Lexus GX 550 Named SUV of Texas at TAWA’s Texas Truck Rodeo

The all-new, third-generation Lexus GX 550 has been crowned SUV of Texas by the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) at the 31st annual Texas Truck Rodeo. This prestigious award highlights the GX 550’s exceptional blend of off-road capability and refined luxury, making it a standout choice for adventure-seekers and luxury SUV enthusiasts alike.

“The GX 550 is a testament to the perfect blend of off-road capability and sophisticated luxury,” said Cynthia Tenhouse, Vice President of Lexus Marketing. “Its six available grades provide durability and reliability for everyday life while inspiring drivers to take their next adventure on and off the trail.”

At the event, the Lexus GX 550 also secured the title of Midsize SUV of Texas, reinforcing its status as a leader in its segment. The Toyota Tacoma took home the event’s other top honor, Truck of Texas, along with the title of Midsize Truck of Texas. Additional awards recognized Toyota’s cutting-edge technology, with Toyota’s Wireless Trailer Camera winning Best Towing Technology, and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0/Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 earning Best Driver Assist or Safety Feature.

The much-anticipated 2024 Lexus GX 550 delivers rugged performance, sophisticated design, and advanced technology. It features a twin-turbocharged 3.4L V6 engine paired with a 10-speed Direct Shift Automatic Transmission, offering 349 horsepower and 479 lb.-ft. of torque—a significant improvement over the previous V8 model. With Full-Time 4WD standard across all trims and the introduction of the Overtrail and Overtrail+ grades, the GX is built to conquer both urban streets and untamed trails. The Overtrail models further enhance the off-road experience with 33-inch All-Terrain tires and 18-inch wheels.

TAWA’s Texas Truck Rodeo is an annual gathering where journalists evaluate the latest trucks and SUVs in real-world conditions, including off-road courses and street drives. Hosted at Eagles Canyon Raceway in Decatur, Texas, the event assesses vehicles based on interior quality, exterior design, performance, value, and overall appeal.

“The SUV of Texas award is prestigious and highly competitive, and the Lexus GX was a huge hit at the Truck Rodeo,” said TAWA President Cory Fourniquet. “It impressed our members with its luxury, technology, and off-road capability.”

With its combination of power, versatility, and premium features, the 2024 Lexus GX 550 continues to set a new standard for luxury adventure SUVs.