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2024 Lexus GX550 Overtrail Tested

Updated on Aug 9, 2024

The all-new 2024 Lexus GX550 Overtrail builds upon the legacy of Lexus’ revered off-roader. This complete redesign only keeps the name and mission of the prior generation GX introducing a completely new platform, modernized drivetrain, and host of new technology. Can the new Lexus GX550 live up to the reputation that created the prior generation’s cult following? To find out, we spent the week behind the wheel of the 2024 Lexus GX550 Overtrail to see if Lexus’ latest SUV can live up to its lofty reputation.

The 2024 Lexus GX550 Overtrail is the first redesign of the GX since 2010. In that fourteen-year-long production run, the second-generation Lexus GX460 gained a reputation for being a reliable and capable off-road platform. These SUVs were sought after for their simplicity and dependability since it was well-known that they would always deliver when the going was too tough. For 2024 the new GX550 has a lot to prove, instead of capturing the attention of customers with its proven track record. The new GX550 is a ground-up rethink offering more capability, far better technology, and a modern drivetrain. Will these significant updates capture the attention and wallets of the GX faithful?

A True Off-Road Luxury Icon

In today’s SUV-crazed world where luxury and capability earn you serious street-cred at the local country club, it’s important to play the part. This is a familiar formula the Land Rover has built its company around and one of the only reasons the Mercedes G-Wagon is a perennial favorite among the ultra-wealthy.

In the past, the Lexus GX460 was the light version of this formula for those who wanted to fly under the radar and not spend time at their mechanic. In 2024, however, things have shifted toward the new GX550. Thanks to a striking exterior design that commands attention while remaining mature and gimmick-free, the GX is ready to take on more luxurious competitors.

The new 2024 Lexus GX550 Overtrail looks far more purpose-built than its predecessor. In the Overtrail trim, it more overtly displays its off-road ability while still remaining upscale. It’s this newfound confidence and attention to detail that elevates the GX550 to compete with the best off-road luxury SUVs on the market.

Modern Drivetrain

The GX550 ditches the prior generation 4.6-liter 1UR-FE V8 in favor of Lexus’ new twin-turbo 3.4-liter V35A-FTS V6 engine. Toyota has elected to replace every V8 in its entire product portfolio with turbocharged engines ushering in a new era for the brand.

The 4.6-liter 1UR-FE V8 found in the Lexus GX460 was known for being extremely reliable and able to withstand the punishment of high mileage and off-roading. The 4.6-liter V8 produced 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque. The all-new twin-turbo 3.4-liter V35A-FTS V6 engine found in the GX550 delivers a massive 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque.

This new V6 engine is a version of the boosted V6 found in the Toyota Tundra and Sequoia without the assistance of hybrid tech like those vehicles. The V6 in the GX also uses smaller turbocharges to help with quicker response and reduced turbo lag. In our testing, we found the V35A-FTS V6 engine to be incredibly smooth and quick to respond easily moving the 5500 lb SUV with authority. The GX’s refined interior keeps engine noise to a minimum so you barely notice the V6 under the hood.

The GX550 also benefits from a brand new 10-speed automatic transmission which replaced the old 6-speed auto. The 10-speed in the GX is smooth, quick to respond, and most important of all fades into the background during normal driving. The combination of this responsive transmission and torquey V6 is the perfect drivetrain for the new GX550.

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Off-Road Monster and On-Road Cruiser

The Lexus GX is a true body-on-frame purpose-built SUV. Built on the GA-F platform, the new Lexus GX introduces a modern ladder frame that increases body rigidity and is built to handle the challenges of off-roading. In addition to a strong platform, the new GX introduces a dual wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear setup giving it the best platform to deliver a superior driving experience. The new Lexus GX combines an impressive array of both mechanical and electronic systems to make it the most capable Lexus SUV ever.

All Lexus GXs come standard with full-time four-wheel-drive that can be switched between high and low depending on the needs of the driver. The GX comes standard with a Torsen limited-slip center locking differential which splits power 50/50 between the front and rear axles. In our GX550 Overtrail, there’s also an electronic locking rear differential to further improve off-road capability.

To further deliver comfort and capability on and off-road, Lexus introduced the new electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) system. This system locks and unlocks the front and rear stabilizer bars to assist with control and enhanced wheel articulation. In past Lexus GXs, the KDSS system was purely passive and mechanical, but with the introduction of electronic controls, Lexus can leverage the system for greater impact.

Modern Tech-Filled Cabin

The new Lexus GX’s biggest change lies in the interior. This completely new space is the perfect blend of friendly tech and high-quality buttons and switches to create a welcoming user experience. There’s an air of quality that dominates the space and shows you exactly where your hard-earned money has gone.

In modern SUVs it’s all too easy to fall into a technological pit of despair and confusion. Thankfully Lexus has finally managed to build a fantastic infotainment setup that’s both beautiful and easy to use. In prior generations, the infotainment setup was a weakness for Lexus but they’ve turned things around in a big way. New customers will immediately feel at home operating the controls and the seamless integration of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto adds to the ease of use. The system feels robust and the physical controls feel like they’re built to last a lifetime which is exactly what you want from a Lexus SUV. To nitpick, it’s unfortunate that the seat heating and cooling controls are relegated to the touch screen footer when so many other Toyota products utilize buttons for the same function.

A Legend Reborn

The Lexus GX has big shoes to fill. This cult classic luxury off-roader is a true enthusiast product and we’re happy to report that Lexus has improved it in every single way possible. In today’s SUV-packed roads, the new GX stands out as a product many will aspire to own. Its ability to tackle complex off-road trails while still remaining comfortable on the road speaks volumes to the engineering effort that went into its development. The new Lexus GX is a triumph for Lexus as one of the company’s most desirable products ever. This is truly a Lexus LC500 for the off-road community.