You might not easily discern the difference if you see the latest Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus GX 550 in passing. It’s an easy mistake to make when both flagship SUVs boast the same boxy shape and similar lines from front to back. However, the exterior design is largely where the similarities end. Let’s take a closer look.

Two Different Design Strategies

A peek into the interiors of these two SUVs quickly shows the difference in design strategies. One prefers a simple look with textured plastics and surfaces that can easily be wiped clean with a cloth. The other goes all out with matte wood finishes and stitched leather. The Land Cruiser is built for utility, and the GX 550 is built for comfort. Toyota and Lexus know their audiences.

The design language of the Toyota Land Cruiser speaks to practicality and tactile sensations. Large buttons and textured knobs dominate the landscape. The dash is designed for easy use without looking down. You can feel for the knob or button that you want. Higher trims do add some luxury touches, but it’s clear that the Land Cruiser’s cabin is meant to be used.

The Lexus GX 550 is bathed in subtle refinement from the leather trim and the wood frames, every inch looks strategically placed. The cabin features soothing ambient lighting, and higher trims go even further with lounge extras and rich textures.

Exterior Geometry

Although both vehicles have a similar boxy appearance, the Land Cruiser features rugged straight lines, generous ground clearance, and exposed tow points. The wheels come in either 18 or 20-inch sizes and are encased in all-terrain tires. At a glance, the Land Cruiser takes its off-road designation seriously.

On the other hand, the GX 550 is the largest vehicle you’ll see at your Lexus dealer. Its exterior is more sculpted than the Land Cruiser with a spindle grille and chiseled lines. The various trims add accents like chrome and matte black to further polish the look. Wheel sizes range between 20 inches and 22 inches.

To sum up, the Toyota Land Cruiser is designed to maximize its approach and departure angles, marking it as an off-road tool. The Lexus GX 550 is designed for a commanding and striking presence, though it, too, has impressive off-road chops.

Power and Purpose

The Land Cruiser and GX 550 also differ in how they generate power. The Land Cruiser uses a 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid powertrain that makes 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It’s geared for slow crawling in rocks, mud, and sand.

The GX 550 bypasses the hybrid idea and uses a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6 that makes 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It’s designed to tow, cruise in comfort, or tackle off-road trails. It doesn’t compromise in any area.

As you might expect, the Land Cruiser delivers better fuel economy at 23 mpg combined compared to 17 mpg combined for the GX 550.

Ultimately, the purpose of both vehicles is clear. The Lexus is designed to do just about anything you want it to do, and its price reflects that. On the other hand, the Land Cruiser is a practical and utilitarian SUV that Toyota designed to get dirty. Choose accordingly.