off-road manners, capability, and overall driving experience. The J201 is a culmination of the history of the brand and showcases what is possible for the future. Lexus will debut the new 2022 Lexus LX model with a fresh redesign later this year. We hope it resembles the newly released overseas Toyota Land Cruiser, not available in the U.S., and continue the legacy for one of the most iconic off-road vehicles.