Fully redesigned for 2024, the Lexus GX retains its body-on-frame design but gets all-new styling, a more-powerful engine and additional technology features. Similar to the also-new Toyota Land Cruiser, the Lexus GX is offered with 5- and 7-passenger seating configurations and comes standard with four-wheel drive. Competitors include the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L, Land Rover Defender 100 and Defender 130, and Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon.
The GX lineup includes Premium, Premium +, Overtrail, Overtail +, Luxury and Luxury + trim. Right now, all models get a turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 that makes 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. It mates to a 10-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with four-wheel drive that offers low-range gearing. Maximum towing capacity when properly equipped is 8,000 pounds. Lexus has said a hybrid model is on the way, likely being the i-Force Max hybrid found in other Toyota and Lexus products.
Prices start at start at $64,000 and climb to more than $82,000. Standard safety features include Forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assistance, lane-centering system and adaptive cruise control. Other standard features include 20-inch wheels, power liftgate, sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, 14-inch infotainment touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. Overtrail models add off-road-ready 18-inch wheels/tires, hydraulic body roll control, electronically adjustable suspension, locking rear differential, crawl control, surround view cameras and roof rails.
Swapping a V8 for a twin-turbo V6 generally means similar power and better fuel economy, but in the case of the GX it means more power and more efficiency. The previous GX felt underpowered and lethargic with it's standard V8. The new twin-turbo V6 in the 2024 GX provides a welcome infusion of power and breathes some life into the 5,500-pound GX. Zero to 60 MPH time drops more than a second to a very respectable 6.8 seconds. In addition, there's plenty of power for passing and merging. The engine is smooth and responds quickly to throttle input.
The 10-speed automatic transmission generally goes unnoticed, however, there are times when drivers can catch the transmission between gear shifts and then there's a noticeable pause in power delivery.
GX comes with an off-road-ready four-wheel drive system. There are also 11 drive modes that include all sorts of on- and off-road presets. Each is designed to make the most of the GX's capabilities, regardless of driving environment. Those wishing to have the most off-road capable GX will want to opt for Overtrail or Overtail+ trims.
The GX is EPA rated at 15 MPG city and 21 MPG highway. Believe it or not, those numbers are on par or better than others in the class. Like all competitors, the GX requires premium-grade gasoline. Though EPA fuel economy numbers don't change much with the switch to a V6, real-world economy has, at least the chance, to be better. Because the V6 has considerably less engine displacement, if you drive with a light throttle foot, you will see greatly improved fuel economy over the outgoing V8. Netting perhaps as high 20 MPG overall in routine driving.
Dynamically, the 2024 GX is worlds better than the model it replaces. While the old GX wobbled and wandered all over the road, the new GX is buttoned down and much more streetable. There's still a fair amount of body roll, but the suspension does an admirable job of preventing the GX from feeling overly sloppy. What the GX does offer is a very comfortable ride and serene highway cruising.
The steering feels slow when compared to modern crossovers, but that's a necessity when considering off-road capability. Assist levels are good and highway tracking true. Brakes have ample stopping power and an easy-to-modulate pedal.
Interior noise levels are very Lexus like, meaning low. Though there's more road and engine noise than in a comparably sized Lexus RX, the GX is noticeably quieter than its competition.
Though definitely upscale, the Lexus GX interior doesn't feel as posh or polished as some competitors in the class. Materials are just so-so, and the assembly quality lacks the attention to detail you might find in a Grand Cherokee or Defender. This comes through in uneven panel gaps and a bit more hard plastic than you'd expect.
From a design perspective, the layout is very functional. There's a large digital instrument cluster and an even larger touchscreen for the infotainment system. There are a few traditional controls throughout for basic vehicle operation, but for the most part, advanced vehicle functions are handled through somewhat confusing infotainment screen.
The front seats are well padded and offer occupants plenty of head and leg room. Second-row seats are nicely upholstered as well, but there's less room than you'd think for a vehicle of this size. Third-row seats are for children only. Outward visibility is excellent and large outside mirrors help reduce blind spots. The daunting step-in makes getting in and out a chore. It should be noted that running boards and grab handles are provided.
From a technological perspective GX has all of the traditional safety features you'd expect and the infotainment system can be somewhat configured for different drivers -- provided you take the time to set up accounts. Android Auto and Apple Car Play support are standard. A nice feature is an available "cool box" in the center console.
Three-row versions get a disappointing 10.3 cubic feet of cargo space in back. Folding the third row opens up 40 cubic feet, about the same as in two-row versions. Folding all seats opens up 76 cubic feet, which is appropriate for the class. The hatch opening is large and there's a separate flip-up rear glass, making it convenient to load in small items. Interior storage is good, with several open and covered bins throughout. One note, the rear seats don't fold completely flat and create an uneven load floor.
Bottom Line -- The new GX is significantly improved over the model it replaces in just about every detail. It remains as off-road capable while adding a huge dollop of on-road refinement. Like any vehicle in this class, value is determined not on the sum of the parts, but on the vehicle as a while. In that measurement, the GX is a reasonable choice. It might lack the panache of the Land Rover or the luxury found in top-trim Grand Cherokee models, but it succeeds in blending refinement, luxury and technology into a cohesive package.
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