The 2024 Lexus GX 550 introduces a completely redesigned model, replacing the outgoing GX 460. In doing so, the GX transitions from a V8 engine to a modern twin-turbo V6. Somewhat more compact than its predecessor, the GX 550 retains its legendary off-road capabilities while embracing a refined design and advanced engineering. Despite its rugged potential, this luxury SUV is just as likely to be seen navigating city streets, where its blend of sophistication and toughness positions it as a standout in its class.
Pricing and Trim Overview
The Lexus GX 550 is available in six distinct trims and comes with standard four-wheel drive. Seating is for five, six, or seven, depending on how it is configured.
Premium: Starting at $64,250, this base model includes standard four-wheel drive, a moonroof, 20-inch wheels, a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment display, and a 10-speaker audio system. It accommodates up to seven passengers with its three-row seating configuration.
Premium+: Priced from $69,250, this trim adds features such as parking assist, a power-folding third-row seat, wireless phone charging, heated second-row outboard seats, ambient lighting, and a power-adjustable steering wheel.
Luxury: This trim costs $77,250 and enhances the vehicle with 22-inch wheels, front massaging seats, mirror puddle lamps, second-row sunshades, and a semi-aniline leather-trimmed interior.
Luxury+: Building upon the Luxury trim, this one includes adaptive dampers, a panoramic sunroof, power-extending running boards, a Mark Levinson audio system, a digital rearview mirror, and a cool box. You will pay from $81,250 to acquire one.
Overtrail: Designed for off-road enthusiasts, this model features an Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, a locking rear differential, 18-inch wheels with 33-inch all-terrain tires, and various terrain-specific drive modes. This trim starts at $69,250.
Overtrail+: Combining off-road capabilities with luxury amenities, it mirrors the Overtrail’s features while incorporating additional comforts from the Luxury trim. Priced from $77,250.
The prices listed cover the $1,350 delivery, processing, and handling fee.
Exterior Highlights
The GX 550 showcases a bold, squared-off design, emphasizing its off-road prowess. Its muscular appearance offers an important reminder that traditional SUVs are not easily confused with crossovers.
Standard features include Triple-Beam LED headlamps and a distinctive front fascia. The Overtrail models stand out with 18-inch wheels fitted with 33-inch all-terrain tires, optimizing approach and breakover angles for enhanced off-road performance.
Interior Highlights
Inside, the GX 550 offers a spacious and luxurious cabin. Depending on the trim, seating configurations accommodate up to seven passengers. Options include second-row captain’s chairs. High-quality materials, such as semi-aniline leather, adorn the interior, and amenities like heated and ventilated front seats with available massage functions enhance comfort. A 14-inch touchscreen display provides access to the Lexus Interface, ensuring connectivity and convenience.
In our opinion, the GX is ideal for five The third-row seats, while acceptable for some, are best reserved for youngsters. Folding down the rear seat generously expands the cargo space.
Safety Features
Equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, the GX 550 includes advanced safety technologies:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Proactive Driving Assist
- Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Tracing Assist
All features are part of the Lexus Safety System 3.0+, which comes standard on every model.
Technology Highlights
The GX 550 integrates modern technology to elevate the user experience. The Lexus Interface, accessible via a 14-inch multimedia touchscreen, offers intuitive control over navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. It offers a hands-free experience with “Hey Lexus” commands at the ready.
Available features include a Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound system, wireless charging, and multiple USB-C ports. All models come with wireless smartphone connectivity.
Drive Experience
Powered by a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 engine delivering 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, the GX 550 provides robust performance across various terrains. On solid pavement, the GX moves with authority with the turbos spooling quickly and cleanly.
The 10-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth gear transitions, while the full-time four-wheel-drive system offers confidence in diverse driving conditions. Those diverse conditions include off-road experiences most Lexus owners probably won’t take, but might consider once they realize what they have. We believe, though, that the Overtrail models a the best choice here as they are designed to navigate the toughest trails.
Off-road capabilities are enhanced by features like the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and Multi-Terrain Select, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s response accordingly. We were not able to take the GX to our favorite off-road haunts – they are closed during the off-season – but did navigate difficult terrain nearby. It became quite obvious right away that this Lexus is tied closely to such venerable Toyota models as the Tundra, Tacoma, and Land Cruiser, but with its luxury take offering an important distinction.
Luxury Competitors
In the luxury SUV market, the GX 550 competes with models such as the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, BMW X5, Audi Q7, and Land Rover Discovery. This quartet is long established in a niche segment and should be cross shopped with the Lexus.
Lexus GX 550 Parting Thoughts
The 2024 Lexus GX 550 offers a seamless blend of luxury, cutting-edge tech, and impressive off-road performance. With its range of trim options, it’s designed to suit a variety of tastes, making it a standout choice for anyone looking for a capable yet sophisticated SUV.
Shoppers should keep in mind that the GX is NOT an efficient vehicle. We averaged approximately 15 mpg throughout our week with this vehicle. Surprisingly, Lexus is not offering a hybrid version, which would boost fuel efficiency, although probably modestly.
2024 Lexus GX 550 Specifications
| Lexus | 2024 GX 550 |
|---|---|
| Overall Length (in.) | 197.05 |
| Width (in.) | 78.74 |
| Height (in.) | 76.18 |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 112.20 |
| Front Tread (in.) | 66.42 |
| Rear Tread (in.) | 66.46 |
| Head Room – Front (in.) | 41.71 |
| Head Room – 2nd Row (in.) | 43.15 |
| Head Room – 3rd Row (in.) | 35.45 |
| Leg Room – Front (in.) | 41.18 |
| Leg Room – 2nd Row (in.) | 36.73 |
| Leg Room – 3rd Row (in.) | 31.89 |
| Shoulder Room – Front (in.) | 59.51 |
| Shoulder Room – 2nd Row (in.) | 57.17 |
| Shoulder Room – 3rd Row (in.) | 54.76 |
| Hip Room – Front (in.) | 56.46 |
| Hip Room – 2nd Row (in.) | 56.39 |
| Hip Room – 3rd Row (in.) | 45.30 |
| Ground Clearance (in.) | 8.86 |
| Approach Angle (degrees) | 26 |
| Departure Angle (degrees) | 23 |
| Breakover Angle (degrees) | 24 |
| Wading Depth (in.) | 27.56 |
| Wheel Articulation (in.) | 24.45 |
| Cargo Capacity – All Seats Up (cu. ft.) | 45.6 |
| Max Cargo Capacity (cu. ft.) | 90.5 |
| Towing Capacity (lbs.) | 9,096 |
| Engine Type | 3.4-Liter V6 Twin Turbo |
| Horsepower (hp @ rpm) | 349 @ 4,800-5,200 |
| Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm) | 479 @ 2,000-3,600 |
| Fuel Economy (MPG – Combined/Highway/City) | 17 / 21 / 15 |
See Also — We Drove the New Lexus TX
Images copyright Lexus.
