After what seems like an eternity, the 2024 Lexus GX gets a ground-up redesign and a new range-topping Overtrail trim level along with a distinctive new look.
“For more than two decades, the GX has bridged the gap between legendary off-road capability and luxurious everyday driving,” said Dejuan Ross, group vice president and general manager, Lexus division, in a statement. “The GX is a critical piece in the evolution of the next chapter for Lexus.”
A fresh wardrobe
Perhaps the most noticeable change is its angular, boxy appearance. Yet it possesses a tough, pugnacious stance and overall proportion that renders it among the best-looking SUVs Toyota has ever drawn. Yes, you can see the influence of the Jeep Wagoneer in its design, particularly aft of the rear door. Its upright appearance is a departure for the brand’s SUVs, but welcome.
The GX’s grille has been raised and is naturally integrated into the front fascia, avoiding the glued-on appearance of most of Lexus’ current spindle grilles. But its design helps prevent damage to the grille while off-road.
But it’s the GX’s 3.74-inch wider track that you’ll notice as it gives the truck a far better proportion. If that’s still not enough, opt for the new Overtrail trim; it’s 4.52 inches wider and wears 33-inch all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels. The GX is the first Lexus to get the new Overtrail trim, which will migrate across the Lexus line-up. The new Overland grade will be used on the brand’s most trail-worthy SUVs, so look for it on future Lexus models. Just don’t call it Overland.
But the new GX isn’t just wider, it’s also 2.75 inches longer residing on a 2.36-inch longer wheelbase, all of which play a major part in it improved proportions.
Lexus will offer 11 colors on the GX, although Overtrail grades wear exclusive two-tone paint and get the most rubber for off-road work.
The inside story
For 2024, the Lexus GX will be offered in six grades: Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+, and all-new for Lexus, Overtrail and Overtrail+. But despite the Lexus GX’s rugged appearance, it still boasts a premium cabin, but has a new lower, horizontal instrument panel to help improve forward visibility. Designers also improved side visibility, and included a head-up display to augment the instrument cluster.
As you’d expect, there’s a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a center-mounted 14-inch multimedia touchscreen, as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 10-speaker premium surround sound system, with 21- speaker Mark Levinson surround sound system, is optional. Blessedly, the infotainment system doesn’t include controls for climate control or audio volume; they’re old-school knobs and buttons. The same is true for the off-road controls, which are logically placed near the transmission shifter. And there are six illuminated charging ports, as well as an optional angled wireless charger that makes accessing your smartphone while driving a snap.
Being a Lexus GX, designers have managed to fit seating for seven, with the second row available as either captain’s chairs or a 60/40 split-folding bench seat. And, of course the third-row folds manually or with power to expand luggage capacity. And what would a luxury SUV be without Up front, you’ll find heated and ventilated seats? Heated second-row seats are optional, as is a Cool Box.
The hardware
As you might suspect, the GX uses the GA-F platform’s ladder frame used for the Lexus LX 600, Toyota Tacoma and Tundra and employs a double-wishbone front suspension paired with a multi-link rear suspension. An adaptive variable suspension is optional.
It’s all there to service one of two drivelines. At launch, the GX will be powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 producing 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. A noticeable improvement from the current model’s 301 hp. As a result, towing capacity is now 8,000 pounds on Premium, Premium+ and Overtrail models with the standard tow hitch.
There will also be a hybrid driveline, but Lexus didn’t release any details, other to say it’s coming at a later date. Lexus didn’t announce pricing either, but the 2023 GX starts at $59,275.
Look for the new GX to go on sale in early 2024.
