2007 Lexus LX470, 2004 Prius and 2002 Lexus LS430 - The best vehicles ever built?
The 2007 Lexus LX470: A Timeless Masterpiece
In the world of luxury SUVs, few vehicles have garnered as much respect and admiration as the 2007 Lexus LX470. Even years after its release, automotive enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike continue to sing its praises. What makes this vehicle so special? Let’s explore the reasons why the 2007 Lexus LX470 might just be the finest vehicle ever built.
Unmatched Reliability -
One of the most compelling reasons the 2007 Lexus LX470 stands out is its legendary reliability. Built on the same platform as the equally renowned Toyota Land Cruiser, the LX470 inherits a legacy of durability and longevity. Owners often report their vehicles surpassing 300,000 miles with minimal issues. This reliability is a testament to Lexus’s commitment to quality and engineering excellence, ensuring that the LX470 remains dependable even in the harshest conditions. This vehicle was built to last decades in third world countries.
Luxurious Comfort -
Step inside the LX470, and you’re immediately greeted by an atmosphere of luxury and sophistication. The interior is adorned with high-quality materials, including supple leather seats and rich wood trim. The spacious cabin offers ample room for passengers and cargo alike, making it perfect for both long road trips and everyday commutes. Features such as heated seats, a premium sound system, and advanced climate control further enhance the driving experience, ensuring that every journey is a pleasure. As a bonus all this luxury is also designed to last decades without fail.
Off-Road Capability -
While many luxury SUVs are content to stay on paved roads, the LX470 is built to conquer any terrain. Equipped with a robust four-wheel-drive system, adjustable height control, and various off-road driving modes, this vehicle is equally at home on rocky trails as it is on city streets. Its off-road prowess is complemented by a smooth, comfortable ride, thanks to its advanced suspension system, which can handle rough terrain without compromising on-road performance.
Timeless Design -
The design of the 2007 Lexus LX470 is another factor that contributes to its enduring appeal. Its exterior exudes a sense of strength and elegance, with a commanding presence that turns heads wherever it goes. The classic lines and understated styling have aged gracefully, allowing the LX470 to remain relevant and attractive even years after its debut. This timeless design ensures that the vehicle looks just as good today as it did when it first rolled off the production line.
Advanced Technology -
Despite being over a decade old, the LX470 was ahead of its time in terms of technology. It featured a host of advanced systems, including a navigation system, rear-seat entertainment, and an array of safety features such as stability control, anti-lock brakes, and multiple airbags. These technologies not only enhanced the driving experience but also ensured the safety and security of all passengers, cementing the LX470’s reputation as a forward-thinking vehicle.
Resale Value -
A testament to its enduring quality and desirability, the 2007 Lexus LX470 continues to hold its value remarkably well. Even today, well-maintained models command high prices on the used car market. This strong resale value is a clear indication of the vehicle’s lasting appeal and the trust that consumers place in the Lexus brand.
Conclusion - In a world where automotive trends come and go, the 2007 Lexus LX470 stands as a beacon of reliability, luxury, and capability. Its blend of unmatched reliability, luxurious comfort, off-road prowess, timeless design, advanced technology, and strong resale value make it a truly exceptional vehicle. While there are many great cars on the market, few can claim the same level of respect and admiration as the LX470. When it comes to the LX470 one can honestly say "They don't make them like they used to". 2007 was the last year for the 100 series Land Cruiser (aka LX470) and it was the best of the run. This was the peak of Lexus quality. Lexus will never again build a vehicle to match the 2007 LX470. For these reasons, the 2007 Lexus LX470 might just be the finest vehicle ever built. Honorable mention goes to the Lexus 2006 LS430 which is excellent and the finest sedan ever built.
Special Note: In order to get the most out of the vehicles mentioned here it takes care and maintenance. It's best to garage keep the vehicle when not in use. When the vehicle is used in road salt the areas exposed to the salt should be cleaned. Use mobile one oil and change it every 5,000 miles. Change air filters (engine and cabin) every 20,000 miles. Change coolant, transmission fluid, power steering fluid and gear oils every 60,000 miles. For vehicles with a timing belt change the belt, water pump and other related components every 100,000 miles or ten years. AHC (automatic height control fluid) should also be changed at 60,000 miles. I also like to flush the brake fluid at 60,000 miles if that wasn't already done during a brake job. For vehicles that are not driven often I do all of the above once every two years regardless of miles.
PS:
These are general guidelines. Your vehicle may need additional service to stay in top condition. If buying a used vehicle always confirm that it has been properly maintained and
NEVER wrecked. It should have all original paint and interior. No modifications. All original or OEM replacement parts. Nothing aftermarket. When replacing parts ALWAYS use actual Toyota parts!
What can go wrong with these amazing vehicles? What should you look at before you buy?
See video below:
Lexus LS430
The Lexus LS430: A Benchmark in Quality -
While the 2007 Lexus LX470 stands out in the SUV segment, its sedan counterpart, the Lexus LS430, is equally deserving of accolades for its quality and craftsmanship. Released in the early 2000s, the LS430 quickly became a benchmark in the luxury sedan market, setting new standards for refinement, comfort, and reliability.
Superior Build Quality -
The LS430 is renowned for its superior build quality, a hallmark of the Lexus brand. Every detail of the vehicle exudes precision and excellence, from the perfectly aligned panels to the meticulously crafted interior. Lexus engineers and designers spared no effort in ensuring that the LS430 provided an unparalleled driving experience. High-quality materials, such as rich leather upholstery, polished wood accents, and soft-touch plastics, create an opulent cabin environment that rivals even the most luxurious European sedans.
Quiet and Comfortable Ride -
One of the defining characteristics of the LS430 is its incredibly quiet and comfortable ride. The vehicle features extensive soundproofing, resulting in a serene cabin that isolates passengers from road noise and vibrations. Advanced suspension technology ensures a smooth ride, effortlessly absorbing bumps and imperfections on the road. Whether navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the LS430 delivers a tranquil and comfortable experience that leaves occupants feeling refreshed and relaxed.
Advanced Features and Technology -
The LS430 was ahead of its time in terms of technology and features. It offered a range of advanced systems that enhanced both convenience and safety. Keyless entry, adaptive cruise control, and a premium Mark Levinson audio system were just a few of the high-tech amenities available. The vehicle also prioritized safety with features such as an advanced airbag system, stability control, and anti-lock brakes. These innovations not only made the LS430 a pleasure to drive but also provided peace of mind to drivers and passengers alike.
Conclusion -
In conclusion, the Lexus LS430 exemplifies the brand's commitment to quality, luxury, and technological innovation. Its superior build quality, quiet and comfortable ride, and advanced features make it a standout in the luxury sedan market. Together, the 2007 Lexus LX470 and the LS430 represent the pinnacle of Lexus engineering and design, showcasing why Lexus has earned its reputation for building some of the finest vehicles on the road.
Pictured below is my 2002 Lexus LS430 on the day I bought it new:
More LX470 photos:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/areaguides/albums/72177720315272060
More LS430 photos:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/areaguides/albums/72157600336213439
It's quite possible that there will never be vehicles built to these high quality standards ever again. Lexus still makes the best vehicles on the market but their newer vehicles are more complicated and, due to government regulations, are not as heavy and well made. When vehicles are made to be lighter weight they can't be as overbuilt as they were in the golden era of Lexus. V8 engines are becoming a thing of the past. Even details like how many screws hold on a door panel tell the story of how overbuilt Lexus vehicles were in the mid-2000s. Peak quality was in the 2003-2007 timeframe.
2004 Toyota Prius
Honorable Mention: The 2004 Toyota Prius -
While discussing the finest vehicles ever built, it would be remiss not to mention the 2004 Toyota Prius. As the pioneer of the hybrid movement, the 2004 Prius deserves recognition for its groundbreaking impact on the automotive industry and its role in shaping the future of eco-friendly transportation. The 2004 Prius was made in Japan and the quality is first rate. Many examples have 300,000 plus miles and still going strong on the original hybrid battery pack.
Pioneering Hybrid Technology -
The 2004 Toyota Prius was a trailblazer in bringing hybrid technology to the mainstream market. At a time when fuel efficiency and environmental consciousness were becoming increasingly important, the Prius provided an innovative solution. Its hybrid powertrain, combining a gasoline engine with an electric motor, offered exceptional fuel efficiency and significantly reduced emissions. This pioneering technology set the stage for the widespread adoption of hybrid and electric vehicles in the years to come.
Exceptional Fuel Economy -
One of the most compelling features of the 2004 Prius was its exceptional fuel economy. With an EPA-estimated rating of around 60 miles per gallon in the city and 51 miles per gallon on the highway, the Prius was a game-changer for drivers looking to reduce their fuel expenses and environmental footprint. This impressive efficiency made the Prius a practical choice for daily commuting and long-distance travel, appealing to a wide range of consumers.
Practical and Versatile Design - The 2004 Prius also stood out for its practical and versatile design. Its compact yet spacious hatchback body style provided ample cargo space and comfortable seating for five passengers. The interior was thoughtfully designed with user-friendly controls and a futuristic digital display that showcased the vehicle’s hybrid status and fuel economy in real-time. This blend of practicality and innovation made the Prius a versatile and appealing option for families, commuters, and eco-conscious drivers alike.
Long-Lasting Impact -
The legacy of the 2004 Prius extends beyond its immediate success. It played a crucial role in raising awareness about the importance of fuel efficiency and environmental sustainability. By proving that hybrid technology could be both practical and desirable, the Prius paved the way for a new era of automotive innovation. Today, the principles and technologies introduced by the Prius continue to influence the design and development of modern vehicles, making it a significant milestone in automotive history.
Conclusion - In honoring the finest vehicles ever built, the 2004 Toyota Prius deserves a special mention for its pioneering hybrid technology, exceptional fuel economy, practical design, and lasting impact on the automotive industry. Together with the 2007 Lexus LX470 and the Lexus LS430, the 2004 Prius exemplifies the innovative spirit and commitment to quality that define Toyota and Lexus vehicles. Each of these models, in its own way, has left an indelible mark on the automotive world, showcasing the brilliance of thoughtful engineering and design. All three represent the best of the best. We may never see quality like this ever again.
Pictured below is my 2004 Toyota Prius that I bought new. It still runs great and has had only normal maintenance. The key to all these vehicles lasting a long time is keeping them in a garage and making sure ALL fluids are changed often. Photo taken in July of 2024.