When Lexus started producing luxury cars for Toyota in 1989, they probably didn't know they would have a long and prosperous road ahead of them. From the start they have been one of the most popular affordable luxury cars on the market and each year they seem to get better and better, depending on the times and the technology that accompanies the progress. . Today, Lexus is still as popular and loved as ever, after nearly thirty-five years of production.
During those years, most of the vehicles the company made were primarily sedans, coupes, and crossovers, but over the past decade we've seen Lexus really show its versatility and willingness to get its feet wet. Along with many other surprising car makers, they've taken the off-road bandwagon by designing and producing vehicles worthy of a dirty good time on grime, rocks and uneven surfaces. They've managed to come out with some really great noteworthy 4 × 4 vehicles, and there are some proud owners who wouldn't drive anything else.
But many much prefer to depend on a solid brand when it comes to playing time in their beloved vehicle. For those who have never driven a Lexus with off-road capability, you're probably wondering how good one of these luxury SUVs really is, let alone the safety. How do they deal with the dangerous terrain? What about ice and snow in the cold season? A Lexus can be pretty darn pretty and comfortable for the most part, with all kinds of extras, but what about when the need to get serious… Can a Lexus really stand firm with the “big boys”?
Well, in this particular room, we're determined to take a look and find out. We've sat down and done our research, and we're going to showcase three different Lexus models specifically designed for off-road driving. We will not be posting specifications, as well as any other relevant information that will give you a better understanding of just how tough and durable a Lexus can be. So if you've felt apprehension about Toyota's lineup of luxury cars and their ability to run with the bigger, tougher dogs, it can help dispel that feeling entirely. Read on for the five best Lexus models for off-road driving.
The Lexus IS 300 and 350
It must first be said that the Lexus IS 300 and 350 are actually sedans equipped with all-wheel drive, as standard. For those who don't know, all-wheel drive differs from 4WD in that it actually senses when to start and when to relax. Sedans, coupes and more are equipped with all-wheel drive to suit the type of vehicle. The Lexus IS 300 and 350 are very good cars with off-road capability when needed, which seems to appeal to the masses very well. More versatile in appearance, they won't let you down when you need them most, which the doctor has prescribed for a lot. It comes with an inline 4 turbocharged engine that produces just 241 horsepower and has no problem handling the issues under its tires. It's a sexy car that can accommodate a small family and offers plenty of extras while getting the job done.
The Lexus RC 300 and RC 350
Those of you who are interested in a smaller, sportier car that can handle the dangers, don't despair. The Lexus RC 300 and RC 350 are coupes made to please. Now, all-wheel drive is optional with this car, so be sure to only consider it if you don't mind going the extra mile for it; a V6 is also optional, otherwise you get a turbocharged four cylinder. This is, indeed, a hot little number, so if it's sporty what you want, this is what you're going to get with RC models. It's also worth noting that the 350 is a bit larger than the 300, so choose accordingly.
The Lexus GX
A full-size luxury SUV, the Lexus GX is no newcomer to off-road driving needs. Produced from 2002 to the present, the vehicle was built in the style of sister Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. The first generation, the Lexus GX 470, was only the third type of SUV manufactured by Lexus since its start-up, and it was based on a very popular vehicle, which gave it a head start, both in terms of quality and performance. It came with a standard 5-speed automatic and low range gear running with constant use of its 4-wheel drive. It also came with a 8-liter V4,7 (they upgraded to a 8-liter V4,6 when they busted out the GX 460, which was next in 2009), and in 2012 they came out with the GX 400, which actually had a 6-liter V4,0. According to sources, there are varying opinions on how this truck drives and drives. Surprisingly, many say the Lexus GX performs great, great off-road, but feels a bit too stiff on the curb. Drivers also report that if the corners are taken too sharply, the truck tends to tilt a bit, but it holds up quite well in the tough or weather-beaten situations you want it to. All in all, it's considered one of the best all-terrain vehicles Lexus ever made, even in 2020. If you're considering a Lexus with this capability, you've just read a great pick… the GX470 is considered the best. one of the very best of its kind.
The Lexus RX Mk4
This was the first legitimate crossover introduced by Lexus, and one of the most preferred. The 1987 Toyota Harrier counterpart actually performed much better. It came with a naturally aspirated V6 that put out 220 horsepower, and buyers had the choice of standard front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, which is our focus here. Now, in the fourth generation, it still has the same engine, but gets 295 hp… nothing to sneeze at; for those who are environmentally conscious, there is also a hybrid version. Drivers say the RX is a great all-terrain vehicle, as long as you stick with the gas-only version. The hybrid, while capable of all-wheel drive, just doesn't seem to deliver the power one would want for driving in rock and dirt, or even in winter. But when it comes to Lexus off-roaders, it's one of the best, top-of-the-line, and seems like a great seller among the crowd who'd rather play safe than sorry. A definition worth considering, the RX is one of Lexus' best.
The Lexus LX 570
Finally, we picked the Lexus LX for our list of the best Lexus off-roaders. Another glamorous Land Cruiser, this one is rated as another extraordinary off-road vehicle, but it has been said to "feel" a bit old and awkward. Yes, it's a bit big and bulky, but it allows for better off-road handling, as well as interior comfort and space. Under the hood, we're talking about a 8-liter V5,7 run by an 8-speed automatic tranny, which offers a lot of flexibility to climb and overcome ... exactly what the doctor ordered. But yes, it's huge, it takes 7,3 seconds to hit 60, but offroad, especially for an everyday vehicle, is not a race. With these points in mind, we say with great confidence that the Lexus LX 570 is one of the best choices that a luxury-loving off-road enthusiast can make.
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If you like luxury cars, but also like to go a little crazy, or just enjoy handling what nature throws at you, Lexus makes great vehicles. Check out the models listed above, or better yet, do your research and take a hard look at all they have to offer… you'll be glad you did. So, have fun buying your new all-terrain vehicle, but above all, be careful. Your days off-road will be long if you do.
