The GX body-on-frame SUV occupies a special place in the Lexus vehicle lineup. As Toyota's premium brand, most people associate Lexus with smooth pavement luxury and vehicles like the popular RX crossover or the RC and LC sports cars. But there's a notable exception to that rule, and it's the GX. This SUV is based on the same mechanical underpinnings as the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser, and it's made to be as poised and capable on the trail as it is at the country club.
The GX line has just had a complete redesign. This SUV is still built using Toyota's scalable body-on-frame architecture, shared in common with the Tundra and Tacoma pickups, and other large SUVs. But instead of the venerable 5.7-liter V8 engine, the GX uses a 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6, which produces 349 horsepower and a whopping 479 pound-feet of torque. That's plenty of power, especially because the GX uses a 10-speed automatic transmission, so the SUV is always in the best possible gear.
Along with the body-on-frame construction, the GX has a real dual-range four-wheel drive system, like a truck. So when the going gets rough, you can shift the GX to low-range gears for extra torque. This pairs well with the technology that will allow you to set the GX to crawl over impressive obstacles that you wouldn't expect from a Lexus. Let's be clear -- this is no Jeep Rubicon, but it's also not a poser boulevard 4X4. You can actually get the GX muddy and live to tell about it.
From the outside, the new GX is dramatically different from the outgoing model. Where the outgoing GX was traditionally Lexus -- designed to blend in with the trends among crossovers -- the new model is boldly crafted, with an upright windshield and flat hood. Large fender flares surround large 20-inch wheels on the standard models, and 18-inch wheels with tall sidewall tires in the optional Overtrail models. Honestly, if I covered the badge and told you it was a Land Rover, you would probably believe me, because the new GX has that squared-off all-business look that we associated with the British Rover or a Jeep.
Inside, you get the attention to detail that you expect from Lexus. All the modern conveniences are there, even in the most basic "Premium" trim. There's an available head-up display, but every GX will carry a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment and control center. A Mark Levinson audio system is available. Seating can be ordered for 7 passengers with a bench seat in the second row, or for 6 with the optional captain's chairs. Front seats are both heated and ventilated, and heat is optional on the outboard second row seats.
As a Lexus, you also get the latest in safety gear. The Lexus Safety System 3.0+ includes features such as emergency steering assistance with pedestrian detection, left-turn oncoming vehicle detection, as well as standards like adaptive cruise control, emergency forward braking, lane departure, road sign assistance, and proactive driving assistance.
On the road, the GX is a perfect Lexus. It's tight and steady without being soft, and it's quick without being self-consciously overpowered. When you get off-road, a momentary shift to neutral or park allows you to change to low gear with the touch of a switch, and then you're ready to take on the back country. When you hit pavement again, it's just as easy to go back into civilized mode. Wherever you're headed, the GX is going to get you there in comfort.
One point to call out is the pricing. The 2024 Lexus GX starts at a very reasonable $64,250. That gets you a long list of standard features, but you can upgrade to Luxury or Luxury+ trim and the price goes up only to $81,250 at most. Still the Premium, Premium+, and Overtrail trims are all available between $64,250 and $69,250. When you compare the luxurious Lexus against other full-size SUVs, you'll find that it's easily possible to spend a lot more and get a lot less. If you're looking in the luxury SUV market this year, you'll want to make time to visit the Lexus dealer.
2024 Lexus GX 550
Base price: $64,250
Price as tested: $69,250
Type: Full-size SUV
Engine: 3.4-liter twin turbo V6 (349 hp, 479 lbs-ft)
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
EPA estimated mileage: 15/21
Overall length: 197 inches
Curb weight: 5,705 pounds
Final assembly: Tahara, Japan
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