Throwback: Lexus LX 570 J201 Concept Goes Off the Grid in Style

Lexus "Omotenashi"

"Omotenashi" is the term used to describe Japanese hospitality; the idea of anticipating and serving wholeheartedly. Lexus embodies this throughout its lineup, but the automaker's latest iteration of this credo comes in the form of the "J201 Concept", a Lexus LX 570 turned ultra-luxury overlander (J201 stems from the Lexus chassis and platform code used for the LX 570). The J201 Concept project is the result of a collaboration between Lexus and overlanding lifestyle brand, Expedition Overland. Check out how Lexus and Expedition Overland crafted the perfect vehicle for "Experiential Adventurers".

Drivetrain Upgrades

As we dive into the off-road enhancements featured on this J201, take note of the top-of-the-line choices used to complement the LX 570's already ultra-lux, highly capable profile; Expedition Overland spared no expense.

Under the hood, the standard 5.7-liter V-8 gets a healthy boost thanks to a Magnuson-sourced supercharger from 383 horsepower and 403 lb-ft of torque to 550 hp and 550 lb-ft of torque. Other drivetrain goodies include TJM Airtec Snorkel, ARB High-Performance Twin On-Board Compressor, and performance differentials - front and rear 4.30 Nitro Gears with ARB Air Lockers.

Also, while we're looking at the front, check out the 40-inch RIGID Industries SR-Series Spot Midnight light bar spanning above the windshield.

Suspension

Under the body, the stock suspension's upper and lower control arms receive an upgrade from Icon Vehicle Dynamics. Adjustments made to the OEM height sensors add additional lift (up to 4.8 inches of front and 4.1 inches of rear lift) in all drive modes.

Front Bumper

Moving on to the front end, CBI provides a lightweight armor to the bumper complete with winch mount and recovery points. Freeing the J201 from off-road obstacles will be thanks to a WARN Industries Zeon 10-S winch hidden below the Rigid Industries 30-inch RDS SR-Series Pro light bar. The 12-volt electric winch uses a 100-foot synthetic rope that can pull up to 10,000 lbs.

Rear Bumper

Heading to the back, a CBI off-road rear bumper system includes a ladder and dual swing-outs for the spare tire and Scepter 5-gallon water cans. Flush mounted Baja Designs S2 Sport Lighting flank both sides of the CBI bumper.

Although not visible in the picture above, CBI skid plates and rock sliders provide additional protection to the undercarriage.

Cargo Carrying

Up top, a low-profile Prinsu Design roof rack system with a noise-reducing-edge trim and scene lighting allows for functional cargo hauling or storage of a MAXTRAX recovery board in this case.

Cabin Storage

While we're on the topic of cargo and storage, inside the cabin, Expedition Overland dropped a Goose Gear drawer module with twin drawers into the rear cargo area. Atop the drawers you see Zero Halliburton Pursuit Aluminum travel luggage, for some extra flair.

Brakes, Wheels, and Tires

With the LX 570 curb weight already above 7,000 lbs, the additional weight from the overlanding equipment calls for an upgraded brake system. StopTech braking provides drilled front and rear rotors super sport Performance pads with color-matched brake calipers.

For rims, the J201 wears a set of 17-inch EVO Corse DakarZero Wheels.

For shoes, a set of 33-inch General Grabber X3 Tires improves grip and assists the ARB lockers to strengthen the J201's overall traction.

Final Word

As if this J201 didn't come with enough toys, an ARB LINX Accessory Interface is installed to the headliner to control the added lighting systems, the air lockers, compressor, monitor battery function, and function as an angle meter.

Lexus and Expedition Overland have created a beautifully capable overlander. While this custom build is only a concept, the J201 is certain to excite the passionate group of Lexus overlanders that hit the trails with their typically older, yet proven capable Lexus SUVs.

Base MSRP for a Lexus LX 570 is $86,580; should one wish to transform a brand new LX 570 into the J201 Concept, expect to add a couple of grand in aftermarket parts to that price tag, at least. 

>>Join the conversation about this offroad-ready LX 570 right here at ClubLexus.com.

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