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When talking about unshakable reliability, luxury, and rugged endurance, no name resonates more than Lexus. As Toyota's luxury arm, Lexus has built an ironclad reputation for producing some of the world’s most dependable vehicles. And while most people are familiar with Lexus sedans and hybrids, one SUV quietly built a legacy as a true off-road warrior wrapped in luxury.
Enter the Lexus LX470 — an SUV that isn’t just reliable. It’s legendary.
Why the Lexus LX470 Deserves Icon Status
Not everyone knows about the LX470, especially outside North America. But for those who do, it’s nothing short of a luxury tank — capable of tackling the harshest terrains while pampering its passengers with plush interiors and top-tier build quality.
Built on the Toyota Land Cruiser J100 Platform
The secret behind the LX470's long life? Its Toyota Land Cruiser DNA. Specifically, it shares its bones with the Land Cruiser Amazon (J100) — a vehicle revered across the globe for its near-indestructibility.
Lexus LX470 Specs at a Glance
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.7-liter V8 |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic (1998–2001), 5-speed automatic (2002–2005) |
| Horsepower | 230–268 hp |
| Torque | 328 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | Full-time 4WD with low-range gearing |
| Suspension | Adaptive Height Control & Adjustable Dampers |
Why the LX470 Is the Most Reliable Lexus SUV Ever Made
Built like a tank, runs like a dream
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Owners have crossed 300,000–500,000+ miles with minimal issues
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One LX470 is documented at over 545,000 miles and still going strong
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Only one NHTSA recall — exceptional by any standard
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Annual repair cost: Just $512, according to RepairPal — unheard of for a full-size luxury SUV
It’s not just reliable for a luxury SUV. It’s reliable by any automotive standard.
Off-Road Royalty with Executive Comfort
While it was positioned to compete with luxury American SUVs like the Cadillac Escalade, off-road enthusiasts quickly discovered its secret: under the leather and wood trim was a world-class expedition vehicle.
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Off-road features include crawl control, center locking differential, and high ground clearance
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Comfortable enough for city drives, but capable of crossing deserts, mountains, and jungles
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Became a favorite among overlanders and adventurers looking for rugged comfort
How Does the LX470 Compare to Other Lexus SUVs?
Lexus GX – The Little Brother That’s Just as Tough
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Based on the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
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2018 model scores 91/100 for reliability (J.D. Power)
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Slightly higher maintenance at $770/year
Lexus RX – The Everyday Hero
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One of the first hybrid SUVs
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2010 RX 450h scores 93/100 (J.D. Power)
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Owners report 300,000+ miles
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Maintenance: $540/year
Lexus NX – Compact and Contemporary
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Shares its platform with the Toyota RAV4
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2021 model scores 88/100
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Maintenance: $690/year
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21% chance of major repair in 5 years — still 18% better than segment average
Lexus UX – The Urban Cruiser
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Based on the Toyota Corolla/CH-R
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2019 model scores 88/100
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Very affordable to maintain: $551/year
Top 5 Non-Lexus SUVs That Compete on Reliability
If Lexus isn't in your budget or you’re exploring alternatives, here are other rock-solid SUV options known for long-term durability and low maintenance.
| SUV Model | Reliability Score (J.D. Power) | Avg. Annual Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Honda CR-V (2008, 2011) | 90/100 | $407 |
| Toyota RAV4 (2010, 2018) | 88/100 | $429 |
| Toyota 4Runner (2017, 2021) | 88/100 | $514 |
| Kia Sportage (2020) | 89/100 | $462 |
| Lexus RX | 93/100 | $540 |
Pro tip: If you’re looking for Toyota reliability without the Lexus price tag, the Toyota 4Runner and Honda CR-V offer an unbeatable mix of performance, value, and simplicity.
How the Lexus LX470 Can Save You Money
Despite its luxury status and size:
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It’s cheaper to maintain than many mid-size SUVs
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Its bulletproof reliability means fewer breakdowns and repairs
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It holds value extremely well in the used SUV market, especially among collectors and off-road enthusiasts
Should You Buy a Used Lexus LX470 in 2025?
Absolutely — if you can find one.
The LX470 has become a modern classic. With many units still going strong at 20+ years old, it’s a testament to what happens when engineering excellence meets Japanese craftsmanship.
Whether you're:
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Looking for a long-lasting family hauler
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Building your overlanding dream rig
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Or simply want a piece of automotive history that won’t quit…
…the Lexus LX470 is one of the best-used SUVs you can buy.
Final Thoughts: A Luxury Tank for the Ages
In an era of planned obsolescence, the Lexus LX470 is a rare beast — a vehicle that refuses to die. It’s built to last, surprisingly affordable to maintain, and luxurious enough to spoil its owners while surviving apocalyptic conditions.
It’s not just the most reliable Lexus SUV ever built — it’s a symbol of Toyota’s engineering legacy and one of the finest luxury off-roaders of all time.
