looking for a new rig

newtoy

newtoy

Active Member
Location
St. George
I have recently decided that I want a new rig, but I am unsure of what will best meet my needs. This will be my daily driver, and office delivery vehicle, but since it will be mine I would also like it to be capable of some mild camping/exploring. I do have a few kids so I need seating for 6/ 3 rows, but I don’t want a suburban. I find that I am drawn to the 100 series land cruiser/ LX470, and the GX470. I like the size of the GX but don’t feel there is any aftermarket support for it. Is there something else I should also be looking at? My price range is around 15,000.
thanks
 
As always I would recommend getting a Montero because the are in that size you are describing and they seat 7 passengers. The 1995-2000 Monteros were a body on frame construction with a live rear axle and rear locker. The Montero can handle 33-35" tires without requiring a lift or fender trimmiming and 37" tires with a small body lift and a little bit of fender trimming. The 2001-2006 Monteros are independent suspension both front and rear like the new Land Cruisers. The are very capable on the trail yet handle more like sports car on the road. While the aftermarket is limited ARB make snorkels, bumpers, front and rear lockers, lift kits and a few other accessories for your out door adventures. The are 7-8 other aftermarket manufactures that produce low range gear sets for the transfer case, sliders, roof racks, ect.
 
My understanding if that the GX470 is built on the same frame as the 4Runner and shared the same suspension & drivetrain, but the body layout and interior are slightly different. If the Lexus has 3rd row seating, I would imagine it's not easy to utilize and probably pretty cramped, as the 4Runner isn't large in size.

For what you're describing, I would spend some time looking at and driving a 100 Series Land Cruiser. You should be able to find a nice older one in your price range and they are excellent vehicles for what you're describing. I do agree with Rot Box though, you load it up with 6 people + gear for a weekend camping trip and it's going to be TIGHT!
 
The 100 is a great platform, but 5 people and gear is tight. We rolled back from Baja (actually LV to SLC) 5 up in the hundy and it was completely liveable but would get old fast. They are quickly becoming one of the more popular platforms I sell parts for and work on, I've likely had a dozen different ones in the shop this year alone. The V8 power, stout drive train yet comfortable street manners make them great multi use platform.
 
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