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Bigger and more powerful, the Lexus GX gets its first update in nearly 14 years

Say hello to the 2024 Lexus GX: the first significant overhaul of the platform in nearly 14 years. In most areas, it hasn't gone soft — underneath that boxy-yet-handsome styling remains a body-on-frame chassis and full-time 4WD that serve as the backbones of the GX's off-road ability. Beyond that, Lexus promises that the GX will remain one of the most luxurious ways to traverse an off-road trail with a newly designed interior layout and seating for up to seven.

However, some fans of the off-roader may mourn the demise of the V8 option. Under the hood lies a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 engine. Granted, it has more power and is mated to a 10-speed automatic as standard at launch. For now, it's the only engine on offer, but choices will open up later down the line, with a hybrid drivetrain on the horizon.

Bigger And Boxier

You won't have any trouble identifying the 2024 Lexus GX from previous models, thanks to the chiseled bodywork of the new car. Viewed in profile, the 2024 GX is almost reminiscent of the 70 Series Toyota Land Cruiser —and, of course, the Lexus will be closely related to the replacement for the Japanese Land Cruiser Prado.

The Lexus spindle grille has been incorporated well, with an upright design ensuring the nose isn't too curvacious in contrast with the rest of the body. The hood features what could be described as a reverse power bulge, with the outermost edges on either side protruding higher, in line with the headlights. The lights feature the family Lexus graphics, while the mirrors are again large and boxy a-la old-school Cruiser. Moving to the rear, the design remains unfussed. There's a full-length light bar that sits below a large rear window which can be opened independently of the newly-standard power tailgate.

The 2024 Lexus GX is 2.75 inches (70 mm) longer and 3.74 inches (95 mm) wider than the outgoing car, while the wheelbase is stretched by 2.36 inches (60 mm). The SUV clocks in at 197.04 inches (5005 mm) in length, 83.33 inches wide (2117 mm), and — depending on the tires it comes with — is 75.39–76.18 inches (1915–1935 mm) tall.

Rugged Overtrail Makes Its First Production Appearance

The 2024 Lexus GX will be offered in six grades: Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+, and all-new for Lexus, Overtrail, and Overtrail+. The latter two options are Lexus-speak for "maximum outdoorsy trail basher" versions. Overtrail concepts were previously shown in January at the Tokyo Outdoor Show, but this is the first time we’ll see dedicated editions with the new moniker in production.

While the main thrust of the marketing materials seems to highlight the two-tone exterior colors and "earth tone" interiors, the main takeaway is the inclusion of 33-inch All-Terrain tires on 18-inch wheels as standard. To keep the tires within the body, the GX Overtrail models feature over-fenders, while an aluminum skid plate is standard.

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Overtrail trims also get an electronic locking rear differential and improved wheel articulation thanks to Toyota's Electronic-Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS), which disconnects the anti-roll bars when off-road. There's also a bevy of off-road tech as standard, including Multi-Terrain Select (MTS), Crawl Control, Downhill Assist Control (DAC), and 3D Multi-Terrain Monitor.

Finally, Overtrail+ models get a nicer pair of front chairs, designed for "optimal off-road comfort" and with massage functions and extra power functionality for the driver's seat.

Death Of The V8, Welcome TT V6

The Lexus GX V8 is dead — long live the GX V6. Instead, you get a 3.4-liter V6 with twin turbos to make up the difference. In fact, the new powerplant more than makes up the difference, offering 349 hp (354 PS / 260 kW) and 479 lb-ft (650 Nm) of torque, which is 48 hp (45 PS / 36 kW) and 34 lb-ft (46 Nm) more than the old V8. There's just the one powerplant at launch, but Lexus promises a hybrid drivetrain will be introduced in the near future.

In the meantime, the ICE V6 is coupled to a 10-speed automatic, and towing capacity is now rated at 8,000 lbs (3,629 kg) for grades with the standard tow hitch. Full-time 4WD is standard as it always has been, and there's a Torsen limited-slip center differential. Additionally, an improved transfer case means that switching between 4H and 4L is now faster too.

Much-Improved Interior

The new Lexus GX features the brand's latest approach to interior design, notably borrowing cues from the Lexus RX and LM. The central HVAC vents are moved much lower in the dashboard to accommodate a sizeable 14-inch screen with wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto. Mercifully, there are still physical controls for the climate control and audio, while there are dedicated buttons for the vehicle's off-road features located near the gear selector.

More: The 2023 Lexus RX Raises The Crossover Bar Again While Dropping V6

Inside you can seat seven unless you opt to go for individual captain's chairs for the second-row seats. The third-row can be powered, and it can be accessed with a one-touch motion applied to the 60:40 split second row. Elsewhere inside, you’ll find up to 12 cupholders, up to six charging ports, and a 120V inverter to power up auxiliary equipment.

On Sale Next Year

The 2024 Lexus GX will go on sale in early 2024, with assembly taking place at the Tahara plant in Japan. Expect prices to be announced closer to launch.

In the meantime, do you feel like the new GX's design and features were worth the 14-year wait? Let us know below.