LEXUS GX550

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Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4xe

The difference in size is more noticeable than the specs

The Lexus GX was developed based on the GA-F ladder frame platform as a full-fledged off-road vehicle with a luxurious feel worthy of the Lexus name. Following its pre-sale last year, the GX550 has now been introduced to the Japanese market. Meanwhile, the Wrangler, whose first generation debuted in 1987, saw its current fourth-generation model released in 2018. The Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4xe, a four-door Unlimited model equipped with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, has been on sale in Japan since December 2022.

Both vehicles boast serious off-road performance, but the GX is slightly larger, measuring 90mm in length, 50mm in width, and 65mm in height. The Wrangler features traditional overfenders, making the difference in class even more apparent. The Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4xe is equipped with a lithium-ion battery, but the larger GX550 is 160kg heavier.

Lexus GX550 “version L”

Body size = Length 4960mm x Width 1980mm x Height 1920mm

Wheelbase = 2850mm

Vehicle weight = 2510kg

Tire size = 265/65R18

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4xe

Body size = Length 4870mm x Width 1930mm x Height 1855mm

Wheelbase = 3010mm

Vehicle weight = 2350kg

Tire size = 255/75R17

Jeep’s proud PHEV powertrain “4xe”

The Lexus GX550 is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 twin-turbo gasoline engine that produces a maximum output of 353 PS and a maximum torque of 650 Nm. This engine boasts excellent drivability, making the most of its powerful torque in all driving conditions, whether in urban areas or off-road.

In contrast, the Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4xe is equipped with a plug-in hybrid powertrain called “4xe,” which combines a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbo with two electric motors and a lithium-ion battery. It is possible to switch between hybrid mode and EV mode depending on the driving range, and a range of 42km is secured in EV mode. Until the hybrid model is added to the GX, the Wrangler wins in terms of economy.

Lexus GX550 “version L”

Engine type = V6 gasoline twin turbo

Displacement = 3444cc

Maximum output = 353PS / 4800-5200rpm

Maximum torque = 650Nm / 2000-3600rpm

Transmission = 10-speed AT

Drive system = AWD

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4xe

Engine type = Inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbo + electric motor

Displacement = 1995cc

Maximum output = 272PS / 5250rpm

Maximum torque = 400Nm / 3000rpm

Motor output = 145PS

Motor torque = 255Nm

EV mode range = 42km

Transmission = 8-speed AT

Drive system = AWD

Defenders offer a wide range of options

The GX550 features a modern cockpit that combines a 12.3-inch full LCD meter and a 14-inch multi-information display, as well as high-quality seats and trim that are typical of Lexus.

The interior of the Wrangler retains the rugged atmosphere of a Jeep, making use of the body panels, and the meters are analog, which are becoming rare these days. However, a 12.3-inch touch panel monitor with the latest infotainment system, “UNCONNECT 5,” is installed as standard.

The top-of-the-line Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4xe is priced at 2.4 million yen less than the GX550, which is one class higher in terms of size and equipment. While both offer excellent off-road capabilities, they are polar opposites. The high-quality luxury and comfort of Lexus, or the unique atmosphere that Jeep boasts. Which one you choose depends on your sympathy for the brand.

Vehicle price

Lexus GX550 “version L” 12.7 million yen

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4xe 10.3 million yen

Related reading

Lexus GX550 now available in Japan with two grades, including a seven-passenger model [Video]

Lexus officially began selling the GX550 at Lexus dealerships nationwide from April 3, 2025. In addition to the GX550 OVERTRAIL+, which was sold by lottery in advance, a new seven-seater version L has been introduced for the Japanese market.