I currently own a 2014 LS460 F Sport and a 1999 RX300, both AWD. Next year I would like to buy a used LX. I'm thinking an older one, but let explain my thoughts and get some advice from all of you.

I am looking for ultimate luxury for long road trips. This will also be used for off roading, camping, etc so will need to be rugged. I am willing to upgrade suspension, brakes etc as needed.

On top of that I want top notch technology. I understand the older models will not have the technology as the new ones, but I'm hoping to change that. In my RX300, to add an aftermarket screen to allow carplay and other things, it's nearly impossible, and the options that are out there have some pretty poor reviews. I watched a custom build on an older Tahoe that used an iPad in the dash to control all audio. I'm wondering if that could be an option. I figured the dash would have to be remade, and I wonder about the climate controls at that point.

I will be adding a cell phone booster, some sort of CB radio option and other things. I think the best way to explain my exterior thoughts is almost like an overland build. Plenty of lights, maybe lifted, maybe a bush guard, etc.

I will be towing my jet ski a lot and a camper from time to time. I will be hauling 1-2 bicycles and/or 1-2 kayaks, i figured on the roof.

So with all of that said, what year do you all feel would best suit my needs and why. And, thoughts on technology options and ipad build?

Thanks everyone!

*edit*
A couple more thoughts.

1) i hear the 570 is bulletproof. If so, I'm assuming that would limit the years.

2) i will take my time to buy one. I will be looking in rust free zones, perfect service records, etc. i will be in no rush. This will also be my adventure vehicle that i will probably keep for 10 years or maybe longer. I would like to keep it until i retire in 20 ish years, but who knows.

 

2017 was the first my with the snow plow grill, effectively limiting ground clearance and what's called the "approach angle".

Out of what's left to chose, that leaves the 2016 as the truck with newer technology. a 200 series will tow anything you mentioned, a brake controller imo is worth the money as it saves your brakes, which are a lot of money.

The one thing you failed to mention is your budget.

 

thanks for the info and great question! The answer is a bit tricky.

so initial answer is budget isnt too much of an issue, but my main vehicle is my LS, which I will probably replace within the next 2 years so $80k-$100k on my primary vehicle, for my purposes i feel is foolish to drop too much on my adventure vehicle since i will be adding so much after market.

with that said, as i sit today (and could change my mind after more info from you and other members) i was thinking up to $20k for the LX. I understand that would mean an older one, but that means that most technology would be aftermarket. I read online today that the 2014 has 10 computers in it and the 2021 has nearly double that. Granted, this was just one article so who knows how true it is. I guess i have to weigh out both options.

so for instance, there are a few people that have posted youtube videos of adding that tesla style screen that controls sound, climate etc and they even added an aftermarket 360 degree camera view that the newer ones have. Is it any good? I have no clue. But that has me thinking most of the technology and features i would use could be done as aftermarket.

so if i could get an older solid LX for under $20k and was able to add or adjust things as needed, that feels right. I guess 2 main questions to the older ones would be engine and transmission solid? Ive read yes. And is the comfort still great on lets say a 2004 like it is in a 2014 (i know wont be as good but dont want to feel like ive been riding in a 1997 for ranger lol)?

oh, here is another question. Ill check google later i suppose, but i think the 2014's have a 6 speed transmission. How about the older ones? If they are 4 speed i think it would be smart to stay away from those, right?

 

I've got no idea as to '14 transmissions...mine is a '13 Land Cruiser with a 6-speed. Lexus/Toyota did a TSB upgrade on the 8-speeds due to goofy shifting. 100 series have either 4 or 5 speeds, depending on year. That translates to 3 or 4 speeds with overdrive that can be turned off or on. Both are as reliable as later models.