It’s for good reason that the Lexus GX was one of the most-awaited redesigns of the year. This much-loved best selling SUV hasn’t had a redesign in more than a decade, so while its interior and tech felt dated, its off-road capability and seating for up to seven passengers made it a heart-felt favorite with fans.
The all-new 2024 Lexus GX 550 represents the most aggressive off-road vehicle you can buy from Toyota’s luxury division. The body-on-frame SUV benefits from a comprehensive revamp of Toyota’s chassis deployment, which has the new Lexus GX sharing underpinnings with new Lexus LX 600 and the recently-revived Land Cruiser. As the first full redesign of the Lexus GX in 14 years, the 2024 model represents a truly transformative vehicle in terms of design and capability.
Sitting on a lighter and stronger ladder frame chassis, the GX uses a double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension. Every GX comes with four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case offering a low range, while an Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) offered on Luxury and Overtrail models adds additional sophistication. Overtrail models also feature an Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) with roll bars that electronically disengage when off-roading. This allows up to 24.45 inches of wheel travel, further widening the GX’s spectrum of on-pavement refinement and off-pavement capability.
The all-new Overtrail trim is the most capable version of the new GX, with 8.9 inches of ground clearance and a locking center and rear differential. The other GX trims, Luxury and Premium, offer 8.66 inches of ground clearance and only a locking center differential. Overtrail models also include a Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) system with settings for Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow, and Auto. Overtrail models ride on 18-inch wheels with 33-inch all-terrain tires, Premium and Luxury trims on 20- or 22-inch wheels, respectively.
Off-road excursions can be fun, but Lexus would have a tough time selling a modern SUV that couldn’t live up to extremely high comfort and luxury expectations. To meet those demands, the GX 550 is powered by a new 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6 hooked to a 10-speed automatic transmission. This engine is rated at 349 horsepower (between 4,800 and 5,200 rpm) and 479 pound-feet of torque (between 2,000 and 3,600 rpm).
Read more on Forbes:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottyreiss/2024/08/26/2024-lexus-gx-review-a-modern-classic-suv-with-an-off-road-passion/
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