Did you know that the 2024 Lexus GX 550 Premium can tow up to 9,063 pounds? That’s more than enough to haul a large boat or camper trailer, making this luxury SUV a versatile choice for adventure-seekers and families alike. Let’s dive into a comprehensive review of this impressive vehicle.
Introduction
The Return of a Legend
The Lexus GX has long been admired by off-roading enthusiasts and luxury SUV buyers alike. With the introduction of the 2024 Lexus GX 550 Premium, Lexus has reimagined this beloved model, blending rugged capability with refined luxury in a way that few vehicles can match.
What’s New for 2024
For 2024, Lexus has given the GX a complete overhaul. The most significant change is under the hood, where a new twin-turbocharged V6 engine replaces the old V8, offering improved performance and efficiency. The exterior design has been modernized while retaining the GX’s iconic boxy silhouette, and the interior has been upgraded with the latest technology and premium materials.
Target Audience
The GX 550 Premium is designed for a diverse group of buyers. It appeals to:
- Luxury SUV enthusiasts who want a vehicle that stands out from the crowd
- Off-road adventurers who need genuine capability without sacrificing comfort
- Families seeking a spacious, safe, and versatile vehicle for daily use and weekend getaways
- Boaters and campers who require significant towing capacity
Exterior Design
A Familiar Face with Modern Touches
The 2024 GX retains its boxy, upright stance, a nod to its off-road heritage. However, Lexus has modernized the design with sleeker lines and contemporary details. The front fascia features Lexus’s signature spindle grille, now more integrated into the overall design. LED headlights with distinctive L-shaped daytime running lights flank the grille, giving the GX a bold and unmistakable presence on the road.
Design Highlights
Some notable exterior features of the GX 550 Premium include:
- 20-inch alloy wheels (with 22-inch wheels available on higher trims)
- Power moonroof
- Roof rails for additional cargo-carrying options
- Hands-free power liftgate
- Available illuminated running boards
The GX’s design isn’t just about looks; it’s functional too. The high ground clearance and short overhangs contribute to its off-road prowess, while the boxy shape maximizes interior space and visibility.
Color Options
Lexus offers a range of sophisticated color options for the GX 550 Premium, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle. While the exact color palette may vary, expect a mix of classic shades like Caviar (black) and Atomic Silver, along with more distinctive options like Nori Green Pearl or Nightfall Mica.
Interior Design and Comfort
Premium Cabin Ambiance
Step inside the 2024 Lexus GX 550 Premium, and you’re greeted by a luxurious interior that blends high-quality materials with thoughtful design. The cabin features premium leather upholstery, real wood trim, and metal accents that create an upscale atmosphere. The overall design is clean and modern, with a focus on user-friendly controls and comfortable seating.
Seating and Space
The GX 550 Premium offers three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. Here’s a breakdown of the seating arrangement:
- First row: 10-way power-adjustable seats with heating and ventilation
- Second row: Available captain’s chairs or a 60/40-split bench seat
- Third row: Power-folding 50/50-split seats
Legroom and headroom are generous in the first and second rows, making the GX comfortable for adults on long journeys. The third row, while not as spacious, is suitable for children or occasional adult use on shorter trips.
Cargo Capacity
The GX 550 Premium offers flexible cargo space to suit various needs:
- 10 cubic feet behind the third row
- 40 cubic feet with the third row folded
- 77 cubic feet with both second and third rows folded
This versatility allows the GX to transition easily from people-hauler to cargo-carrier, making it ideal for family road trips or weekend DIY projects.
Technology and Features
Lexus has equipped the GX 550 Premium with a host of advanced technology features, including:
- 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Available head-up display
- Mark Levinson premium audio system (optional)
- Multi-zone climate control
- Wireless smartphone charging pad
The infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, with crisp graphics and easy-to-navigate menus. Voice commands and physical buttons for key functions provide additional control options, enhancing usability while driving.
Performance and Handling
Powertrain and Transmission
At the heart of the 2024 Lexus GX 550 Premium is a new 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine. This powerplant produces:
- 349 horsepower at 5200 rpm
- 479 lb-ft of torque at 2000 rpm
The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, which helps optimize both performance and fuel efficiency. Power is sent to all four wheels through a full-time four-wheel-drive system, ensuring excellent traction in various driving conditions.
On-Road Performance
Despite its off-road capabilities, the GX 550 Premium is remarkably composed on pavement. The twin-turbo V6 provides ample power for confident highway merging and passing. In Car and Driver’s testing, the GX 550 Premium accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, which is impressive for a vehicle of this size and weight.
The ride quality is comfortable, thanks to the adaptive variable suspension system that adjusts damping based on road conditions and driving style. While the GX’s high center of gravity means it’s not as agile as a sports sedan, it handles corners with surprising poise for a large SUV.
Off-Road Capabilities
True to its heritage, the GX 550 Premium is a capable off-roader. It comes equipped with:
- Full-time four-wheel drive
- Two-speed transfer case with low range
- Multi-Terrain Select system
- Crawl Control for low-speed off-road maneuvering
- Downhill Assist Control
- Available adaptive variable suspension with auto-leveling rear air springs
These features allow the GX to tackle challenging terrain with confidence, from rocky trails to muddy paths. The available Overtrail trim enhances off-road capability even further with additional features like a locking rear differential and all-terrain tires.
Towing Capacity
One of the standout features of the GX 550 Premium is its impressive towing capacity. When properly equipped, it can tow up to 9,063 pounds. This capability makes the GX an excellent choice for those who need to haul boats, trailers, or other heavy loads. The standard Trailer Sway Control system helps maintain stability when towing, enhancing safety on the road.
Fuel Efficiency
EPA Estimates
Given its size and power, the 2024 Lexus GX 550 Premium delivers respectable fuel economy. The EPA estimates for the GX 550 are:
- City: 15 mpg
- Highway: 21 mpg
- Combined: 17 mpg
While these figures aren’t class-leading, they represent an improvement over the previous generation’s V8 engine, especially considering the increased power output.
Real-World Fuel Economy
In real-world testing conducted by Car and Driver, the GX 550 Premium achieved 21 mpg on their 75-mph highway fuel economy route. This aligns with the EPA’s highway estimate, suggesting that owners can expect to achieve similar results in real-world driving conditions.
It’s worth noting that fuel economy can vary based on driving conditions, load, and whether you’re using the vehicle’s off-road or towing capabilities. Drivers who frequently engage in these activities may see lower overall fuel economy.
Safety Features
Standard Safety Equipment
Lexus has equipped the GX 550 Premium with a comprehensive suite of safety features as standard. The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Lane Departure Alert
- Road Sign Assist
- All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Intelligent High Beams
Additionally, the GX comes standard with:
- 10 airbags
- Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Panoramic View Monitor (360-degree camera system)
- Parking Support Brake
These features work together to provide a high level of active and passive safety, helping to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision.
Optional Safety Tech
For those seeking even more advanced safety features, Lexus offers additional options such as:
- Head-Up Display
- Traffic Jam Assist
- Lane Change Assist
- Front Cross-Traffic Alert
These optional features further enhance the GX’s safety credentials, providing drivers with additional information and assistance in various driving scenarios.
Price and Value
Starting MSRP
The 2024 Lexus GX 550 Premium has a starting MSRP of $64,250. This price point positions it competitively within the luxury midsize SUV segment, especially considering its off-road capabilities and premium features.
Available Trim Levels
Lexus offers the GX in several trim levels to suit different preferences and budgets:
- Premium (base model)
- Luxury
- Overtrail
- Overtrail+
Each trim level adds additional features and capabilities, with the top-of-the-line models reaching into the $80,000 range when fully equipped.
Competitors
The GX 550 Premium competes in a crowded segment that includes vehicles like:
- BMW X5
- Mercedes-Benz GLE
- Land Rover Defender
- Jeep Grand Cherokee
While each of these competitors has its strengths, the GX stands out for its combination of luxury, off-road capability, and reliability. Its towing capacity is also a significant advantage for buyers who need to haul heavy loads.
Conclusion
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Lexus GX 550 Premium represents a successful evolution of the GX line. It maintains the rugged capability that has made the GX popular among off-road enthusiasts while significantly improving on-road comfort, technology, and efficiency. The new twin-turbo V6 engine provides ample power and improved fuel economy compared to its predecessor, and the updated interior offers a truly premium experience.
Key strengths of the GX 550 Premium include:
- Impressive off-road capability
- High towing capacity
- Luxurious and well-appointed interior
- Comprehensive safety features
- Lexus reputation for reliability
Areas where some buyers might find room for improvement:
- Fuel economy, while improved, still lags behind some competitors
- Third-row space is limited for adults
- Infotainment system, while updated, may not be as intuitive as some rivals
Recommendation
The 2024 Lexus GX 550 Premium is an excellent choice for buyers seeking a luxury SUV that doesn’t compromise on capability. It’s particularly well-suited for:
- Families who need a spacious, safe, and versatile vehicle
- Outdoor enthusiasts who want to combine off-road adventures with everyday luxury
- Those who require significant towing capacity without sacrificing comfort
If you prioritize off-road ability, towing capacity, and a premium interior over class-leading fuel economy or sports-car-like handling, the GX 550 Premium should be high on your list. Its blend of luxury, capability, and reliability make it a compelling option in the luxury midsize SUV segment.
For potential buyers, we recommend taking the GX for a test drive to experience its on-road comfort and, if possible, test its off-road capabilities. Pay attention to the technology features and interior space to ensure they meet your needs. Consider your typical driving conditions and how you plan to use the vehicle to determine if the GX 550 Premium is the right fit for your lifestyle.
In conclusion, the 2024 Lexus GX 550 Premium successfully modernizes the GX formula, offering a unique combination of luxury and capability that sets it apart in a crowded market. Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring off-road trails, the GX proves itself as a versatile and refined companion for all your adventures.
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