Sometimes, you need an SUV that feels like a luxury vehicle on a road trip. Other times, you want to leave civilization behind and take a 4×4 vehicle off road. It’s not always easy to find one that works in both situations, but the 2025 Lexus GX ticks all the boxes.
Debuting with an all-new body style in 2024, the Lexus GX features an attractive boxy shape and impressive capability both on- and off-road. Every Lexus GX is equipped with a turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 making 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, offering plenty of get-up-and-go for everything from smooth highways to rocky trails.
The GX has long been a favorite in the off-road community, and it doesn’t seem that will change any time soon. Take a look at my list of pros and cons below.
Lexus GX Pro: Trims For Luxury And Adventure
The Lexus GX is available in six trim levels: Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+, Overtrail, and Overtrail+. Those who don’t plan to stray from pavement will be fine with the first four options and can choose the best version for them depending on how many amenities they want. For instance, a heated steering wheel is standard on GX Premium+ and massaging chairs start at Luxury level.
Overtrail and Overtrail+ include all of the standard features on the Premium model, adding 18-inch wheels, a dynamic suspension system, off-road-focused drive modes, and a surround-view camera for safety on the trail. Plus–and this is important when you’re hauling gear–the third row is deleted for these two trims, freeing up cargo space in the rear. And it’s a significant difference: 45.6 cubic feet in Overtrail and Overtrail+ variants versus a minimalist 10.3 cubic feet in the trims that include three rows.
Lexus GX Pro: Luxurious And Streamlined Interior
Lexus designers do a spectacular job creating a vehicle that competes with the likes of the Infiniti QX80 and Land Rover Defender. One of my favorite available features is the “cool box” in the console that works like a small cooler to keep your drinks and snacks cold. It’s a great place for chocolate, too.
Heated and ventilated seats are standard even on the base GX, which is a nice touch. There’s a handy 120-volt household outlet in the cargo area for appliances or camping gear. Upgrade to the Luxury+ trim for truly premium amenities like an adjustable-tint glass sunroof and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.
Lexus GX Pro: Technology Is Intuitive And Current
Every GX has a 14-inch touchscreen with the newest infotainment technology available from the Toyota group. It was a big deal when Lexus replaced its glitchy touchpad with the new touchscreen in 2021, and I’ve been impressed with it ever since. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, and the climate controls are set up smartly at the bottom of the screen. I like the way the climate knobs are lit and large enough to turn easily.
Using the infotainment system is simple and not oversaturated with deep menu options.
Lexus GX Con: A Few Cabin Functionality Issues
The vents are maddeningly inflexible, which drove me crazy in the Texas heat. I wanted the air to blow right on my face to cool me off, and I couldn’t seem to get it just where I wanted it. Minor, but when you live in the South it’s an important distinction.
Lexus GX Con: Fuel Economy Is Middling
The GX is powered by an internal combustion engine that’s punchy and quick, and scaling mid-size rocky hills with no problems. It’s not known for its fuel economy, however. The EPA estimates the GX is good for 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway, not to mention that premium fuel is recommended. If a fuel-sipping vehicle is a priority for you, take a look at the four-cylinder-powered Toyota Land Cruiser instead.
Lexus GX Verdict: Definitely More Pros Than Cons
For 2025, the Lexus GX carries on as a stellar SUV for off- and on-road luxury. If you’re an adventurer, don’t think twice about choosing Overland or Overland+, and you won’t be disappointed.