2025 Lexus GX

The 2025 Lexus GX represents a bold leap forward for Lexus as it tries to straddle the straddled the line between luxury and off-road capability. Now riding on Toyota's TNGA-F body-on-frame platform that is shared with the new Land Cruiser, the GX finally sheds its aging underpinnings for a thoroughly modern architecture. The redesign brings squared-off edges, a commanding stance, and a more aggressive front. Seating configurations include two-row and three-row layouts, with seven-passenger capacity available. The GX competes in a unique niche, facing off against the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Land Rover Defender 130 and Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon.

Under the hood, every 2025 GX is powered by a 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6 producing 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Full-time four-wheel drive is standard across all trims. Towing capacity reaches 8,000 pounds. Trim levels include Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+, Overtrail, and Overtrail+. The Overtrail variants are purpose-built for off-road enthusiasts, featuring a 1.0-inch suspension lift, 33-inch all-terrain tires, and an electronic locking rear differential. No hybrid or electric variants are offered for 2025, though Lexus has hinted at future electrification.

Pricing starts at $64,735 for the base Premium trim and climbs to over $81,000 for the fully loaded Overtrail+ and Luxury+ models. Standard equipment includes a 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated front seats, and Lexus Safety System+ 3.0. Optional upgrades include a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, ventilated second-row seats, and a digital rearview mirror. The Overtrail trims also feature off-road cameras and prewired auxiliary switches. While the GX is well-equipped, some rivals offer more advanced tech and better fuel economy for similar money.

Engine Performance - The 2025 GX's sole powertrain is a revelation compared to the outgoing naturally aspirated V8. With 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, it delivers robust acceleration and confident passing power. The 10-speed automatic transmission, on the other hand, is not. It's clunky when shifting between gears at low speeds and will hunt quite a on the highway with a full passenger load. Lexus claims a 0-60 mph time of 6.5 seconds, a significant improvement over the previous generation's 7.8 seconds. The torque-rich delivery should make towing and off-road crawling effortless.

Fuel Economy - The GX's twin-turbo V6 is more efficient than the outgoing V8, but it's still a thirsty beast when saddled with a vehicle the size and shape of the LX. EPA estimates come in at 15 mpg city / 20 mpg highway / 17 mpg combined. Fuel type is premium unleaded, and the GX features a 21.1-gallon fuel tank, yielding a highway range of approximately 400 miles. Real-world fuel economy hovers closer to 16 mpg combined, especially in Overtrail trims with off-road tires and added weight. While respectable for a body-on-frame SUV, these numbers lag behind unibody competitors like the Jeep Grand Cherokee, which offer hybrid options and better efficiency.

All-Wheel Drive and Off-Road Features - Every GX comes with full-time four-wheel drive and a Torsen limited-slip center differential. The Overtrail and Overtrail+ trims add serious off-road hardware: an electronic locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select with six drive modes (Mud, Sand, Rock, Dirt, Snow, and Auto), Crawl Control, Downhill Assist Control, and a 1.0-inch suspension lift. These models also include underbody skid plates, off-road cameras, and 33-inch all-terrain tires. The GX's off-road capability rivals vehicles like the Land Rover Defender and even the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk in rugged terrain.

Ride Quality - Ride quality in the 2025 GX varies by trim. Premium and Luxury models offer a firm but composed ride, with the body-on-frame platform absorbing large impacts well but transmitting some road texture. The Overtrail trims ride slightly stiffer due to the all-terrain tires and lifted suspension, but they remain comfortable for daily driving. Adaptive dampers on Luxury+ trims help smooth out highway undulations and improve body control. Overall, the GX feels more refined than its predecessor, though it doesn't match the plushness of air-sprung rivals like the Land Rover Defender.

Handling - Handling is predictable but far from sporty. The steering is over boosted but accurate, with decent on-center feel, and lacks the feedback of more performance-oriented SUVs. Body roll is present in corners, especially in taller Overtrail trims, but well-managed thanks to the new platform's improved rigidity. Braking performance is solid, with a firm pedal feel and good modulation. The GX is best suited for confident highway cruising and off-road excursions rather than spirited driving.

Interior Noise - The cabin of the 2025 GX is impressively quiet, especially in Luxury trims with acoustic glass and extra insulation. Wind and road noise are well-muted, even at highway speeds. Overtrail models introduce more tire noise due to the aggressive tread pattern, but it's not intrusive. Compared to competitors, the GX ranks near the top for noise suppression.

Interior Design and Materials - Inside, the GX blends rugged utility with Lexus luxury. The dashboard features a horizontal layout with a 14-inch touchscreen and available head-up display, physical climate controls, and a mix of soft-touch materials and metallic accents. Premium and Luxury trims offer semi-aniline leather, open-pore wood, and ambient lighting. Overtrail models use synthetic leather and textured trim designed to withstand mud and moisture. The overall design is functional and upscale, with a clear emphasis on durability and comfort.

Interior Functionality - Controls are intuitive and well-placed. The touchscreen is responsive, and Lexus wisely retained physical knobs for volume and climate settings. The shifter is traditional, and drive mode selectors are easy to reach. Storage is generous, with a large center console, dual gloveboxes, and deep door pockets. Wireless charging, multiple USB-C ports, and a household-style AC outlet add convenience. Overall, the GX's interior is a masterclass in blending analog simplicity with modern tech.

Technology and Safety - Tech features include a 14-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital instrument cluster, and optional head-up display. The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. Overtrail trims add off-road cameras and auxiliary switch wiring. The Mark Levinson 21-speaker audio system is a standout option, delivering concert-quality sound. While not as tech-heavy as some rivals, the GX offers everything most buyers need.

Seating - Seating configurations include two-row (five-passenger) and three-row (seven-passenger) layouts. Front seats are spacious and supportive, with heating and ventilation standard. Second-row captain's chairs are available, offering excellent comfort and legroom. The third row is tight for adults but usable for kids. Entry and exit are easy thanks to wide-opening doors and a tall roofline. Access to the third row is improved with sliding second-row seats, though not as seamless as some unibody SUVs.

Cargo Capacity - Cargo space is generous for a body-on-frame SUV. Behind the third row, you get 11.3 cubic feet; fold the third row and that expands to 46.7 cubic feet. With all seats folded, the GX offers up to 91.5 cubic feet of cargo space. Lexus also ditched the side opening rear door for a traditional tailgate. Interior storage includes a large center console, dual gloveboxes, and multiple USB-C ports. An AC outlet is available in the cargo area for powering tools or camping gear.

Bottom Line - The 2025 Lexus GX is a compelling blend of rugged capability and luxury refinement. Its strengths include a powerful twin-turbo V6, serious off-road hardware, a quiet and upscale cabin, and generous towing capacity. Weaknesses include balky transmission performance, below-average fuel economy, and limited third-row space. Unique features like the Overtrail trim and off-road cameras set it apart from more pavement-focused rivals. 

For most buyers, the Premium+ trim offers the best value, combining luxury features like ventilated seats and upgraded tech with a price under $70,000. Off-roaders should look to the Overtrail, while luxury seekers may prefer the fully loaded Luxury+.