Peter Lyon
June 24, 2023
With its totally redefined beefy, bold, edgy exterior, the new Lexus GX looks ready for product placement in the next Fast and Furious movie—as a chase car for the super-nasty of course.
Redesigned from the ground up, the all-new GX replaces the current model, which dates all the way back to 2010. The new model looks considerably more chiseled and rugged than its predecessor and also boasts a lot more of the latest tech. Early 2024 will see the release of the new SUV, and prices have not yet been announced.
The new GX sits on the body-on-frame GA-F platform that also underpins the LX600. It features a double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link setup at the rear as well as electronic power steering, which Lexus claims offers better steering feel on- and off-road. An Adaptive Variable Suspension with active dampers is an option. Nothing about the new GX resembles the old one.
Its new heavy-duty off-roader body is angular and boasts numerous hard edges and creases. In fact, it looks so different from its predecessor, so much more macho than the previous GX, that we would not be surprised if it piqued the interest of Hummer lover Arnold Schwarzenegger. Because we think it looks a whole lot sharper than the previous model while packing bags of street cred for an SUV. The signature spindle grille is still very much one highlight of the styling, but designers have softened it by blending the hourglass shape into the front fascia. The more upright windscreen looks best when viewed in profile. A power hatchback with glass that opens separately and a kick sensor for automatic opening is featured in the back.
Exterior is sharp and rugged, while the cabin is luxurious and hi-tech
When the GX was unveiled earlier this month, Lexus said the only powertrain available—for the time being—is the GX 550 that’s powered by a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6 producing 349 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, and paired to a 10-speed automatic gearbox. That power output is almost 50hp up on the outgoing 4.6-liter V8’s 301hp. We are also expecting a gasoline-hybrid powertrain in the next year or so. The V6 by the way, can accommodate up to 8,000 pounds of towing.
Full-time four-wheel drive and a lockable Torsen limited-slip center differential are included in the GX’s standard drivetrain. Compared to the previous model, the electronically controlled transfer case switches between 4WD-High and 4WD-Low more quickly. A locking rear differential is also available on the Overtrail grades.
While designers gave the exterior a more eye-catching and rugged exterior design, luxury and comfort were prioritized in the cabin. Buyers have a choice of either the 6-seater layout—which has two ultra-luxurious second-row captain’s chairs, or the 7-seater version with a second-row bench. The upholstery mixes semi-aniline leather and NuLuxe in the colors Black, Dapple Gray, and Saddle Tan—very chic.
The GX now has a huge 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, in contrast to the predecessor’s analog gauges with the small central screen. The infotainment display expands to 14.0 inches, versus 10.3 inches and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported. There are dials for controlling the temperature and audio volume. Buttons for operating the transfer case and differentials are behind the gearshift on the center console. A head-up display is an option.
OUR THOUGHTS
Looks are everything, and the GX has the look. We think this new edgier, rugged, sharper-looking GX with its state-of-the-art interior and class-leading tech, could give current heavy-duty off-roaders like the Jeep Wrangler and Land Rover Defender a real run for their money. While we don’t have any pricing details about the new GX at the moment, we think it will land in showrooms later in the summer starting at prices a little north of the current model’s $59,775.
