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Faced with the lack of a sport-utility vehicle amid booming demand, Lexus did what many auto makers do these days: It borrowed one. The LX450 is a variation of the Land Cruiser, a venerable Toyota product that predates more-common Explorers and Blazers by about three decades. Lexus is Toyota's "luxury division," so the loan didn't require crossing enemy lines. The LX450 is a near match for the Cruiser, but with a plusher ride and cosmetic differences. Lexus adds standard leather and climate control. But the $47,500 MSRP exceeds that of the Land Cruiser by more than $7,000. It would be cheaper to simply "option up" a Cruiser. But then your neighbors wouldn't see a Lexus in your driveway. Capable and comfortable, the LX450 feels like it's V8-powered, but a big inline six does the job, and presumably prevents what could be even poorer fuel economy. My test vehicle got a dismal 12.6 mpg around town. The four-wheel drive is permanently engaged, and unlike lesser systems, includes a low-range transfer case. An optional pair of front and rear differential locks ($900) provide what off-roaders call "true four-wheel drive." Locking all four wheels together ensures at least one will get torque even in horrendous conditions. This benefit is less likely to come into play during the average Lexus driver's lifetime than, say, a gun rack. But overqualification is what SUVs are all about. As expected in a Toyota product, the build quality is impeccable. In the rear, tall people may have a problem due to unremarkable head and leg room. Short people might have trouble climbing in, because of the lofty 21-inch step-up height. Heat and cooled air vented to the rear seat, but the rear-seat fan is cntrolled only by the driver. The third-row seat redefines "split-fold." Each half swings upward to be anchored against the wall, leaving the floor unoccupied for cargo. Alternatively, the seats can be removed altogether. At 73.6 inches and nearly 5,000 pounds, the Land Cruiser is a bit taller than I am, and a lot heavier. It fits into a standard-size garage, but barely. Occasionally, you may prefer to leave it out. For the neighbors. 1996 Lexus LX450
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