The Lexus GX has long been a favorite among off-road enthusiasts in the know. For years, it quietly delivered impressive capability wrapped in an understated package. But with the arrival of the third-generation GX, Lexus has shed the cloak of anonymity and embraced a bolder, more rugged design language. This begs the question: has the GX550 retained the soul of its predecessors while stepping into the limelight? As a seasoned Lexus GX owner and off-road enthusiast, I was eager to find out. Lexus generously invited me to experience the new GX both on and off-road in the Sonoran Desert, and I’m ready to share my findings.
A New Era for the GX: Embracing Capability and Style
The first thing that struck me about the 2024 GX550 is its imposing presence. Gone are the rounded edges of the previous generation, replaced with a chiseled, boxy silhouette that leaves no doubt about its intentions. This is a vehicle designed to conquer trails and transport families with equal confidence.
Size Matters: Comparing the GX550
The GX550 has grown significantly compared to its predecessors. Here’s how it stacks up against the GX460, GX470, and competitors like the Land Rover Defender 110 and Ineos Grenadier:
| Model | Length (in) | Width (in) | Height (in) | Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GX470 | 188.20 | 74.00 | 74.60 | 4871 |
| GX460 | 189.20 | 74.20 | 73.80 | 5128 |
| GX550 | 197.00 | 78.00 | 75.40 | 5467 |
| Defender 110s | 187.30 | 79.10 | 77.40 | 5165 |
| Grenadier | 191.20 | 76.00 | 80.70 | 5875 |
This increase in size translates to a more spacious interior, especially in the cargo area, which can now accommodate all your overlanding gear with room to spare.
Powertrain: Embracing Turbocharging
Under the hood, the GX550 bids farewell to the venerable 4.6-liter V8 and welcomes a new 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6. This engine, while smaller in displacement, delivers a significant boost in power and torque, generating 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, the GX550 feels surprisingly quick and responsive both around town and on the open road.
On-Road Refinement: Balancing Comfort and Capability
While the GX550 excels off-road, it’s no slouch on pavement either. The ride is comfortable and composed, although some body roll is noticeable in corners. The steering is light and precise, making maneuvering this large SUV a breeze. Interior noise levels are well-managed, creating a serene and refined cabin environment.
Off-Road Prowess: Where the GX Truly Shines
Off-road is where the GX550 truly shines, especially in the off-road-oriented Overtrail trim. With features like a locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control, and electronically controlled Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (eKDSS), the GX550 makes even challenging terrain feel manageable. The eKDSS, in particular, is a game-changer, providing exceptional wheel articulation and keeping the body remarkably level even over uneven terrain.
User-Friendly Tech: Designed for the Trail
Lexus has taken a refreshingly straightforward approach to the GX550’s off-road controls. Instead of burying settings in touchscreen menus, the GX550 features dedicated buttons and dials for essential functions like low-range engagement and differential locking. This makes it easy to adjust settings on the fly, even when bouncing along a rugged trail.
Should You Buy One?
The 2024 Lexus GX550 is a compelling blend of luxury, capability, and rugged charm. It’s a vehicle that’s equally at home navigating city streets and conquering challenging off-road trails. While the starting price of $64,250 might give some buyers pause, the GX550’s impressive capabilities, comfortable interior, and legendary Toyota reliability make it a compelling value proposition in the competitive luxury SUV segment. If you’re looking for a go-anywhere, do-anything vehicle that doesn’t compromise on comfort or refinement, the GX550 deserves a place at the top of your list.