The new Lexus GX and TX are two very different three-row SUVs
Looking like the futuristic SUV we were promised in the ’80s, this boxy brute of a new Lexus is a welcome sight. The body-on-frame GX might just be our favorite Lexus fascia in this new, post-spindle-grille era. The faceted machine before you has the looks of a brawny off-roader and the Overtrail trim with standard 33-inch all-terrain tires, locking rear differential, and multiple terrain modes, aims to be the overlanding choice for luxury SUV buyers.
In an expected change from previous GX models, the new model now uses the same TNGA-F platform as the Toyota Tundra, Sequoia, and Tacoma as well as the Lexus LX and Toyota Land Cruiser. In fact, the new GX rides on the same 112.2-inch wheelbase as the current LX and Land Cruiser.
All GX models will be powered by the same 3.4-liter twin-turbo V-6 that churns out 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic. Fuel economy is estimated at 17 mpg combined, but expect that Overtrail trim to be a bit lower than the more luxury-oriented trims. A hybrid drivetrain is slated to launch later to bring that number up.
Inside, a 12.3-inch multi-information display for the driver is flanked by a 14-inch multimedia touchscreen with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Three rows of seating come with the option for the second-row captain’s chairs or a 60/40 split-folding bench. A 10-speaker sound system is standard, with an optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound.
The 2024 GX will begin arriving from Toyota’s Tahara plant in Japan in early 2024.
Next, we have the new Lexus TX. Based on Toyota’s Grand Highlander, the unibody TX takes a vastly different approach to people moving than the body-on-frame GX. This three-row places more emphasis on comfort and its third row looks like a far more enjoyable place to spend a road trip. Because everything’s bigger in TX (sorry, couldn’t help it). Its looks, however, are decidedly more mainstream, appropriate considering it will sell in far greater quantities than its off-road stablemate.
“It’s only human to want the best seat in the house. And it’s only Lexus to make every seat the best seat,” said Dejuan Ross, group vice president and general manager, Lexus Division. “This is a pivotal moment for our brand, creating an elegant and indulgent vehicle experience for every single passenger. TX prioritizes comfort in every row and embodies our steadfast commitment to electrification, technology, performance and design.”
Three powerplants will be available. A 275-hp 2.4-liter turbocharged four paired with an eight-speed auto will power the TX 350. A hybrid powertrain that boosts the 2.4-liter to 366 hp uses a six-speed auto in the TX 500H. Finally, a 3.5-liter V-6 plug-in hybrid that uses a continuously variable transmission to deliver 33 miles of all-electric driving and a total output of 406 hp will be used in the TX 500h+. Lexus is estimating 21 mpg, 24 mpg, and 30 mpg combined from each powertrain, respectively.
TX will mark the first Lexus built in Toyota’s Indiana plant, with the TX 350 and 500h set to go on sale later this fall. The TX 550h+ PHEV will follow at a later date.
***
Check out the Hagerty Media homepage so you don’t miss a single story, or better yet, bookmark it. To get our best stories delivered right to your inbox, subscribe to our newsletters.
I guess if you want something with a V6 without the hybrid stuff the GX might be your only option. The GX looks like it is made from legos with the brick styling.
Kudos to Lexus to offering two distinct flavors of 3-row/7-passenger SUVs and NOT trying to make a “Does everything but does nothing well” SUV like other luxury brands that shall remain nameless. For many big families the TX will be a not-that-much-more-expensive alternative to a minivan! And for plenty of others (like me) the distinct shape and true off-roadability (and higher tow limit) will be prioritized. They will BOTH sell well (for a luxury SUV) and I’m sure both will be reliable as the sun rising every morning.