The Lexus GX and Toyota Land Cruiser stand as two formidable offerings from Toyota, an automaker known for its durable, terrain-conquering vehicles. The 2024 Lexus GX marked a new generation of this SUV with a more sophisticated, luxury-oriented interior and strong off-road capability. The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser marked its return to the market after a brief hiatus with a new hybrid powertrain and a rugged new look.
There are clear similarities between the two, but despite its higher price, the Lexus GX presents a compelling case as the better choice. Here are five reasons why the Lexus GX is a better buy than the Toyota Land Cruiser.
Base Trim Engine
3.4L V-6 ICE
Base Trim Transmission
10-speed automatic
Base Trim Drivetrain
Four-Wheel Drive
Base Trim Horsepower
349 HP @4800 RPM
Base Trim Torque
479 lb.-ft. @ 2000 RPM
Base Trim Fuel Economy (city/highway/combined)
15/21/17 MPG
Infotainment & Features
8 /10
Superior Engine Performance
2025 Lexus GX Overtrail w/ Incognito Paint Rear Parked in NatureLexus
The Lexus GX now has a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine that delivers 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The Toyota Land Cruiser has a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder hybrid engine with two electric motors. It delivers 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. While both are good under hard acceleration, the GX has a slight but noticeable advantage. It also has a higher tow rating of up to 9,096 pounds depending on the trim versus the Land Cruiser’s 6,000-pound maximum. This makes the GX more engaging and more capable.
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Engine Specifications
Model
2026 Lexus GX
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser
Engine
3.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6
2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder hybrid
Transmission
10-speed automatic
8-speed automatic
Drivetrain
4WD
4WD
Power
349 hp
326 hp
Torque
479 lb-ft
465 lb-ft
Better Cargo Room
2024 Lexus GX with overlanding accessoriesLexus
The Lexus GX not only has a higher tow rating, it also has more cargo room, but not in every configuration. The three-row version of the GX offers a maximum of 76.9 cubic feet while the two-row version comes in with an impressive 90.5 cubic feet. The Land Cruiser maxes out at 82.2, putting it smack in the middle. While you do lose some cargo room in the three-row GX, it’s in the name of extra seating. Comparing the two-row versions, the GX offers more room for all your stuff.
Cargo Room
Behind 1st Row
Behind 2nd Row
Behind 3rd Row
Lexus GX (two-row)
90.5 ft³
45.6 ft³
NA
Lexus GX (three-row)
76.9 ft³
40.2 ft³
10.3 ft³
Toyota Land Cruiser
46.2 ft³
82.2 ft³
NA
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A More Refined Interior
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Interior front facing shot of dashboard and cabinToyota
Inside, the Lexus GX has a more sophisticated cabin with premium trims and a more upscale vibe. There’s available Nappa leather and wood available while the Overtrail trims go more towards durability while still being attractive and comfortable. There’s also a standard 14-inch infotainment touchscreen. The Land Cruiser has an attractive interior, but it’s not as elegant and doesn’t offer the more premium amenities of the GX, including massaging seats. It also has only an 8-inch touchscreen as a base offering with an available 12.3-inch touchscreen. The GX combines its capability for off-road adventure with the premium experience of the Lexus brand.
Base Trim Engine
2.4L I-FORCE MAX I4 Hybrid
Base Trim Transmission
8-speed automatic
Base Trim Drivetrain
Four-Wheel Drive
Base Trim Fuel Economy (city/highway/combined)
22/25/23 MPG
Base Trim Battery Type
Nickel metal hydride (NiMH)
Segment
Full-Size SUV
Enhanced Seating Flexibility
2024 Lexus GX cargo holdLexus
If you have a large family and need a third row, then there’s only one choice. The GX is available with either two rows or three rows of seating. Choose a three-row configuration, and you can also opt for either a second-row bench seat or captain’s chairs. This gives the GX the versatility to handle a full crew of people when the need arises. The Toyota Land Cruiser is strictly a five-seater with no third-row option. While the GX’s third row may not offer expansive space, it’s fine for kids or adults in a pinch, and the second row is actually roomier than what’s in the Land Cruiser.
Interior Dimensions
2026 Lexus GX
1st Row
2nd Row
3rd Row
Headroom
39.39 inches
43.15 inches
35.45 inches
Legroom
41.18 inches
36.73 inches
31.89 inches
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser
Headroom
40.1 inches
39.4 inches
NA
Legroom
43.0 inches
36.7 inches
NA
Better Ground Clearance
2024 Lexus GX off roading rear 3/4 angleLexus
One of the big reasons for going with either of these SUVs is their off-road capability. They’re great for families who need to be able to get the kids to school all week, but can take them out for some fun on the weekend. A key part of off-road capability is ground clearance and the GX comes out ahead thanks to its Overtrail trim. The Premium and Luxury trims max out at 8.66 inches, which is slightly less than the 8.7 inches offered by the Land Cruiser. The Overtrail, however, comes in with 9.84 inches of ground clearance, making it the best choice by far for those who plan to adventure over more challenging, uneven terrain off-road.
Conclusion
2025 Lexus GX Overtrail w/ Incognito Paint Front AngleLexus
While these are both solid choices when it comes to off-road-capable SUVs, the GX is a better buy. Although the Land Cruiser is more affordably priced, starting at $57,600 versus $67,735 for the GX, it simply doesn’t offer as much as the more premium Lexus. Because of its combination of cargo and passenger versatility, more upscale interior, added ground clearance, and a more powerful engine, the GX comes out ahead.
