- Lexus introduced a new version of the GX mid-size SUV for 2024, and it looks quite different.
- At launch there is a GX550 model with a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V-6 engine with 349 hp and 479 pound-feet of torque. Hybrids will come later.
- There’s also an off-road-oriented Overtrail trim with 33-inch tires and a locking rear differential.
The Lexus GX mid-size SUV, already a favorite among off-road and off-road enthusiasts, enters 2024 looking like the Lexus version of the Mercedes G-wagen. The rugged new look emphasizes its tough body-on-frame construction, sophisticated four-wheel-drive system and Land Cruiser roots, and the new 2024 GX550 will even offer a special new off-road trim level called Overtrail.
Built on the same platform as the larger Lexus LX, the new GX is significantly larger than the old one. In fact, it’s only a few inches smaller than the LX in most dimensions and has the same wheelbase, making us wonder why Lexus still plans to offer both models in the U.S. Most versions of the GX come standard with a third row of seats offering for six or seven, although the Overtrail is only available as a two-row five-seater for now. The side-opening tailgate is gone, replaced by a conventional power liftgate with a glass section that opens separately. The third row is available with a power folding function.
Low-range four-wheel drive is standard across the board, as is a center-locking differential. The standard powertrain in the GX550 is a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 engine and a 10-speed automatic. This is the same engine found in the Toyota Tundra, Toyota Sequoia, and Lexus LX600, and in the GX550 it produces 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. Lexus claims a combined fuel economy rating of 17 mpg, a slight improvement over the old V-8 GX460’s 16 mpg combined. Lexus says that a hybrid will come later, and we expect this setup to have the same configuration as the Tundra and iForce Max Sequoia, with more horsepower from the electric motor and slightly improved fuel economy.
The GX suspension features the same setup as the LX, with independent front suspension and a solid rear axle. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) feature that can disconnect the front and rear anti-roll bars continues, but it is now done electronically. Adaptive dampers are standard. Upgrades for the Overtrail include a rear locking differential, 33-inch all-terrain tires with 18-inch wheels and skid plates.
Inside, the new GX’s dashboard looks much more modern than before—no surprise considering the previous GX has been around for over a decade. A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and 14.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system dominate the driver’s view, and the touchscreen runs Lexus’ latest infotainment system with enhanced voice commands. A combination of two physical knobs and touch-sensitive buttons control the HVAC system, and there are switches and buttons on the center console near the shifter for the four-wheel drive system, drive mode and differential lock.
The lineup starts with Premium and Premium+ grades, and Luxury and Luxury+ models will likely add more equipment (Lexus hasn’t yet detailed available features by trim). These will be offered with either second row benches or captain’s chairs. The Overtrail adds off-road upgrades and comes with other visual tweaks, while the Overtrail+ will come with additional features to match the Luxury trim. The Premium and Overtrail models offer 8000 pounds of towing capacity, while the Luxury trim can tow 6990 pounds and the Luxury+ can tow 6780 pounds.
11 exterior colors will be offered, and the Overtrail will be available in certain two-tone combinations with an Earth-like black roof and the black combination pictured above. The interior comes standard with faux leather and will be available with semi-aniline leather on higher trims, while the Overtrail has attractive green suede accents on the seats.
We haven’t heard anything about pricing, but we expect the 2024 GX to increase a fair amount over the old model’s $59,275–$69,930 price range. It will be built in Japan and is scheduled to start arriving at US dealerships in early 2024.
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Senior Editor
Despite growing up on a steady diet of Honda and Toyota base models—or maybe because of it—Joey Capparella cultivated an obsession for the automotive industry throughout his childhood in Nashville, Tennessee. He found a way to write about cars for the school newspaper during his college years at Rice University, which eventually led him to move to Ann Arbor, Michigan, for his first professional auto-writing gig at Automobile Magazine. He has been a part of Car and Driver team since 2016 and currently resides in New York City.