Description

1996 Lexus LX450 Overlander – Rapidly developed in the mid-1990s as a result of threatening US trade sanctions on Japanese luxury cars, the LX 450 started production in November 1995 and was released to the US in January 1996 as a 1996 model. The LX 450 was Lexus’s first SUV and was almost entirely based on the sixth generation Toyota Land Cruiser (J80). Differences lay in a restyled, more luxurious interior and softer suspension settings. The LX 450 was powered by a 4.5-liter, twin-cam, four-valve inline-six engine that produced 160 kW (215 hp) and 373 N⋅m (275 lb⋅ft) of torque. Both front and rear axles were solid. Amenities included leather seats and seating for seven passengers in three rows, the third row accessed by tilting the second row bench seat forward. The third row could be folded to the side and the second row folded down for further space. The vehicle was pre-wired for the Lexus remote telephone system, and had a remote entry key system. The three options consisted of a console-mounted 6-disc CD changer, electronic front and rear locking differentials, and a power moonroof. Targeted against luxury SUV competitors such as Range Rover, the LX 450 sold over 5,000 units in 1996 and over 9,000 units in 1997. At its launch it sold out its initial production allocation, resulting in a two-month wait list, surpassing initial expectations which had called for 4,000 units that year. It was brought to market as US buyers showed greater interest in large SUVs, which had grown popular because of their high driver’s vantage point and truck-like characteristics.

Finding a solid and well maintained LX450 is no easy task. This beautiful example was part of a local gentleman’s car collection. Although his collection always topped 20 vehicles at any time, this was a favorite and driven regularly. Upon our successful purchase of this Lexus we completed all the upgraded seen in the photos. Over the last few months the LX was lifted, ARB bumpers were added, a snorkel was installed, the seats were recovered, lights and winch were added, and the rims and tires received a major upgrade. The lower body molding was also repainted in a custom bronze that matches the wheel centers. On the interior you will find the seats have been recovered in a thick neoprene that make for a very comfortable and easily cleanable surface. A complete list of feature and options includes; Inline 6 Cyl (24V), Auto, AWD, A/C, Airbags, Factory Alarm, ABS Brakes, ARB Bumpers, Center Console Storage, Cruise Control, Rear Heat, WeatherTech Rubber Floormats, Amber Fog Lights, Grill Guard, LED Lights, Old Man Emu Lift, Luggage Rack, Power Antenna, Power Windows/Locks/Mirrors, Power Sunroof, Rear Spoiler, Rear Window Defrost, Factory AM/FM/Cassette/CD Changer, Safari Snorkel, Third Row Seats, Tilt Steering, Tire Tools, Tinted Glass, Tow Package, Smittybuilt X20 10k lb Winch (w/nylon cable), Woodgrain Interior Trim, 18″ KMC XD Wheels, and New Milestar Patagonia LT285/65R18 Tires! Whether you are looking for a unique and dependable SUV or have some serious Overlanding planned in the near future, this LX450 can’t be beat! It’s has the right history, it has the right looks, and you won’t find more multi-functional SUV any where else for under $30k!