In previous years, the Lexus GX was positioned as the softer alternative to the Land Cruiser—an honor reserved for the Lexus LX. The GX was primarily crafted as a more luxurious iteration of the Toyota 4Runner, perfect for cruising through shopping malls or making the annual pilgrimage to the ski lodge.

Claiming New Territory

However, as we navigate the ever-evolving automotive landscape, it becomes evident that the Lexus GX550 is no longer content to simply play the role of the luxury sidekick. In an era where many automakers are ambitiously transforming their unibody crossovers into capable off-road contenders, the GX550 boldly steps forward. It’s the SUV that Lexus enthusiasts have long awaited, poised to reclaim its rightful place on the overlanding map—even if the most adventurous journey involves searching for the perfect picnic spot.

Effortless Performance

The Lexus GX550 presents itself in a trio of variants, each boasting an upgraded ‘+’ option. Beginning with the entry-level Premium, which starts at a respectable $64,250, this model is factory-equipped with all the essentials: full-time four-wheel drive, an array of off-road technology, and a robust twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine that churns out an impressive 349 horsepower and 479 lbs-ft of torque, seamlessly paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Sharing its underpinnings with the Toyota Land Cruiser, the GX550’s enhanced performance begins to eclipse its sibling. The twin-turbo V6 endows the GX with an enviable confidence and effortless mobility—a quality that often eluded the Land Cruiser. Surprisingly, despite its heftier frame, the GX navigates the roads with an air of ease and a commanding presence.

LIKES: effortless performance, truck-like drivability, comfortable interior setting, plenty of off-road gadgetry

Handling feels surprisingly nimble, offering quick responses and commendable feedback. When faced with rough pavement, it glides over imperfections as if they were mere whispers of the road. Off the beaten path, the GX maintains its poise, even with the substantial 22-inch wheels.

Our top-tier Luxury+ model, priced at $81,250, may not scream “off-road warrior”—especially given its stock wheels—but it is nonetheless equipped for adventure. With features like a locking differential, a capable transfer case, and an off-road terrain select system, it’s prepared to tackle challenges, provided those challenges don’t involve excessive aggression that could endanger its precious rims.

For those with a more adventurous spirit, the Overtrail model might be the ideal choice for your Overland escapades. It’s outfitted with 18-inch wheels wrapped in substantial 33-inch tires, an adaptive damping suspension system, a multi-terrain monitor with crawl control, downhill assist, and the innovative Electronic Kinetic Dynamic. In short, it’s ready to tackle the wild, as long as you don’t mind sacrificing a touch of elegance for rugged capability.

A Lexus-Typical Interior

If you’re familiar with the Lexus brand, you’ll instantly recognize the comforting embrace of its interior. The cabin is a sanctuary of sumptuous leather, soft-touch materials, and a judiciously restrained application of metallic accents. The front seats offer exceptional comfort, creating an inviting driving position, while the rear seats maintain that same level of indulgence. However, the third row? Good luck persuading anyone to occupy that space. And if they do muster the courage, be prepared to say goodbye to any semblance of trunk space—seriously, you might as well keep those seats flat in the floor.

True to Lexus modern traditions, the GX550 is equipped with enough screens to orchestrate a SpaceX rocket launch. It boasts a 12.3-inch semi-customizable digital instrument cluster, a generously sized, crystal clear 14-inch infotainment system that’s a breeze to navigate, and an optional 10.3-inch heads-up display.

DISLIKES: As expected poor fuel economy, no trunk space with 3^rd row seating up

The GX excels in outward visibility, offering an impressive perspective on the road. Its hood design features a broad trough, allowing for a clear view ahead and making it easy to assess the vehicle’s forward limits. Furthermore, the glass dips down at the cowl, enhancing the side view and broadening your awareness of the surrounding environment. The result is a commanding vantage point that ensures you’re always in tune with your surroundings.

The Lexus GX550 truly redefines the boundaries of luxury in the realm of off-road vehicles. It boasts an impressive Mark Levinson sound system, indulgent massaging seats, and a full glass sky roof with frosted switch-glass, all while delivering confident performance and reassuring off-road capabilities when the pavement disappears. What one might have expected from the Toyota Land Cruiser is elegantly surpassed by the GX550, making it a standout choice for those who refuse to compromise on comfort or capability.