Lexus is getting comfortable with dirty luxury for its 2024 GX 550 Overtrail models

The 2024 Lexus GX 550 is a complete re-engineering and styling redesign. Two highly capable Overtrail models are new to the GX line. GX starting prices range from about $65,000 to $80,000. (Photography courtesy of Lexus)

Jump To Special Features

Comparing 2024 GX with 2023 GX
2024 Lexus GX 550 Pricing
Safety Features and Technologies
Interior Function
Powertrain and Performance
GX Off-Roading Accessories
GX as Off-Road Chaperone
The Lexus Overtrail Project
Why Buy the Lexus GX 550 Overtrail+?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

The re-engineered, redesigned, and just-about-new-everything 2024 Lexus GX 550 is a formidable overachiever — luxury in a gloved fist. The new GX outdistances the previous Lexus GX in most categories, but without the V-8 engine so loved by owners.

The 2024 GX 550 is a larger SUV now with twin-turbo-V6 power and a tow rating of 9,000 pounds, or 2,500 pounds more than its predecessor. All models have full-time four-wheel drive, a limited-slip center locking differential, and a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Now that Lexus dealers have the three-row, family-class TX model, Lexus could expand and enhance the GX 550 line. New for 2024 are two new Overtrail models fit for “overlanding” amid Lexus luxury.

Luxury off-roading SUVs are an oxymoron, but Lexus must see some sales-poaching opportunities. About the only GX Overtrail competition is the Land Rover Defender, an icon of mountain-goat ability with kid-glove resolve. However, the 2024 GX Overtrails have the pricing advantage, costing $70,000 to $80,000 well-equipped.

Whether for street or trail, the 2024 Lexus GX is tough looking, but the interior is calming, lux, and modern, Lexus says. There are six trim levels of pricing, four of which emphasize luxury, with seating for five, six, or seven. The Overtrail exclusively has five seats for its cargo-camping capacity.

Lexus says the GX marketing plan for the Overtrail models was to provide refined outdoor experiences. To support those experiences, Lexus created the Overtrail Project. Details are below.

It is not simple to design a husky SUV that offers luxury and off-roading dominance without compromises. As thoroughly conceived as this new GX is, there are a few missed opportunities.

Eight-way power driver’s seat has extendable thigh support.

A Pre-Production Note

The 2024 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail+ test vehicle was a pre-production model. Lexus says it is representative of a final production model. Or, as manufacturers will say, “If you like it, it’s production. If you don’t like it, it’s pre-production.”

The tester had accumulated 6,300 miles, which indicates it had extensive journalist evaluations. All the elements of the test vehicle looked to be at the production level. The interior assembly had precise fit and appealing finishes. All exterior body panels were well-aligned and secure.

In The Beginning

The first-generation GX entered the North American market in 2002. It would become a successful off-road racer in demanding events like the Baja 500.

The 2024 Lexus GX 550 is a completely new vehicle built on Toyota’s GA-F platform. It underpins body-on-frame Lexus and Toyota vehicles, including the Lexus LX 600, Toyota Land Cruiser, and Tacoma and Tundra pickups.

The 14-inch touchscreen display with Lexus Interface.

Comparing 2024 with 2023 GX

I tested the top-line 2024 GX 550 Overtrail+. It is not built on a namby-pamby unibody frame but a lightweight ladder frame. The truck-style frame increases body rigidity, crucial to withstand twisting off-road forces. The suspension capably manages the Overtrail+ curb weight of 5,675-5,705 pounds (depending on options) and its tow rating of 9,063 pounds.

With toughness comes size. Compared to the previous Lexus GX, the 2024 model has a wheelbase 2.4 inches longer, now at 112.2 inches. The GX body is 3.8 inches wider, now at 78 inches or 78.4 with the Overtrail’s fender overriders. Body length is almost 5 inches longer, at 197.05 inches. The GX stands taller by 1.39 inches, or almost 2 inches taller for Overtrail models. The wheel track is wider, too, by almost 3 1/4 inches, benefiting a secure driving stance.

Inside, there is more head and legroom throughout. Front shoulder room grew by 4 inches.

While the Lexus GX and Toyota Land Cruiser are platform partners, there are decisive separators. The Toyota is available only with a 326-hp, 2.4-liter i-Force Max hybrid four-cylinder engine. The powertrain has 465 foot-pounds of torque at a low 1,700 rpm, full-time four-wheel drive, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Land Cruiser went on sale Aug. 1, 2024. Available in three trim levels, starting prices range from $56,000 to $75,000 for the First Edition model.

The broad shift console is a switchboard of off-roading controls.

2024 Lexus GX 550 Pricing

GX shoppers can choose from six trim levels: Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+, and the new Overtrail and Overtrail+. Starting retail prices range from $64,250 to $77,250 for today’s review of the top-line GX 550 Overtrail+.

Suggested manufacturer starting prices include the $1,350 freight charge from the Tahara plant in Japan. The GX is built there with the Land Cruiser Prado and Toyota 4Runner.

With a few options, the test GX 550 Overtrail+ was an $81,000 commitment to exploring the outdoors. Standard features above the GX 550 Overtrail ($69,250) include:

• Intuitive parking assist with auto braking and rear pedestrian detection;
• Power rear door with kick sensor;
• Front massaging seats.

All standard and optional features are highlighted in the specs chart at the end of this review.

Find current Lexus GX pricing here.

Lexus GX Overtrail models have NuLuxe-trimmed seats, heated and ventilated.

Lexus GX Warranties

• Four-years/50,000-miles bumper to bumper with roadside assistance (unlimited mileage)
• No-cost first and second scheduled maintenance services;

Other benefits include:

• Trip interruption reimbursement assistance for emergency breakdown situations;
• No-cost loaner vehicles during service; or courtesy shuttle service before and after service;
• Complimentary vehicle wash after service;
• Stolen vehicle locator, up to 10-year trial, Safety Connect;
• SOS Emergency Assistance, up to 10-year trial, Safety Connect;
• Automatic collision notification, up to 10-year trial, Safety Connect;
• Remote Connect with a 3-year trial (4G network dependent);
• SiriusXM 3-month Platinum Plan trial subscription;

Upgrades, credits and more at Destinations by Lexus properties.

Standard Toyo Open Country 33-inch all-terrain tires .

Safety Features and Technologies

Among the standard GX 550 safety features, with 10 air bags, is the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0. Its advanced technologies include:

Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection — PCS. Using a camera and millimeter-wave radar, the pre-collision system can help detect and alert to a vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist. If the driver does not react, the system can use automatic emergency braking between 7 and 110 mph.

Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist. Emergency maneuvers get an additional steering boost to prevent lane departure between 25-50 mph.

Left Turn Oncoming Vehicle Detection/Braking. If turning left in front of an oncoming vehicle, the system will issue a warning alert followed by automatic braking. This feature is functional only during daylight hours.

Emergency Driving Stop System — EDSS. If the system detects no driver input for some time, audible warnings will alert the driver. If the driver does not respond, the system will slow the vehicle to a stop, keeping it safely in the lane. EDSS only operates when driving on expressways with DRCC and LTA activated.

Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist — LDA w/SA. Functional above 32 mph, LDA w/SA will issue audible and visual alerts if an inadvertent lane departure is detected. If the driver does not take corrective action, the system will initiate gentle corrective steering for lane-keeping assistance.

Proactive Driving Assist — PDA. Using the vehicle’s camera and radar, PDA monitors distance control between a preceding vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist. The system will engage gentle braking and steering into curves as needed.

Fold the back seats for 5 feet in length.

GX Overtrail Interior Function

The GX front seats are in command position, comfortable for hours. In the Overtrail+, the driver gets the added benefit of an eight-way power seat with an extendable cushion. However, the front passenger seat has only six-way power, and the cushion is not long enough for leggy occupants. For $80,000, the front passenger should be treated better.

The upright windshield and side mirrors offset from the body provide wide-open views. Access to all controls is finger-reach simple, with a functional presentation of digital and manual controls.

The GX has an expansive hood, but its size is minimized by the two slightly raised channels over the fenders and tires. The lower flat plain between the fender channels benefits improved visibility. When off-roading, the raised channels help the driver see where the tires are and where to place them.

The wide center infotainment screen is not prone to glare and is equally visible to both front passengers.

Headroom with the Overtrail’s standard moonroof is 39.4 inches. Delete the moonroof, and head space gains a couple of inches to 41.7 inches. The moonroof is irrelevant for Overlanders who travel with a loaded roof rack, allowing the $1,100-delete to be applied elsewhere.

Cargo entry is broad at 45 inches by 43 inches deep to the back seat.

Back Seats and Cargo Space

Step-in access to the back seat is a little tight and narrow. If the doors opened wider, it would facilitate child-seat access and gear loading. Legroom is good at a max 36.7 inches if tall people are not sitting up front.

The manual lever for the fold-and-tumble back seats could use some refinement for ease of use.

GX cargo space is big and square, 45 inches wide at the tailgate opening. Boxy gear is easily loaded and secured with 36 inches from floor to headliner.

Fold the 60/40 back seat for 5 feet in length. However, the expanded cargo space is not a contiguous flat space, such as for sleeping. There is about a 3-inch dip in the floor under the back seats. Some type of filler pad will be needed to fill the void for comfortable sleeping.

A tonneau cover is $110? For an $80,000 specialized luxury off-roading SUV, a tonneau cover should be standard equipment. The roller cover keeps eyes off the cargo contents, whether at the mall or on the trail.

The back seats fold and tumble.

Powertrain and Performance

For 2024 in the U.S., the standard powertrain in the GX is a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 engine paired with a 10-speed direct-shift automatic Transmission.

Lexus says the 349-horsepower twin-turbo V-6 outperforms the previous generation V-8, with 301-hp Torque output—towing grunt—also rising to a substantial 479 lb.-ft. from 2,000-3,600 rpm. Compare that to the previous GX 460, with 329 lb.-ft. at 3,500 rpm.

Performance around town can be strong in Normal and Sport modes. Eco mode is too hand-wringing cautious for me.

Fuel economy ratings are essentially the same as before: 15 mpg city, 21 highway, and 17 mpg combined, a 1 mpg highway boost. As before, maximum power requires premium fuel.

When the GX tester was delivered to my San Diego home, the average mileage rating was 15.1 mpg. That was after the 100-mile drive from Orange County, near Long Beach. The mileage did not get much better. During my test week, I took two 80-mile roundtrips and a shorter highway drive of around 75 miles. With that much highway driving, using Eco or Normal modes, the average mpg rose just to 15.5 mpg.

With my average mpg, the 21.4-gallon fuel tank in GX 550 would provide a driving range of around 330 miles. The Land Rover Defender has a 23.8-gallon tank — and every dollar and gallon matters when heading to the backcountry.

Lexus says a GX hybrid powertrain will be available in the U.S. at a later date but gives no details. Could it be the engine in the 2024 Land Cruiser?

GX towing capacity is much improved for 2024, now up to 8,000 pounds for Premium and Premium+ models. Overtrail models have tow ratings up to 9,096 pounds, with a standard tow hitch. The previous GX had a tow rating of 6,500 pounds.

The only GX powertrain for 2024 is a 349-hp twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 engine.

Ride and Handling

It is big and blunt, but the GX 550 delivers a remarkably comfortable and soundproofed ride. The cabin is so well soundproofed that highway tire noise is minimal from the 33-inch Toyo Open Country all-terrain tires. A full-size spare cranks down from under the cargo area.

One of the overachieving skills of the GX 550 Overtrail models is the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System. E-KDSS is an elaborate hydraulic system that adjusts front and rear stabilizers for consistent control. The setup of two two-way hydraulic cylinders keeps fluid moving front to rear. Sensors in the electronic circuit respond to the side-to-side and ups and downs of trail driving, and lumpy city streets. The stabilizer bars unlock for long wheel travel when off-roading. When one cylinder reacts by compressing, the other cylinder releases. Greater wheel travel increases traction by keeping the tire in contact with the trail, ruts, or sand runs. When driving on-road, the hydraulic cylinders keep the stabilizer bars fixed, allowing the bars to twist as normal to tame body roll.

Once a system used on Toyota off-road vehicles, E-KDSS is now an exclusive Lexus technology.

Lexus also says the GX adopts electronic power steering, adding increased steering feel on and off-road. The steering weight is light and responsive to small inputs. When off-road, its steering finesse is an asset when navigating a rutted or narrow track when inches matter.

However, a wide turning circle of 42 feet is a liability on a trail or at the mall. Sure, there is enough locking-differential traction to make a five-point turn on a trail, but at what cost to dragging along the greenery? Four-wheel steering would chop the turning circle by a few feet and make everybody happy at Tread Lightly.

The new seamless grille is a variation of Lexus’ spindle grille.

GX as Off-Road Chaperone

With all of the electronic driver-assistance technologies, novice Overtrail riders have a nurturing guide. However, an experienced trail-driving friend would be helpful to point out what not to do.

A Torsen limited-slip locking center differential is standard on all GX models to harness the traction capabilities. The locking diff is necessary for traction in low grip situations, splitting engine power 50:50 front for a steady pull.

The Overtrail and Overtrail+ add an electronic locking rear differential engaged by a console-mounted switch. Locking the differential splits the power evenly between the left and right rear wheels to help the wheels turn at the same speed.

Other Overtrail assets include:

Crawl Control. This electronic low-range traction system operates in five driver-selected speeds, forward or reverse.

Downhill Assist Control. The semi-automated system works with the braking system to control slippage and prevent the brakes from locking. This assistance helps drivers focus on steering and scanning ahead for hazards without applying the brakes or downshift.

Hill-Start Assist Control. HAC prevents the vehicle from rolling backward when stopped on an incline, whether off-road or on the street. Sensors detect when the vehicle is on a hill and automatically apply the brakes for about two seconds.

Multi-Terrain Assist. The electonic transfer case’s traction control system can switch between high range (H4) and low range (L4). L4 has four modes: Auto, Sand, Mud, and Rock. H4 has five modes: Auto, Dirt, Sand, Mud, and Deep Snow.

Multi-Terrain Monitor. Four cameras transpose images underfloor, front, side, and rearview, displayed on the panoramic view monitor. The underview is especially useful when off-roading.

Standard triple-beam LED headlamps have positioned higher to help avoid potential road impacts.

Observations and Considerations

Four-wheel steering. With a 42-foot turning circle, the GX 550 Overtrail+ has the grunt and traction to make five-point turnarounds on a woods trail. But at what cost to trampling the greenery? An option for four-wheel steering would be worth the price. And it would provide a better in-town parking experience.

More stash space! Off-roaders bring a lot of stuff into the vehicle’s cab. There are maps, guidebooks, gloves, a tire gauge, binoculars, and plenty of snacks. However, small-item storage is lacking in the GX 550. The door panel slots are narrow, and the center transmission console is huge and broad but has barely any space except for cup holders. There is an unnecessarily elaborate, covered slot for the 12-volt plug, which takes up valuable space. The optional Cool Box ($170) in the armrest console is smallish, with space for four small beverage bottles and a few energy bars. Cooled by AC, the insulated box is inadequate as a cooler or storage space.

Running boards fail. The GX has standard step-aboard rails that complicate ease of entry and exit. The running boards are positioned rearward and are not particularly helpful when loading the roof rail. The boards also restrict getting close to secure children into second-row child seats. When off-roading, running boards compromise trail clearance. Installing an aftermarket electric step rail would be better. These fold up after climbing aboard and automatically deploy when exiting the vehicle.

For those who use the roof rails, a handy aftermarket doorstep hooks into the door latch point. There are many choices online, and most have a weight rating of 400 pounds. Pricing ranges from $10 to $50 a step.

Seven-passenger models have a third row of seats.

Lexus Overtrail Project

Lexus has introduced the Overtrail Project to explore nature through refined adventures. The project’s goals include new products, accessories, gear, and experiences. Learn more here.

Accessories for Turn Key Overtrail Experience

With dozens of outfitting choices, the Lexus GX 550 Overtrail owner can hit the “Add” button to be (mostly) expedition-ready.

The Lexus off-roading accessories are of quality brands, but owners can shop for lower prices at aftermarket sites. However, a winch is not among the accessories. Loading up on the GX Overtrail accessories includes a Lexus warranty, which can be financed with the vehicle.

Find Lexus accessories at Associated Accessory Parts Program.

Rock Rails: $990. If you will be bashing down the Rubicon Trail, these rock rails will help protect the lower rocker panels. However, I have also seen rock rails torn off long-wheelbase vehicles on the way down.

Roof Rack $1,580. And the rack is useless without the optional cross bars, $560

ARB Premium Recovery Kit $526. Essential tools include:

• Tree trunk protector;
• Snatch strap, snatch block and bow shackles;
• ARB snatch strap;
• ARB snatch block to increase the tow winch capacity and facilitate winching from varying angles;

ARB Twin Portable Compressor $1,012. Serious off-roading requires an air compressor, portable or hard-wired to the vehicle (my preference). ARB does not cite what size tires this portable unit can handle. I expect it is intended for the 33s on the GX 550 Overtrail+.

ARB Air Compressor Pump Up Kit $114. Add this kit for its 20-foot air hose to air up after a trail run. The kit includes quick couplings and a T-junction for connecting an air check and pressure switch.

ARB TRED Pro $370, in red or gun-metal gray. Don’t leave home without these treads for lost traction in sand, mud, or snow. And ARB TRED Pro Mounting Kit $102.

The new GX outdistances the previous Lexus GX in most categories but without the V-8 engine.

Why Buy the Lexus GX 550 Overtrail+?

Who knew there were Lexus GX owners serious about off-grid travel? And why would GX owners subject the hand-rubbed paint of their pricey SUV to trail pinstriping? Will Lexus field a team for the Rebelle Rally? Will Lexus participate in the Overland Expos?

Only time will answer those questions. According to Automotive News, Lexus believes it can sell roughly 33,000 GX models in the U.S. in 2024. That tally puts the 2024 GX only slightly ahead of the 31,910 sold last year.

For now, the GX 500 Overtrail+ is a beefy, body-on-frame truck. In some respects, it has more in common with a Toyota than the luxury of a Lexus. However, there are valuable separators in Lexus warranty coverages, destinations by Lexus properties, and the kinder, gentler treatment at the dealership.

For those who still prefer the vault-like qualities of the previous Toyota Land Cruiser, they are still available in the Lexus LX 600.

Lexus GX 550 Overtrail+ Specifications

Body style: midsize, 5-seat, 5-door 4WD SUV

Engine: 349-hp, twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 w/direct- and multiport injection; 479 lb.ft. torque from 2,000-3,600 rpm

Max speed: 109 mph

Acceleration, 0-60 mph: 6.5 seconds

Transmission: 10-speed direct-shift automatic

Fuel economy: 15/21/17 mpg city/hwy/combined; premium fuel recommended

Fuel tank: 21 gallons

Coefficient of drag: 0.399 Cd

BY THE NUMBERS

Cargo space: 45.6 to 90.5* cubic feet *w/2ndrow folded

Front head/leg room: 39.4*/41.1 inches *41.7 inches w/o moonroof

Rear head/leg room: 43.1/36.7 inches

Shoulder/hip room: 59.5/57.1 inches

Length/wheelbase: 197.05/112.20 inches

Curb weight: 5,675-5,705 pounds

Turning circle: 42 feet

OFF-ROADING DIMENSIONS

Width/height: 78.4/76.18 inches

Track, front/rear: 66.42/66.46 inches

Ground clearance: 8.86 inches

Angle of approach/departure: 26/22 degrees

Breakover angle: 24 degrees

Wading depth: 27.56 inches

Wheel articulation: 24.45 inches

Tow rating: 9,063 pounds (9,096 standard Overtrail)

FEATURES

Standard GX 550 Overtrail+ equipment includes: NuLuxe-trimmed seat upholstery, heated leather-trimmed steering wheel, power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, 10-way driver and 8-way passenger heated and ventilated power front seats, front massaging seats, 4-way adjustable front headrests, memory presets for driver’s seat-side mirrors-steering wheel, heated second-row window seats, reclining-sliding 60/40-split middle-row seats, second-row manual sunshades, panoramic view monitor with multi-terrain monitor, thematic ambient illumination, illuminated door sills, dual-zone climate control with second-row vents;

Standard exterior features, include: triple-Beam LED headlamps with headlamp washers, LED foglamps, side mirrors with puddle lamps, running boards, power rear door with kick sensor, black roof rails, power tilt-and-slide moon roof, tow hitch receiver;

Multimedia / Connected Services

14-inch touchscreen display with Lexus Interface, 12.3-inch multi-information gauge display, Mark Levinson 21-speaker 1,800-watt surround sound audio, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, 4 USB-C ports, wireless phone charger, Bluetooth and USB smartphone connectivity, Lexus app (including remote connect engine start, service scheduling, vehicle health reports and alerts), Safety Connect, Service Connect, Remote Connect, Wi-Fi Connect—with AT&T Wi-Fi hotspot, Drive Connect capability with Cloud Navigation, Intelligent Assistant (Hey Lexus), and Destination Assist available by subscription (4G network dependent); Intuitive Parking Assist with auto braking and rear pedestrian detection

CHASSIS COMPONENTS

Brakes: 4-wheel ventilated discs with fixed 4-cylinder caliper front, floating single-piston rear; 13.94-inch discs front, 13.19 inches rear; electric parking brake

Steering: electric rack & pinion; 42-foot turning circle

Tires-wheels: Toyo Open Country 33-inch 265/70 all-terrain on 6-spoke alloy wheels with matte gray finish

Suspension: double wishbone four-link with coil springs

PRICING

Base price: $77,250, including $1,350 freight charge; price as tested $80,915

Options on test vehicle: Bi-tone paint $350; Cool box $170; Digital key $375; head-up display $900; 1,800-watt Mark Levinson premium surround sound, $1,140, with 21 speakers; tonneau cover $110; Traffic Jam Assist, $620. (Drive Connect subscription is required, but a 3-year trial is included.)

Where assembled: Tahara plant, Japan