A deep dive into our content specialist’s personal overland build.

Jacob Colmenero (@officialsus) is the Content Specialist at KC HiLiTES, where he brings stories to life through film, photography, and media strategy. From product launches to trail-tested gear features, he is the creative force behind much of the brand’s visual storytelling.

Outside the office, Jacob’s passion for the outdoors runs deep. He’s an avid off-roader, weekend adventurer, and full-time family man. His current project, an overland-built 2005 Lexus GX470, is more than a rig. It’s a reflection of his love for exploration and craftsmanship. With every upgrade and trail-tested mile, he’s blending his creative eye with rugged terrain to showcase the spirit of the overland lifestyle.

Jacob has recently been putting KC’s Platform One™ system roof rack to the test, logging real-world trail miles, dialing in accessory setups, and ensuring it’s ready for everything from remote filming missions to family camping trips. Like the rest of his build, it’s all about function, durability, and making the journey just as exciting as the destination.

Is a 2005 Lexus the Best Choice for Overlanding?

Why did Jacob choose a 2005 Lexus GX470 for his build? Let’s take a closer look.

A 2005 Lexus GX470 may seem like an odd choice, but the truth is, across the pond it really is a go-to choice for off-roading and overland adventures. All around the world, Toyota delivered the Land Cruiser Prado, a light-duty Land Cruiser with a smaller footprint than the full-size version. It even came triple locked on some trims. However, the States were blessed with the more luxurious, less rugged Lexus GX470. Even with the Lexus version being more dedicated to picking up the kids from soccer practice than tackling the Rubicon, it still has some decent chops from the factory. When one decides to swap out the suspension and throw some bigger tires on, the GX470 can now party with the Prados!

The major objective of Jacob’s build was to create a capable off-road vehicle that would not only be comfortable on long drives across the country but also self-reliant while out on the trail. Outfitted with 315 amp hours of KC’s very own concept power solutions, his truck can power almost anything he needs while creating content off the grid.

Build Specifications

Armor & Protection

  • Coastal Off-Road High Clearance Front Bumper
  • Coastal Off-Road Extreme High Clearance Rear Bumper
  • Warn Winch with Factor 55 accessories
  • Coastal Off-Road Sliders

Storage & Interior

  • Complete custom storage and drawer system for organizing gear
  • Iceco APL55 Fridge/Freezer on a DFG Offroad fridge tilt slide
  • Expedition Essentials Accessory mount
  • Rugged Radios G1 GMRS Radio and M1 Race Radio

Roof Rack & Accessories

  • KC Platform One™ roof rack with modular crossbars
  • Three 50W KC x Sunflare BLOX solar panels mounted on the roof
  • KC Solar Charge Hub mounted to the roof rack
  • Zarges 31011686 and 40810 mounted directly to the roof for extra storage
  • FSR 270 Awning
  • Two KC Grab Handles
  • Four KC Tie Down Mounts
  • One Antenna Mount
  • Two FE1 Light Mounts
  • One Chase Bar Mount
  • One Awning Tie Down Mount

Power System

  • Three KC Group 27 LiFePO4 105Ah battery system (concept)
  • Renogy 2000W inverter supporting charging camera batteries and powering other camera equipment
  • Renogy DC-to-DC charger
  • KC Solar Charge Hub mounted to the roof rack

Lighting

  • Overhead Lights - 50" Gravity® Titan® Light Bar mounted to the roof rack
  • Front Bumper Lights - 3 FLEX ERA® 4 lights
  • Front Bumper Lights - 4 FLEX ERA® 3 lights
  • Head Lights - Custom Freedom Outfitter KC FLEX ERA® 3 lights as high beams
  • Ditch Lights - KC FLEX ERA® 3 lights
  • Side Flood Lights - 10” Profile™ SideCast Lights (prototypes) flush-mounted to the roof rack
  • Chase Lights - KC Chase Light Bar
  • Cargo Lights - 4 FLEX ERA® 1 lights mounted to the rear of the roof rack and under the rear bumper
  • Interior Lights - Cyclones for rear hatch visibility
  • Underhood Lights - Cyclones
  • Rock Lights - 10 Cyclones

Wheels & Tires

Suspension

  • 3-inch Dobinsons MRR Shocks
  • Dobinsons Billet Front Upper Control Arms
  • Dobinsons Lower and Upper Rear Control Arms
  • Dobinsons Panhard Bar
  • Eimkeith Panhard Correct Plate
  • Dobinsons Long Travel Rear Springs
  • Dobinsons Front and Rear Hydraulic Bump Stops
  • Perry Parts Complimentary Rear Bump Stops

Jacob’s 2005 Lexus GX470 proves that with the right upgrades, even an older luxury SUV can become a competent overland rig. From the KC Platform One™ roof rack system to a full suite of FLEX ERA® lighting and an off-grid-ready power setup, this GX is built to handle long-distance travel, rugged terrain, and remote media production alike. Whether you’re searching for inspiration for your Lexus GX470 overland build or want to learn more about integrating solar power, onboard battery systems, and trail-tested lighting, Jacob’s rig is a powerful example of what’s possible when function meets creativity.


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