Lexus recently unveiled an all-new version of its GX SUV that keeps its off-road abilities but adds new comfort and technology.
The Lexus GX continues to impress us. It’s always been a luxurious 3-row SUV with legitimate off-road abilities — a luxurious if a bit dated body-on-frame utility vehicle that can go toe-to-toe on terra firma with various Land Rover models.
At the premier of the all-new 2024 GX, we were delighted to learn that Lexus has kept the SUV’s mission intact while infusing it with a healthy dose of modern comfort and technology.
How much will the 2024 Lexus GX cost?
Lexus hasn’t revealed pricing on the 2024 Lexus GX (built in Japan and arriving in early 2024). But the 2023 model it replaces starts at $57,575 and extends to $68,230 for the top Luxury trim.
That considered, we expect the all-new and significantly better 2024 Lexus GX – which will be available in Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+, Overtrail, and Overtrail+ trim levels – to have starting prices that range from about $60,000 to $75,000.
Also see: Check out the all-new, roomy Lexus TX 3-row SUV
Stronger chassis
A strong but lightweight ladder frame, a version of the GA-F platform used by the current Lexus LX 600, supports the new LX chassis. It features double wishbones in front and a well-controlled live axle in the back, replete with multiple links and coil springs. Electric-assist power steering is standard, and adaptive suspension, Lexus’s Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVP), will be available. That feature automatically changes the suspension damping based on changing road conditions.
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More powerful engine
When the new 2024 Lexus GX goes on sale in early 2024, it will be powered by a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6. The engine sends 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission. That’s stronger than the previous V8, and the maximum tow capacity with the standard tow hitch is a respectable 8,000 pounds.
Later in 2024, we expect to see a hybrid version of the new Lexus GX. It will undoubtedly have more power and better fuel economy than the standard GX. Lexus expects it to have an EPA combined fuel economy rating of 17 mpg.
Also see: The all-new 2023 Lexus RZ luxury electric SUV—range, charging and more
Bold exterior
Lexus says the new 2024 GX exudes a tough and rugged persona and that its designers were intent on expressing the off-road functionality of a true body-on-frame SUV. Do you think they’ve succeeded?
We do. The new GX looks tougher and more aggressive, owing to its blunt nose, upright and squared-off body profile, bold fender flares, and strong horizontal elements. Overhangs are short, helping the approach and departure angles. LED headlamps and grille sit high to keep them out of harm’s way when off-roading.
The overall length has been increased by 2.8 inches. It’s also 3.7 inches wider than before, with a wheelbase up by 2.4 inches. The beltline is lower than that of the previous GX, and the A-pillars have been moved rearward for a better forward view, which is appreciated off-road.
Also notable: The all-new 2024 Lexus GX comes with a standard power liftgate featuring a popout window and an available kick sensor for hands-free operation. GX fans might lament the demise of the swing-out tailgate on the previous model.
Available exterior colors include Eminent White Pearl, Nebula Gray Pearl, Atomic Silver, Incognito, Caviar, Nori Green Pearl, and Nightfall Mica.
Sophisticated interior
Significant strides have also been made inside the GX, where this Lexus is highlighted by a lower digital instrument panel and horizontal dash, which conspire to improve the forward view. The standard multimedia touchscreen measures a substantial 14 inches on the diagonal, and we’re ecstatic to report that physical dials for frequently used controls like the air conditioning and audio volume remain.
Wireless Apple
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CarPlay/Android Auto is standard, along with six illuminated charging ports, 12 cupholders, a 120V AC inverter, and a 10-speaker Mark Levinson sound system. The available options on the new GX include a head-up display, a Cool Box, a tonneau cover, and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound audio system.
There’s seating for up to seven in the new GX. It comes in a 2-3-2 seating configuration with a split-folding 60/40 center bench. Buyers can also choose a 2-2-2 arrangement with center-row captain’s chairs.
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Another positive: Front legroom has increased by more than an inch. Access to the third row comes from a one-motion tumble system for the GX’s second row. Second-row seat heaters are an option. The third row, which we expect to be more spacious than before, offers manual or power controls.
As for the new GX’s power front seats, they are heated and ventilated. Semi-aniline leather is used in the top models, leaving synthetic NuLuxe upholstery for the lesser trims. Available upholstery colors include Black, Dapple Gray, and Saddle Tan.
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Rugged new Overtrail model
To further underscore the GX’s already solid off-road reputation, Lexus offers a new Overtrail model. Riding on 33-inch all-terrain tires and 18-inch wheels, the new Lexus GX Overtrail makes its presence known with two-tone exterior paint in colors intended to blend in with nature. Overtrail models come in two-tone color schemes like Atomic Silver and Nori Green Pearl set off by a black roof.
Natural earth tones are used in the GX Overtrail, the trim’s color palette complemented by Olive Ultrasuede accents. An additional model called the Overtrail+ goes one step further. It adds massaging seats that offer better off-road comfort and even a power cushion extender.
Thankfully, the Overtrail is far from just a visual package. It includes an electronic locking rear differential, an aluminum skid plate, black-accented fender flares, and those bigger tires. Buyers can order it with every off-road extra available on the new GX. This includes Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control, Downhill Assist Control, a 3D Multi-Terrain Monitor, and the Electro-Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System for greater wheel articulation.
New safety
As a totally new vehicle, the 2024 GX comes equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0. This latest comprehensive safety suite includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking. You also get dynamic radar cruise control, a lane-departure warning, and Proactive Driving Assist. If necessary, PDA gently applies the brakes for upcoming curves on the highway.
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This story originally ran on KBB.com.
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