Toyota has released an all-new 2024 Land Cruiser. This latest model of this long-lasting SUV is smaller and more affordable than before, and features a hybrid powertrain that offers better fuel economy than the previous V8. But true to tradition, the Land Cruiser comes standard with all-wheel drive and plenty of ground clearance for rough terrain. For anyone looking for a multi-purpose SUV, this should be a no-brainer. There’s just one thing: you might want to buy a 2024 Lexus GX instead.
It’s rare to see such a compelling rivalry within a family as between these two models. The 2024 Lexus GX is similarly new and based on the same platform as the Land Cruiser. While it costs more than the Land Cruiser, it’s just as capable off-road, has a more powerful engine and includes a third row of seats.
Edmunds’ auto experts compare these two SUVs head-to-head to find out which is the better deal.
Engines and fuel consumption
The Land Cruiser is equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid engine that produces 326 horsepower. This robust torque helps the Land Cruiser be responsive at low speeds, though it takes a while to get up to speed on the highway. In testing, Edmunds found it took 8.2 seconds to get to 60 mph. That’s fine for everyday driving needs, though some buyers might want more power when passing on the highway. On the plus side, the 2024 Land Cruiser gets an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in combined city/highway driving.
When it comes to powertrain, the GX goes its own way. All-wheel drive is also standard, but under the hood is a 349-horsepower turbocharged V6 engine that propels the GX from 0 to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds. The trade-off is fuel economy. Since the GX doesn’t have a hybrid system like the Land Cruiser, it gets 17 mpg combined, according to the EPA.
Buyers who value efficiency may prefer the Land Cruiser, but for everyday driving the GX’s faster acceleration is more attractive.
Winner: Lexus GS
Features and Value
The five-passenger Land Cruiser lineup begins with the entry-level 1958 trim, which starts at $57,345 including destination, but it’s a somewhat stripped-down trim level. The more attractive offering is the mid-level trim level, known simply as the Land Cruiser, which starts at $63,695 and comes with more desirable features like ventilated front seats with leatherette upholstery, an upgraded 12.3-inch touchscreen, and a power liftgate.
For the GX 550, you’ll have to pay about the same amount as the mid-range Land Cruiser: $64,250. This premium base trim comes with a comparable number of standard features as the mid-range Land Cruiser. As a luxury model, the GX also offers many more high-end features than the Land Cruiser, including an optional premium Mark Levinson sound system and massaging front seats. Of course, these features come at a price. The top GX trims cost nearly $80,000.
Ultimately, the price difference between these two SUVs is smaller than you might think, and both offer solid value for money.
Winner: Draw
Driving and comfort
The body-on-frame construction makes the Land Cruiser and GX very capable even when paved roads are no longer to be found. Fortunately, the handling on paved roads is also commendable. Their upright design and large windows provide excellent outward visibility. The front seats in both models are supportive, but Edmunds found that the second row of seats offers less legroom than would be expected in vehicles of this size.
At more leisurely speeds, body control is good, putting it a step ahead of similar rivals like the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco. Compared to the Land Cruiser, the GX has key advantages in terms of quicker acceleration and greater stability under hard braking. And while neither feels particularly nimble when cornering briskly, the Lexus’ suspension feels a little more refined.
Winner: Lexus GX
Cargo space and towing
The GX is the only one of the two SUVs with a third row of seats. One downside is that they are very small and really only suitable for small children. When occupied, cargo space shrinks to just 10.3 cubic feet, though it expands to a more usable 40.2 cubic feet with the third row folded down. Open the back of the Land Cruiser and you have 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats.
When it comes to towing, the Lexus GX has an advantage. It is rated to pull up to 9,096 pounds when properly equipped. The Land Cruiser can tow a maximum of 6,000 pounds.
Winner: Lexus GS
Both SUVs impress with their above-average off-road capabilities. The Land Cruiser is attractive because of its traditional design and lower starting price. But compare it to the GX and you’ll find that you get a much better SUV for just a little more money.
