LX 450 Off-Road Build Could Become the Perfect Overlanding Rig!
The matte gray 1997 LX 450 includes a suspension lift, off-road wheels, and roof rails.
Though most never go off the paved path, the Lexus LX is a capable off-roader. After all, it’s a more luxurious version of the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser. With bones like that, and a legacy to match, it’s easy to see the LX in the same light.
In fact, some already have, outfitting their LXs to head into the great outdoors as overlanders. One such example is this 1997 LX 450 on Bring a Trailer. It looks the part so far, but there’s more work ahead for its next owner to get the Lexus to where it needs to be.
The current owner picked up the LX 450 last year, when it was originally white. Now wearing Matte Storm Gray, the Lexus looks tougher. Of course, that’s not all the owner did. For instance, the SUV now rides upon a lifted suspension, each corner shod in 18-inch black wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich all-terrains. Roof rails, running boards and tow hooks boost the off-roadability of the LX.
Moving those off-road wheels is the 4.5-liter 1FZ-FE inline-six. In its day, it made 215 horses and 275 lb-ft of torque, all of it sent to the corners through a four-speed auto and dual-speed transfer case. Nearly 25 years later, the durable inline-six boasts 209,000 miles on the odometer, 1,000 of which were added by the seller. Of course, when you’re talking about a Lexus, that number simply means the engine is just starting to enter its prime.
Within the cozy confines of the LX 450, the three-row seating received some fresh gray leather. The rest of the interior also matches the new leather, while the headliner received a retrim in gray Alcantara. As for tech upgrades, a rear view camera and a Sony touchscreen infotainment unit are the big ticket items.
Combined with refreshed maintenance items, the LX 450 is ready for its next adventure. Whether the new owner leaves it as-is or takes the build further into the wilderness is a whole other matter. We suspect this is the first step in this Lexus’s new life, though.
Photos: Bring a Trailer
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