2024 Lexus GX premium off-roader comes with more potent V6 engine

It took a while but Lexus has finally unveiled an all-new model of the GX, which is now in its third-gen iteration (codenamed GX 550) underpinned by the GA-F platform.

All-new Lexus GX

The outgoing Lexus GX J150 had a 14-year run in the Japanese luxury automaker’s lineup, contributing to the full-size SUV’s cumulative sales of approximately 540,000 units by the end of March 2023. Since the GX is essentially the same as the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, this could be our preview of the latter’s next-gen model.

But before that, let’s check out what the 2024 Lexus GX 550 can bring to the market.

Exterior

Based on what’s called a “Premium Off-Roader” theme, the new boxy-looking Lexus GX has an apparent beefy and rugged SUV styling, along with design cues that add luxury to the touch. The brand’s signature spindle grille has been reimagined, which now appears more subtle due to the enlarger lower bumper.

A rugged yet classy SUV

Lexus is offering the GX with the Overtrail variant, which provides off-road-focused bits to the SUV. One of these is the massive 33-inch all-terrain tires, the largest standard tires ever fitted in a Lexus. Off-roading adventures should be more convenient with the addition of a powered tailgate function available with a kick sensor, which replaces the swinging fifth door of the previous model that opens from the side.

Interior

The automaker still decided to go for a straightforward-looking cabin but does look way more modern. Coming with a driver-focused cockpit, the SUV is capable of seating up to seven passengers, with the second row made available with an option for two captain’s chairs.

Interior of the Lexus GX

Lexus said the interior storage space has been increased in the center console and door pockets. Passengers get to benefit from up to 12 cup holders and a cargo room capable of hauling up to five suitcases with the third-row seats folded down.

Tech & Safety

Mounted on the center console is a 14-inch infotainment screen with the Lexus Interface technology. It is complemented by a wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as a 12.3-inch digital multi-information display (MID) and a head-up display (HUD). As an option, the central screen can be paired with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson Surround Sound.

It comes out as the GX 550

Moving to safety, the GX 550 is equipped with the standard Lexus Safety Sense+ 3.0, providing functions such as all-speed dynamic radar cruise control (DRCC), lane tracing assist (LTA), pre-collision system (PCS), proactive driving assist (PDA), and road sign assist (RSA), among others.

Engine

Under the hood, the 4.6-liter V8 engine wasn’t carried over to the latest iteration. But the new GX boasts a more powerful 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine good for 349 horsepower and 649 Nm of torque. It sends power to all four wheels (4WD) via a 10-speed direct shift automatic gearbox. Soon, the SUV will get a taste of hybridization as it will be offered with a 2.4-liter inline-4 turbo hybrid engine.

The V8 engine didn't make the engine option list

The off-road performance has been improved with the use of features such as an electric power steering system (EPS), brake control technology, a traditional rigid rear suspension, and the brand’s first E-KDSS, which is said to provide “exceptional compatibility between off-road and on-road driving.”

Lexus said the all-new GX will be released to different regions by the end of this year. As of this writing, Lexus Philippines hasn’t confirmed whether the local market will receive the new model. But since the nameplate is available locally, one can hope Filipino buyers can get their hands on the GX 550.

Don’t miss the latest car releases at Philkotse.com.