LEXUS GX550
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Land Rover Defender 110
A solid defender’s stance
Lexus GX550 “version L”
Defender 110 X-Dynamic HSE
Lexus GX550 “version L”
Defender 110 X-Dynamic HSE
The first generation “GX” was released in 2002 as the Lexus version of the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. The current model, which debuted as the third generation, follows the ladder frame chassis from the first generation, but is sold in Japan as the “GX550” as a luxury, authentic cross-country vehicle with a modern design and interior space.
The Defender comes in three body types: 90, 110, and 130, but the Defender 110 has almost the same body size as the GX550. The Lexus GX is 15mm longer in overall length, but the Defender 110 has a wheelbase that is 170mm longer, and this difference is also reflected in the stance of the two cars.
The exterior of both models is purposely free of flashy trim, aiming for modern luxury. The Defender’s solid form remains fresh even five years after its debut.
Lexus GX550 “version L”
Body size = Length 4960mm x Width 1980mm x Height 1920mm
Wheelbase = 2850mm
Vehicle weight = 2510kg
Tire size = 265/50R22
Defender 110 X-Dynamic HSE
Body size = Length 4945mm x Width 1995mm x Height 1970mm
Wheelbase = 3020mm
Vehicle weight = 2430kg
Tire size = 255/60R20
High cost performance thanks to diesel
Lexus GX550 “version L”
Defender 110 X-Dynamic HSE
The Lexus GL550 is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline twin-turbo engine, while the Defender 110 X-Dynamic HSE is equipped with a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder diesel turbo and a 48V mild hybrid system. The GL550 has a slightly higher maximum output, but the Defender 110 has about 50Nm more maximum torque.
In terms of fuel economy and cost performance, the diesel-powered Defender 110 X-Dynamic HSE is likely to win, but the GX is also expected to be available in a hybrid version based on a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline turbo.
Lexus GX550 “version L”
Engine type = V6 gasoline twin turbo
Displacement = 3444cc
Maximum output = 353PS / 4800-5200rpm
Maximum torque = 650Nm / 2000-3600rpm
Transmission = 10-speed AT
Drive system = AWD
Defender 110 X-Dynamic HSE
Engine type = Inline 6-cylinder diesel turbo + 48V mild hybrid
Displacement = 2993cc
Maximum output = 350PS/4000rpm
Maximum torque = 700Nm/1500-3000rpm
Transmission = 8-speed AT
Drive system = AWD
Defenders offer a wide range of options
Lexus GX550 “version L”
Defender 110 X-Dynamic HSE
Lexus GX550 “version L”
Defender 110 X-Dynamic HSE
While the Lexus GX550 is centered around a 14-inch touch display, the Defender 110 is equipped with an 11.4-inch touch display. The difference in cockpit sophistication is apparent from the time of their debut. Both can seat seven people in three rows, but the Defender takes advantage of its long wheelbase to offer excellent comfort in the second row.
The GX550 has a ladder frame that boasts outstanding off-road performance, while the Defender 110 has a monocoque chassis, but both offer sufficient performance, especially in the driving ranges used by Japanese users.
Although the price of the latest model, the GX550, is nearly 2 million yen more expensive, the Defender’s extensive equipment, worthy of the Lexus name, is a major advantage. Another major attraction of the Defender is the wide range of options available in terms of body size, power unit, and equipment level, including the 110 X-Dynamic HSE, which we chose as a rival to the GX550.
