Lexus Unveils TX and GX Utilities

Lexus has been teasing the arrival of two new utilities for 2024, and now we finally have a look at them both: The next-gen version of the GX and a new nameplate for the brand, the TX.

Both of these midsize SUVs have their own features and amenities worth bragging about. We’ll start with the TX because it’s all-new; though, the GX is rather captivating with its rugged overlanding aesthetics.

For those that are looking at the TX and drawing comparisons to the recently debuted (and subject of a MotorWeek First Drive) 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander, the connection is not unwarranted. Built upon the GA-K platform, this utility measures out to 203.1-inches long (add 0.4-inches for the TX 500h), 78.3-inches wide and 70.1-inches tall, riding atop a 116.1-inch wheelbase. For comparison’s sake, the Toyota Grand Highlander comes out to 201.4-inches long; all other dimensions are identical. And for the record, width and height are measured without side mirrors and antenna respectively.

The TX is made specifically for the North American audience, offering three-rows of seating and a variety of powertrains. Behind the third row, expect 20.1 cubic-feet of cargo capacity, bumping up to 57.4 cu.-ft and 97 cu.-ft with the third and second rows folded flat. Lexus didn’t specify rear legroom, only describing it as “spacious” in the rearmost row; but, we suspect the Grand Highlander’s 39.5-inches in the second row and 33.5-inches in the third row to basically carry over.

The TX is available in three powertrains: The TX 350, 500h and 550h+. The 350 is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-4, rated at 275 horsepower. This engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic, available in either a front- or all-wheel drive layout. Next up is the 500h, using the same 2.4-liter engine now paired to a hybrid system for a combined output of 366 horsepower, sent to the standard all-wheel drive system through a six-speed automatic. The final option is the 550h+, a plug-in hybrid, the foundation of which is a 3.5-liter V6. It incorporates a CVT automatic to channel all 406 horsepower to the standard all-wheel drive system. Lexus estimates 33 miles of battery-only range.

The interior is appropriately appointed with tech, headlined by a standard 14-inch infotainment screen with smartphone integration. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and head-up display are both available. Moving back, the second row can be outfitted with either a 60/40 folding bench or captain’s chairs. Equipment will change between trims, consisting of Standard, Premium, Luxury and F SPORT Performance grades.

If the TX was built with pampered people hauling in mind, the new GX was created with the overlanding crowd in its sights. And upon first glances, they’ve nailed it with the aesthetics. This generation of GX has the boxy, rugged styling to match its off-road capabilities. The all-new Overtrail grade certainly encapsulates the adventuring vibes more, but even the “regular” models exude some level of trail-ready capability via toned muscularity and defined bodylines.

All grades are 197-inches long and 83.2-inches wide, riding on a 112.2-inch wheelbase– slight increases over the outgoing generation. The previous generation’s V8 has been replaced by a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6 and a 10-speed automatic. This combination is standard across the board and sends all 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque to the full-time 4WD system.

There are multiple grades to choose from, including the expected Premium and Luxury trims with their “+” upgrades; but, serious overlanders will be more interested in the all-new Overtrail and Overtrail+.  Building atop the aforementioned rugged exterior, the Overtrail rides on standard 33-inch all-terrain tires wrapping 18-inch wheels. They’re sheathed by black overfenders, joined by aluminum skid plates underneath. Of course, extra equipment and a two-tone paint job aren’t the only bits of the equation. The GX packs a standard 4WD and Torsen limited-slip center differential, joined by an electronic locking rear diff on Overtrail models. Drivers are assisted by available Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control, and Downhill Assist Control systems, as well as an Electronic-Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System.

The interior, when compared to the TX, gives off a slightly more rugged vibe, but is complemented by much of the same tech. The 14-inch infotainment screen is also standard here, as is the 12.3-inch Multi-Information Display. The head-up display, however, remains optional. The GX offers seating up to seven, with either second row captain’s chairs or a 60:40 folding bench in three-row models.

Prospective buyers for either utility won’t have to wait too long. The 2024 Lexus GX, being built at the Tahara plant in Japan, will go on sale early 2024. The TX will see a staggered launch, with 350 and 500h models arriving this fall and 550h+ models arriving at a later date.