Lexus GX550 “OVERTRAIL+”

Comfortable on-road performance

It uses the same GA-F platform as the flagship LX model, and the adoption of an electronically controlled stabilizer makes it an attractive vehicle with a comfortable ride.

The GX is positioned as the heaviest-duty off-roader model in the Lexus SUV lineup. It was introduced in Japan last year as a limited edition, but it has actually been on sale in North America, the Middle East, Australia, and other countries for over 20 years, and this new model is the third generation globally.

The chassis format is the same ladder frame GA-F as the flagship LX, but the GX combines comfort and off-road capability with coil suspension and an electronically controlled variable stabilizer. In contrast, the LX uses a suspension system that controls stroke using hydraulics and air and also allows for vehicle height adjustment, which clearly differentiates the ride feel. The suspension format is the same for both models, with double wishbones in the front and trailing links in the rear.

A good impression of the torquey engine

A 3.5-liter V6 twin-turbo engine produces 353 PS/650 Nm. The D-4ST with multi-hole direct injectors provides excellent response. — [1]

The highlight of the GX550 is its impressive exterior design with wide, protruding tires and wheel flares. — [1]

The new GX is also equipped with the same 3.5-liter V6 twin-turbo engine as the LX. However, it is more suited to off-road use, with a smaller diameter turbine used to emphasize better torque. The drivetrain is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission with an auxiliary gearbox, and the vehicle we tested, the Overtrail, is the most off-road-oriented grade, so it has three differential locks: a center one and front and rear ones.

The new GX’s dimensions are close to those of the Land Cruiser 300, which shares a similar platform. Compared to the LX, its overall length of just under 5m is noteworthy from a practical standpoint, but there may be times when the overall width of nearly 2m becomes a problem. However, as a full-fledged off-roader, the shape has been designed with direct visibility in mind, so the vehicle’s visibility is very good and it is surprisingly stress-free even on narrow roads.

Horizontally-oriented cockpit

The simple design, with horizontal and vertical emphasis, allows the driver to accurately sense the vehicle's position when driving off-road. The seat back and side backs are made of soft materials for comfort. — [3]

The new GX is available in both two-row and three-row seating layouts depending on the grade, but the vehicle used for the review has two rows of seats. The cabin is spacious, so it’s safe to expect the three-row seating to be about as comfortable as a small minivan. Although it’s the most off-road-oriented model and the grade best suited to rough roads, Lexus has paid particular attention to the quality of the interior.

The engine has plenty of power, but what’s impressive is how responsive it is even at extremely low speeds. There’s no turbo lag and it’s easy to make minute adjustments from walking speeds, making it a setup that’s designed with flexibility in mind, just like an off-roader.

The striking rear style is also attractive.

This time, we test drove the model that was released last year in a limited run of 100 units. It is scheduled to go on sale soon, so if you're interested, be sure to check it out! — This time, we test drove the model that was released last year in a limited run of 100 units. It is scheduled to go on sale soon, so if you’re interested, be sure to check it out!

While the on-road ride quality is not as good as the LX, the suspension is designed for rough roads, and the flat ride and integrated steering response show the refinement you expect from Lexus. Its rivals are the G-Class and Defender, but its unique design and the robust ride feel that only a ladder frame can offer are sure to make it stand out. It’s rumored that regular sales will begin in the Japanese market soon, making it a car worth keeping an eye on.

REPORT / Toshifumi Watanabe

PHOTO / Toyota Motor Corporation

MAGAZINE / GENROQ May 2025 issue

SPECIFICATIONS

Lexus GX550 “OVERTRAIL+”

Body size: Length 4970, Width 2000, Height 1925mm

Wheelbase: 2850mm

Engine: V6 DOHC twin turbo

Total displacement: 3444cc

Maximum output: 260kW (353PS) / 4800-5200rpm

Maximum torque: 650Nm (66.3kgm) / 2000-3600rpm

Transmission: 10-speed AT

Drive system: AWD

Suspension type: Front double wishbone, rear trailing link

Brakes: Front and rear ventilated disc Tire

size: Front and rear 265/65R18

Vehicle price: 12.35 million yen