Aluminum (LC300/LX600/LX700) vs Steel (LC250/GX550) body panels

[n0m@d]

https://youtu.be/zxRIokc5b3Q - this video discusses the different materials used for body panels in the GX and LC (though no sources are linked). The author primarily focuses on the benefits of aluminum and the downsides of steel, criticizing Toyota for cost-cutting in the GX production. While I understand the author's points, I'm not entirely convinced that Lexus' motivation was purely cost-cutting. Many reviewers have mentioned the "tinny" feel of the LC's doors and the cheap, hollow sound when you knock on them. I haven’t had the chance to experience the GX firsthand, but I’ve never seen any complaints about that issue with it. What do you think—could Lexus have used steel panels for the GX to give it a more premium, substantial feel and better durability?

Disclaimer: I personally happy with my LC and don't want to start any GX vs LC holly war, just pure engineering curiosity

 

[APIOQM]

That's a Lexus LX in the first photo. The LC250 shares the same materials as the GX.

 

[Mtn40]

I wish we did have more AL in the 250. It would be nice to not worry about doors and roof ever rusting.

Cries in rusty FJ40.

 

[bkral]

Those pictures are different bodies entirely.

 

[n0m@d]

That's a Lexus LX in the first photo. The LC250 shares the same materials as the GX.

Those pictures are different bodies entirely.

The comparison is actually between LC300(LX600/700) and GX550. My bad, my morning brain made a shortcut and assumed that it also applies to LC250 . I've just magnet-checked all the panels on LC250 and all of them (but hood) are steel (same as GX550 on the pics). Sorry for the confusion

 

[Blue Sky]

Yeah it's a bummer, they could saved quite a bit of weight. But I live in hail country, maybe the steel panels will be more dent resistant...to a point.

 

[misfits9095]

I just want to say I am really glad that aluminum was used sparingly on the LC250. My last truck was a jeep wrangler JL and it suffered from aluminum corrosion. Aluminum corrosion causes paint to bubble and peel off. The repair requires body panels to be replaced the vehicle to be repainted. It is not a body problem that can be patched and painted because the corrosion comes back.

Other downside people don’t consider, aluminum panels dent easily and it is difficult to have a Painless dent place fix the panel.