What Makes the Redesigned Lexus GX Superior
Lexus has long been associated with reliability, durability, and luxury. Lexus has also earned acclaim for crafting robust and capable off-road SUVs, presenting Toyota’s signature reliability in a refined and sophisticated package.
The latest addition to Lexus’s off-road lineup is the 2024 Lexus GX 550, a vehicle that showcases a complete redesign, leaving no component untouched from the oil pan to the roof panel. Although it doesn’t rewrite the rulebook for midsize body-on-frame SUVs, the new GX sets itself apart by seamlessly blending off-road prowess with exceptional on-road handling, making it a standout in its segment and arguably one of the brand’s finest offerings to date.
The transformation begins with the adoption of the more capable and refined TNGA-F platform, shared with the larger Land Cruiser 300 and its Lexus LX counterpart, along with other recently released body-on-frame Toyota models. The new GX is not only lighter but also boasts a 20% increase in rigidity compared to its predecessor, featuring a lengthened wheelbase by 2.36 inches and an overall length increase of 2.75 inches.
Moving to this modern platform promises a distinct driving experience, departing from the decade-old GX 460. The TNGA-F platform, proven in vehicles like the Sequoia, enhances both on- and off-road capabilities, aligning with the expectations for the new GX.
Under the hood, the GX 550 undergoes a ground-up redesign. Departing from the dated 4.6-liter V-8, the new model is equipped with a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V-6, delivering a robust 349 horsepower and a substantial torque increase to 479 pound-feet—a notable improvement of 48 horsepower and 150 pound-feet over its predecessor. The transition to a more efficient 10-speed transmission replaces the old GX 460’s six-speed gearbox.
Despite downsizing, the new GX 550 achieves an EPA-rated fuel economy of 15/21/17 MPG on the city/highway/combined cycles, outperforming the older GX 460, which is rated at 15/19/16 MPG. For those prioritizing efficiency, an upcoming hybrid model is anticipated, likely featuring the i-Force Max 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder parallel hybrid system.
The all-new LExus GX is set to start arriving this spring – click here to pre-order yours.
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