Lexus GX

Inside, the Lexus GX 550 model line features an off-road inspired interior design that offers a balance of performance and refinement, highlighted by its tsuyasumi ornamentation and a wide array of comfort and high-tech features. The Premier trim showcases semi-aniline leather seats, while the Overtrail trim gets the synthetic leather counterparts. For a more luxurious experience, the Premier trim also gets massage, ventilation, and heating functions for its front seats (second-row seats are also heated). 

Aside from that, both trims boast spacious and very first-class-like first and second rows. Meanwhile, the Premier trim’s third-row double flat seats are more suited for kids or smaller passengers in general. Up front, the driver has access to a minimalist, high-tech cockpit that follows Lexus’ “Tazuna” concept. This consists of a 12.3-inch full-digital instrument panel, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with multiple controls, and a conventional-looking gear lever.

For entertainment and information accessibility, this SUV features a 14-inch Electro Multi-Vision (EMV) touchscreen display that is equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and is linked to a 21-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System for the Premier trim. The Overtrail trim gets the standard 10-speaker Lexus Premium Sound System. In terms of convenience, the GX 550 model line also comes with six USB ports, a power outlet/accessory socket, as well as multiple cupholders and door pockets. The Premier trim also gets a power moonroof for a more aesthetic cabin feel.

In terms of design, the Premier trim flaunts modern, luxurious features, while the Overtrail trim gets more rugged elements, highlighted by its aluminum under guard and 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tyres. The Premier trim, on the other hand, is fitted with 22-inch aluminum wheels, which display a “clean cosmopolitan” look. At the front, both trims sport Lexus’ modified spindle grille and T-shaped 3-projector Bi-LED headlamps with sleek LED DRLs. This SUV also comes with LED fog lamps for enhanced visibility both on- and off-road.

Moreover, both trims flaunt a muscular side profile, enhanced by power-folding door mirrors with LED turn signal lamps and a puddle illumination function. For a more exclusive vibe, the Premier trim gets automatic side steps for easier ingress and egress. In contrast, the Overtrail trim gets the standard fixed-type steps. Additionally, the Overtrail trim’s two-tone exterior colour displays a floating roof-like architecture on the road.

At the back, both trims feature a hypermodern-looking LED tail light strip spanning across the entire width of the car. Both trims also come with rear LED fog lamps, while the Overtrail trim gets a rugged two-toned rear bumper with aluminum accents. On top, the more off-road-ready trim features bridge-type roof rails, while the Premier trim gets the conventional counterpart.

In terms of dimensions, the Premier trim measures 4,960 mm in length, 1,980 mm in width, and 1,865 mm in height. Meanwhile, the Overtrail trim measures 4,970 mm in length, 2,000 mm in width, and 1,870 mm in height. Both trims, however, have a wheelbase of 2,850 mm.

In terms of suspension, the Premier trim gets a Double Wishbone at the front and a Rigid Axle-Type Trailing-Link with a stabilizer bar at the rear. On the other hand, the Overtrail trim features Lexus’ Electronic-Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS). That said, both trims are capable of delivering a supple and very dynamic riding experience both on- and off-road. However, for more severe off-road terrain conditions, the Overtrail’s suspension setup has the upper hand.

The Lexus GX 550 model line is powered by a 3.5L four-cam, 24-valve, V6 engine that delivers 349 hp of maximum power and 650 Nm of maximum torque. Both trims come mated to a direct-shift 10-speed automatic transmission system and utilize a full-time four-wheel drivetrain. Both trims also offer multiple drive modes, while the Overtrail trim comes with a multi-terrain select feature.

Both trims deliver powerful performance on- and off-road. Its engine offers plenty of torque on tap for steep provincial inclines and quick overtakes on free-flowing highways. If fuel economy is a priority for you, this model is probably not the best choice. To fully enjoy this SUV, you have to take it on long, open roads or uncrowded rural trails. 

In terms of safety, the GX 550 model line features Lexus Safety System. This comprehensive ADAS suite includes a pre-collision system, dynamic radar cruise control, lane tracing assist, lane departure alert, lane changing assist, road sign assist, a speed limiter, automatic high beam, safe exit assist, and a blind spot monitor, among others. Additionally, this SUV is equipped with a panoramic view monitor and a Lexus Parking Assist Monitor.

This SUV comes with front and rear ventilated disc brakes. Its braking setup is also supported by an anti-lock braking system with electronic brakeforce distribution, parking support brake, traction control system, vehicle stability control, hill-start assist control, downhill assist control (exclusive to Overtrail trim), trailer sway control, crawl control, and a brake assist system.

In my opinion, the Lexus GX 550 model line can be considered a jack of all trades. It is future-ready (feature-wise), capable both on- and off-road, and luxurious inside and out. That said, it is a compelling option for discerning buyers looking for a versatile luxury SUV.