Our Thoughts Exactly: 2026 Lexus GX
For this latest turn in this capable luxury SUV, we found that there have been no dramatic changes made to it.
It’s been a couple of years since we got acquainted with the new generation Lexus GX. We applauded its off-road prowess and its commitment to delivering a luxurious experience. After all, it has become the darling of the overlanding set.
For this latest turn in this capable luxury SUV, we found that there have been no dramatic changes made to it. It does retain a lot of what makes the GX very attractive to upwardly mobile adventure seekers – especially one with families.
The only difference we’ve seen between the 2024 model we worked with and this one is the trim level. Looks like we got an upgrade from the Premium model to the Luxury one. A nicer model, indeed.
With that said, the 2026 GX continues with a presence that is dictated by its tall profile. The access inside is helped by a pair of running boards on this test vehicle. Doors open wide and the glass is large and deep to see out of. Our Luxury tester adds 21-inch alloy wheels to finish up the exterior’s look.
The cabin presents a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel that is fully customizable, as well as the head-up display. Lots of tactility for most of the switchgear
There is also the 14-inch infotainment touchscreen driven by the Lexus Interface system. Although it integrates some of the climate controls, the overall interactivity is quite good. The sound is provided by the Mark Levinson 21-speaker, 1,800-watt audio system.
The cabin itself offers a lot of space for adults to sit in the first two rows. The two-tone Semi-Aniline Leather trimmed seats are big and comfortable up front. Second row room is exceptional with plenty of height to see over the driver. In our test vehicle, we got captain’s chairs with a console in-between. However, the foldable third row seats offers limited space for small children.
You can leave the third row down and utilize the huge cargo hold. Also, you can open up the glass on the liftgate to access what’s back there. Ultimately, there is up to 76.9 cubic feet of cargo space with both the third and second rows folded down.
Power for the GX comes from a 349-horsepower twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 with 479 pound-feet of torque. It is a very smooth and powerful engine, capable of towing up to 9,041 pounds. A 10-speed automatic connects to the V8, sending power to all four wheels all the time through a TORSEN limited-slip differential.
Overall, engine and driveline performance is smooth. Highway driving and passing is done with authority. As for fuel economy, we observed an average of 17.8 MPG.
When it comes to driving manners, the ride felt smooth, civilized, and well dampened to handle all road conditions. Given the 21-inch wheels on this Luxury trim test vehicle, we did not venture off the tarmac. There is nominal roll and lean in the corners at speed while maintaining a level of stability that provides confidence in the driver and their passengers. .
The steering system is easy to use when working through tight maneuvers. It also exhibited excellent on-center feel with minimal play when going down the middle of the lane. Brakes are quite good, as is pedal feel. The 2026 GX returned great stops in both normal and panic situations.
The 2026 Lexus GX 550 offers three main trim levels to choose between: Premium, Luxury, and Overtrail. Each one has a “plus” package you can add to it. Pricing starts at $68,335. Our Luxury test vehicle came with a sticker price of $84,494.
The 2026 GX fills the demands of active lifestyle consumers with outdoorsy pursuits. That includes serious overlanders. It perfectly fit these target demographics – especially for the Overtrail model. The tall height, taller cabin space, and useful features are the main attractions to the 2026 GX.
What about this Luxury model? It’s 21-inch wheels speak to a more civilized lifestyle. That’s perfectly fine, too. There is a desire for a more capable looking and acting SUV that consumers also want. They may occasionally use their 2026 GX as intended.
No matter which kind of consumer takes home a 2026 Lexus GX, this luxury SUV has a mission n hand. To give its guests a vehicle an experience rooted with its originally intended purpose.
DISCLAIMER: Vehicle was provided by Toyota Motor North America. – our opinions are of our own.
All photos by Randy Stern