An Instant Hit? The Next-Generation, Twin-Turbo 2024 Lexus GX Embraces its Rugged Side in a Big Way

• June 10, 2023
• Story By
  Mike Garrett

Over its first two generations, the understated Lexus GX has always been a cult favorite among off-roaders and overlanders.

While casual buyers might see it as a mid-sized luxury SUV with 4WD and good towing capability, enthusiasts have embraced the GX as the North American version of the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado or a V8-powered sibling of the beloved 4Runner.

A Strong Reputation

For years now, those enthusiasts have been taking the capable but mild-mannered GX470s and GX460s and building them into ruggedized adventurers that can eat up challenging off-road trails with power and refinement not found in other body-on-frame SUVs.

And now, for the debut of the third-generation 2024 GX, Lexus has truly leaned into the model’s popularity among off-roaders, with a new version that’s tougher-looking, more capable and more powerful than before.

A new GX has been a long time coming. Like its cousin the Toyota 4Runner, the outgoing GX460 has been on sale since the 2010 model year. Lexus has modernized the interior and exterior over the years, but the running gear and platform have been unchanged.

New From the Ground Up

The new version gets a clean sheet re-design, now riding on the new body-on-frame platform shared by the larger Lexus LX600 (as well as the new Toyota Tacoma, Tundra and Sequoia).

And like the rest of the latest Toyota and Lexus trucks, the GX550 leaves behind its old naturally aspirated engine for turbocharged power. The 4.6 V8 from the GX460 is gone, replaced by a 3.4L twin-turbocharged V6 making 349hp and 479 pound-feet of torque. Lexus says a hybrid version will also join the lineup in the future.

The new turbo V6 is mated to a ten-speed automatic transmission, and as before the GX will get standard, full-time 4WD. It will also be able to tow up to 8,000 pounds.

New Look

But what’s most dramatic about the new model is the styling. While the previous versions of the GX were appreciated more for their capability and refinement than their bold look the new one leans heavily into its rugged reputation.

It’s upright, boxy and a little retro looking — even to the point of bringing the Mercedes G-Wagen and Land Rover Defender to mind.

An SUV Home Run?

Those familiar with the GX470 and GX460 will note that the old side-hinged tailgate is gone, replaced with a traditional power-folding liftgate. The new styling also brings functional improvements for off-roading, with reduced overhang and improved approach and departure angles. 

Off-Road Options

Speaking of off-roading, the 2024 GX will even be available in a new off-road oriented trim called “Overtrail.” Overtrail models will get optional two-tone paint, black over-fenders, 33-inch tires, a standard electronic locking rear diff, an aluminum skid plate and more.

While the new GX won’t start hitting dealerships until early 2024, Lexus may have a hit on its hands here. Pricing hasn’t been announced, but the outgoing GX has a starting MSRP around $60,000 so don’t expect the new one to be any cheaper than that.

And that's before you start dealing with dealer markup.

Those in the know have always appreciated the GX’s attributes as a fantastic under-the-radar 4x4, the new version looks to combine that well-known capability with 2020s technology and a curb appeal that it's never had before.