Generally speaking, overland vehicles are not synonymous with luxury. Instead, overlanders seek out platforms with a reputation for rugged dependability and capability that are serviceable in the field (the iconic 70 Series being a coveted choice). However, there are a select few vehicles that provide all of the above while also offering interior luxury and refinement, and the Lexus GX 470 is one of them. This desirable platform is underpinned by the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and thus carries forward its counterpart’s fabled reliability and go-anywhere performance while also introducing a well-equipped interior that reduces driver fatigue. It was for these reasons and others that Overland Journal chose the Lexus as a project vehicle and showcased the finished build on the Expedition Portal YouTube channel. It’s also a popular choice on our forum, with recent examples including this stunning 2005 offering from Adventure Motors. However, previous offerings pale in comparison to today’s 2007 build (248,000 miles), which is not just the best GX 470 we’ve featured but arguably one of the nicest rigs we’ve showcased, period.
From the Seller:
“So, I’ve typically driven junky old trucks with more character than reliability. I got this new job that required me to drive—a lot. My 1982 4WD Toyota Pickup wasn’t loving it, so I decided I would check out what the Craigslist 4WD truck market was like with more modern 4WDs. I was thinking of a used Tacoma or F-150. I just about fell out of my seat seeing the prices. So, then I thought, maybe a 4Runner? It just got worse. Then I remember reading on a forum, ‘GX 470 … basically a Landcruiser Prado 120.’ And that is when I discovered the goldmine just before the gold rush. I realized I could get this weird-looking GX 470 for half the price of a 4Runner, and it had seat heaters. Sold! I got this truck purely because it was the only reliable 4WD I could afford that was even somewhat close to its Blue Book value so that my bank would finance some of it. Once the deal was done and I was in the vehicle, I started drawing tons of inspiration from more touring-style vehicles from Australia and South Africa—trucks that are built for long highway drives, moderate off-road terrain, and completely focused on functionality for the purpose of extended camping trips.
This vehicle has taken me from the PNW to the tip of Cabo San Lucas. I have built it to be the ultimate touring vehicle, prioritizing camping and comfort on the road for days/weeks at a time. It has been featured at SEMA 2022, was chosen as a Top 5 Vehicle of Overland Expo West 2023, and has been the face of the Nomad Wheels brand at countless overland shows.”
2007 Lexus GX 470
The GX 470 is fitted with a 4.7-liter V8 motor that produces 275 horsepower, 332 pound-feet of torque, and returns a combined 13 mpg. An exceptionally long-lived engine and drivetrain are matched with impressive capability thanks to a body-on-frame design, full-time 4WD, high and low range, locking center differential, and more. These rugged credentials are balanced with sumptuous interior luxury with driver comforts that include:
- Scheel-Mann seats
- Leather-trimmed and powered tilt steering wheel
- Remote entry
- Cruise control
- Programmable garage door opener
- Rugged Radio GMRS
- Weathertech mats
- Rosen visors
- Dual-zone climate control
- Premium 11-speaker audio
- Infotainment system with navigation
- Overhead console with sunglass holder
- Rear 115-volt power outlet
- Power steering, windows, locks, and mirrors
Distinguishing Features
- Campteq roof conversion
- Ironman front and Kaymar rear bumper(s)
- ARB twin air compressor
- Viato drawer system
- Nomad Sahara wheels with Kenda Klever RT tires
- Dometic drawer fridge
- Baja Designs auxiliary lighting and Teq Customs headlights
- Safari snorkel
- Redarc BCDC auxiliary system wired for solar
- King 2.5-inch remote reservoir shocks, Metal Tech coil conversion, Icon heavy springs, adjustable sway links, SPC upper control arms, and more
- Revel USA exhaust
- Toyo Steering HD kit, gusseted and reamed spindles, 200 Series tie rods, and OEM rack
- sPod BantamX
This 2007 Lexus GX 470 is listed for $45,000 and is currently located in Los Angeles, California.
Contact Information
Email: carter@nomadwheels.com
Tel: 949- 413-2585
Instagram: @carter_pdf