The all-new Lexus GX has moved on from its sleek, curved styling to a more robust, squared-off look. This sea change in how Lexus presents itself is bold and emphasizes the GX’s Toyota Land Cruiser roots.
The 2024 Lexus GX keeps the off-road chops of the previous generations of the luxury SUV, including the body-on-frame truck-based underpinnings and emphasis on engine power. While the V8 is no longer the powerplant of choice in the GX, it’s been replaced with a more than capable turbocharged V6.
The interior of the 2024 GX is a mixture of modern technology alongside some OG ergonomics fails. The large infotainment screen and abundant USB ports are offset by a cargo-hogging third row that folds mostly flat, at least. And despite the smaller engine, fuel economy still doesn’t break 20 mpg very often. Most of our week with the big GX resulted in mid-teens results instead.
The engine replacement drops a throaty V8 for a turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 that outputs 349 horsepower to a ten-speed automatic transmission with standard four-wheel drive. This is a great match for the GX, giving enough grunt to always feel in control without going overboard. And the transmission shifts as needed without clunk or fuss. The big GX isn’t afraid to downshift for more power or upshift for more economy and to mitigate the turbocharger’s natural jumpiness.
This is a great design for off-road and on-road use and comfort. And, of all the changes to the new Lexus GX, the powertrain is by far our favorite and the most impressive.
Buyers will find that the 2024 Lexus GX is still in realistic luxury SUV range, with a starting price of about $64,000 before delivery. Most buyers can expect to be in around $70,000 once options and delivery charges are met.
In our experience, the most competitive to the new Lexus GX is the Land Rover Defender 110. It’s similarly-sized and has similar capabilities. And priced to compete. The Lexus has a more luxurious feel to its interior, but the two are otherwise very comparable.
Overall, we’re fans of the new Lexus GX and are glad it didn’t go soft in this new generation.
This review originally appeared on DriveModeShow.com.
