Rediscovering Adventure: The 2024 Lexus GX550
The 2024 Lexus GX550
For the lovers of off-road exploration, the wait is finally over as Lexus unveils the much-anticipated 2024 GX550. This mid-size, off-road SUV has undergone a significant redesign, embracing an all-new platform, a revamped powertrain, and a plethora of modern features. In this comprehensive overview, we’ll delve into the intricate details that define the new GX550, exploring its design evolution, pricing, performance capabilities, and much more.
Design and Platform: A Blend of Rugged Tradition and Modernity
The GX550’s rugged appearance pays homage to its predecessors while introducing a contemporary touch. Riding on an all-new platform shared with the Toyota Sequoia and Tundra, this SUV promises enhanced performance and a robust foundation for off-road adventures. The boxy, Land Cruiser-inspired exterior not only exudes timeless charm but also positions the GX550 as a standout player in the mid-size luxury SUV segment.
Powertrain Evolution: Twin-Turbo V-6 Dominance
Bid farewell to the V-8 of the outgoing model, as the GX550 embraces a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 engine as standard. Generating a robust 349 horsepower, this powertrain outshines its predecessor, promising a dynamic driving experience. The introduction of a 10-speed automatic transmission ensures seamless power delivery, complementing the four-wheel-drive configuration that comes standard across all models.
Trim Options and Pricing: Tailoring Luxury to Your Preferences
The 2024 Lexus GX offers a range of trims, each catering to different preferences and priorities. Let’s explore the trim options and pricing:
- Premium: $64,250
- Premium+: $69,250
- Overtrail: $69,250
- Luxury: $77,250
- Overtrail+: $77,250
- Luxury+: $81,250
Our recommendation leans towards the Luxury trim, elevating the GX550’s interior with an array of premium features. From semi-aniline leather upholstery to 10-way adjustable front seats with massage, heat, and ventilation, the Luxury trim adds a touch of opulence. Additionally, illuminated door sill plates and second-row window shades contribute to an upscale and comfortable driving experience.
Performance: Conquering Every Terrain
The GX550 excels not just in luxury but also in off-road prowess. Overtrail and Overtrail+ trims stand out with specialized features, including 18-inch wheels with 33-inch All-Terrain tires, an aluminum skid plate, an adaptive suspension system with enhanced wheel articulation, crawl-control functionality, and selectable drive modes catering to diverse terrains.
Towing and Payload Capacity: Tailored for Adventure
The GX550 doesn’t just promise off-road escapades but also accommodates towing needs. The towing capacity varies across trims:
- Premium, Premium+, Overtrail, and Overtrail+: Up to 8000 pounds
- Luxury: Up to 6990 pounds
- Luxury+: Up to 6780 pounds
An upcoming hybrid powertrain is anticipated to join the lineup, offering an intriguing alternative for environmentally conscious adventurers.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG: Balancing Power and Efficiency
Despite the shift from a V-8 to a twin-turbo V-6, the GX550’s fuel economy maintains a balance. Estimated at 15 mpg city and 21 mpg highway for the nonhybrid model, the real-world performance will be subject to road tests. Stay tuned as we update this story with the GX550’s actual fuel efficiency on our 75-mph highway route.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo: Where Luxury Meets Utility
Contrary to its rugged exterior, the GX550’s interior is a haven of luxury. Faux- or genuine-leather upholstery, available in various colors, sets the stage for a comfortable journey. Overtrail variants even offer faux-suede accents in a distinctive dark green shade. The flexibility of seating configurations, including optional captain’s chairs and power-controlled third-row options, ensures that every journey is both luxurious and practical.
Infotainment and Connectivity: State-of-the-Art Entertainment
All GX models feature a 14.0-inch infotainment system equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 12.3-inch digital gauge display adds a futuristic touch, offering a customizable view for essential information. Multiple USB-C ports, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and an optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound system cater to the tech-savvy and audiophile drivers.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features: Navigating with Confidence
Safety remains paramount in the GX550, featuring an array of driver-assistance features to prevent accidents. Standard offerings include automated emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature. Stay informed about the GX’s crash-test results through the NHTSA and IIHS websites.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage: Peace of Mind on Every Journey
Lexus excels in warranty coverage, surpassing rivals such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz:
- Limited warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty: 6 years or 70,000 miles
- Complimentary maintenance: 1 year or 10,000 miles
This comprehensive coverage ensures peace of mind, reflecting Lexus’s commitment to providing a worry-free ownership experience.
A New Chapter in Off-Road Luxury
As we eagerly anticipate the arrival of the 2024 Lexus GX550 in showrooms, it’s evident that Lexus has crafted a vehicle that seamlessly combines luxury with off-road prowess. From its striking design to its robust performance capabilities, the GX550 invites drivers to embark on a new chapter of adventure, where every journey is a perfect blend of opulence and exploration.