When driving on a busy highway during a sudden thunderstorm, there are few places you can feel more at ease than the cabin of the 2024 Lexus GX 550.
On my way back from hiking in the mountains, the sky suddenly turned dark. Soon a sheet of water ran across the windshield, reducing visibility. Faster than my reflexes can react, the big, beefy GX’s sensors monitor my surroundings and notify the computer that the vehicle is slowing down and I’m coming from behind an 18-wheeler who’s braked. We kept a safe distance.
My average fuel economy for the week was 16mpg, so if you’re looking for good fuel economy, you’ll probably want the GX. It stands out in the luxury SUV segment and particularly appeals to families and outdoor enthusiasts who value comfort and functionality. Its rugged design and premium features strike a balance between being a daily driver and an off-road warrior.
Ideal for buyers who prioritize reliability, luxury, and versatility, it’s a great choice for those who enjoy city driving or weekend adventures. The spacious interior and advanced technology will appeal to families looking for a safe and comfortable ride.
Americans adore big, beefy SUVs, and the GX competes in a crowded field. Even when placed next to competitors such as the Toyota Land Cruiser, Land Rover Defender, Jeep Grand Cherokee, BMW X5, Audi Q7, Mercedes-Benz GLE 550, and Volvo XC90, the GX 550 stands out in terms of comfort, cabin comfort, and features. . It runs towards the back of the pack when it comes to fuel economy. Prices and EPA estimated fuel economy are as follows:
Lexus GX 550: Starting at about $60,000. Fuel economy is 17 MPG city/22 MPG highway.
Land Rover Defender: From $54,000. Fuel economy is 18 MPG city/22 MPG highway.
Jeep Grand Cherokee: Starting at about $40,000. Fuel economy is rated at 19 MPG city/26 MPG highway.
BMW X5: Starting at $65,000. Fuel economy is 21 MPG city/26 MPG highway.
Audi Q7: Starting at about $56,000. Fuel economy is 19 MPG city/25 MPG highway.
Mercedes-Benz GLE 550: Starting at $77,000. Fuel economy is 19 MPG city/24 MPG highway.
Volvo XC90: Starting at about $50,000. Fuel economy is 21 MPG city/30 MPG highway.
The Lexus GX is similar to the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser and costs a few thousand dollars less.
Powertrain and off-road capabilities
The 2024 Lexus GX 550 is designed to provide both rugged on-road performance and outstanding off-road performance.
The 4.6-liter V8 engine produces 383 horsepower and 403 pound-feet of torque. This engine is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth shifting. The V8 engine provides strong acceleration, making it suitable for highway merging and towing, and essential for anyone planning to tow a trailer or boat.
The GX 550 has several features that improve its off-road performance. Important aspects are:
Full-time four-wheel drive (4WD): The GX 550 features a full-time 4WD system that ensures optimal traction on a variety of road surfaces. It automatically distributes power between the front and rear wheels for increased stability and control.
Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS): One of the standout features of the GX 550’s off-road capabilities is the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System. The system allows real-time adjustment of the vehicle’s suspension, resulting in better wheel articulation and stability on uneven terrain. Helps maintain tire-to-ground contact, essential for off-road adventures.
MULTI-TERRAIN SELECT: The GX 550 includes a Multi-Terrain Select system that allows the driver to choose from a variety of driving modes tailored to specific conditions such as mud, sand, and rocks. This feature optimizes traction and stability by adjusting throttle response and traction control settings.
Crawl Control: The crawl control system is another important feature for off-road driving. It automatically adjusts the throttle and brakes while driving over rugged or difficult terrain, allowing drivers to focus on steering rather than managing power.
Approach and Departure Angle: The GX 550 has superior approach and departure angles that enhance your ability to navigate steep uphill and downhill slopes without damaging your vehicle. This feature is essential for tackling rough trails and obstacles.
Key hardware components support these features. These include a robust chassis; The frame is built to withstand the stress of off-road driving, providing durability and strength. An advanced suspension system is bolted to it. The combination of KDSS and solid rear axle provides excellent handling and stability on rough terrain.
The GX is equipped with all-terrain tires designed for off-road performance, providing superior grip and durability on a variety of surfaces. All of this, plus a rugged powertrain, provides an impressive towing capacity of up to 9,096 pounds, making it perfect for anyone who needs to tow a trailer or boat.
cabin comfort
Riding the GX 550 feels like you’re driving down the highway in your well-appointed living room. The cabin shines with high-quality materials and thoughtful design. Leather upholstery, wood accents, and a user-friendly infotainment system create an inviting atmosphere. The spacious cabin can comfortably seat up to seven passengers, making it a big draw for families. As Car and Driver noted, “The GX’s interior feels like a retreat, with plush seats and a quiet ride.”
The Lexus GX 550 can accommodate up to seven passengers, with a thoughtful layout that puts comfort first. The front seats are spacious and ergonomically designed with multi-way power adjustment, heating and ventilation options. The second row offers ample legroom and is available in a bench configuration or as captain’s chairs, depending on trim level. The third row is a bit tight, but still usable for adults traveling short distances.
Lexus is known for its high-quality materials. The GX 550 is no exception. The cabin features luxurious leather upholstery, soft-touch surfaces, and rich wood and metal accents for a luxurious feel. Attention to detail is evident in the stitching and overall finish, resulting in an attractive and luxurious interior. Noise-reducing materials are strategically placed throughout the cabin to enhance the driving experience.
The GX 550’s technology is intuitive and advanced. The highlight is an extensive touchscreen infotainment system that integrates navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system is quickly responsive and has a user-friendly interface, giving drivers easy access to a variety of functions. A premium audio system is also included as standard, providing an immersive listening experience.
There’s plenty of driver-assistance technology, with features like adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a surround-view camera system designed to improve safety and convenience. This system provides real-time feedback and notifications, making driving safer and more enjoyable.
Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) management is a strength of the GX 550. Lexus employed multiple layers of insulation and sound deadening materials to minimize road noise and vibrations entering the cabin. This provides a quiet ride even on rough terrain, allowing passengers to comfortably talk or enjoy the audio system without distraction.
The GX 550 offers robust cargo capacity with up to 64.7 cubic feet of storage space when the rear seats are folded. It’s competitive in its class, with plenty of space for luggage, sports equipment, and other large items. With the third row raised, cargo space is a bit limited, but it’s still practical enough for everyday use.
Comparison with rivals:
Toyota Land Cruiser: Offers similar passenger capacity but slightly less cargo space, especially when all seats are used.
Land Rover Defender: Offers flexible seating configurations, but can be more expensive for similar features and comfort.
Jeep Grand Cherokee: Offers more cargo space with the seats up, but may not match the GX 550 in luxury finishes.
BMW X5 and Audi Q7: Both have high-quality interiors and advanced technology, but they may feel sportier at the expense of the GX’s off-road ability.
Mercedes-Benz GLE: Known for its luxurious interior, but may not have the same level of ruggedness or off-road capability as the GX 550.
Volvo XC90: It has a modern interior and advanced safety features, but it may not match the GX’s rugged off-road performance.
reliable
The GX 550 has a reputation for reliability, with many owners reporting minimal maintenance issues. Lexus vehicles are known for their durability, and the GX is no exception. Depreciation costs are modest compared to some competitors, making it a wise investment.
Lexus offers a comprehensive package that includes a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.
conclusion
The 2024 Lexus GX 550 is an attractive choice for those looking for a luxury SUV that doesn’t sacrifice performance or comfort. It may not be the best in terms of fuel efficiency, but its reliability, off-road capability, and premium features make it a worthy contender in a crowded market. Whether navigating city streets or tackling rugged terrain, the GX 550 is a versatile and stylish option for discerning drivers.
