Hey guys! Ready to dive deep into the 2023 Lexus GX 550? This SUV is making waves, and for good reason. It's got the Lexus luxury we all love, but with a serious off-road attitude. This review will cover everything you need to know, from its rugged capabilities to its plush interior and everything in between. We'll explore if this new GX is the perfect blend of adventure and comfort, or if it leans too far in one direction. Get ready for a thorough breakdown, so you can decide if the 2023 Lexus GX 550 is the right ride for you. Let's get started!

Overview: What's New and Why It Matters

Alright, let's kick things off with a quick look at what's new for the 2023 Lexus GX 550. This isn't just a facelift; it's a completely redesigned model, which means major changes are in store. The old GX was known for its reliability and off-road prowess, but it felt a bit dated in terms of tech and interior design. Lexus clearly heard the feedback and went back to the drawing board. The 2023 GX 550 boasts a fresh design, a more powerful engine, and a significantly upgraded interior packed with the latest technology. It's built on a new platform, sharing some components with the new Toyota Land Cruiser, which is great news for its off-road chops.

So why does this matter? Well, for those who value both luxury and adventure, the GX 550 is aiming to be the ultimate package. It's designed for those who want to tackle tough trails during the weekend but still enjoy a comfortable and refined experience during the daily commute. The updates also address the previous model's shortcomings, making the 2023 GX 550 more competitive in a market filled with impressive SUVs. We are talking about the Land Rover Defender, the BMW X5 and the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The new design is more modern and aggressive, reflecting its enhanced capabilities. Under the hood, a new twin-turbo V6 engine replaces the old V8, promising more power and better fuel efficiency. Inside, you'll find a redesigned cabin with a larger infotainment screen, premium materials, and a host of advanced driver-assistance features. In short, Lexus has raised the bar, and the 2023 GX 550 is ready to take on the competition.

Now, let's explore this amazing car in more detail. We'll break down the design, performance, interior, and tech. Get ready for an in-depth look at what makes the 2023 Lexus GX 550 such a compelling choice in the luxury SUV segment.

Design and Exterior: A Rugged and Refined Look

Let's talk about the design of the 2023 Lexus GX 550. The first thing you'll notice is the bold, aggressive styling. Lexus has clearly aimed for a more rugged and commanding presence, moving away from the more conservative look of the previous generation. The front end features a prominent, updated spindle grille, flanked by sleek LED headlights. It gives the GX 550 a strong, imposing stance on the road. The overall design incorporates more straight lines and angular surfaces, reinforcing its off-road capabilities. It's a noticeable departure from the softer curves of its predecessor and a clear indication that this SUV means business. The GX 550 is available in several trim levels, each with its own unique design cues. For example, the Overtrail trim features unique design elements such as blacked-out trim, off-road wheels, and more aggressive bumpers. This adds to the rugged aesthetic. The other trims get their own set of stylish wheels and design details, giving each model a unique personality.

From the side, the GX 550 maintains a boxy, upright profile, which is perfect for maximizing interior space and providing excellent ground clearance. The rear of the vehicle continues the theme with stylish LED taillights and a tailgate design that enhances both functionality and aesthetics. The attention to detail is evident in the choice of materials and the quality of the finish. The body panels fit tightly, and the paintwork is flawless. This shows that Lexus didn't sacrifice any quality, even in a vehicle designed to take on tough terrains. Overall, the exterior design of the 2023 Lexus GX 550 is a significant step forward. It successfully blends ruggedness with refinement. It's a statement of style and capability, ready to turn heads both on and off the beaten path. This is a car that is built to stand out, and it makes a strong visual impression.

Performance and Capability: Ready for Anything

Alright, let's get into the heart of the matter: the performance and capability of the 2023 Lexus GX 550. Under the hood, you will find a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine, replacing the old V8. This new engine produces a substantial 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The engine is coupled with a 10-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive power delivery. This engine is not only more powerful than its predecessor but is also more efficient. The fuel economy is a noticeable improvement, making the GX 550 a more practical choice for daily driving. It still has the legendary Lexus smoothness, and the acceleration is brisk.

Where the GX 550 truly shines is in its off-road capabilities. Built on a robust body-on-frame platform, the GX 550 is designed to tackle tough terrain. The vehicle offers a full-time four-wheel-drive system with a low-range transfer case, providing maximum traction in challenging conditions. The Overtrail trim, in particular, gets additional off-road goodies, including an electronic locking rear differential, a multi-terrain select system, and a crawl control feature. These features allow you to customize the vehicle's performance to match the specific terrain. Whether you're navigating rocky trails, sandy dunes, or muddy tracks, the GX 550 is equipped to handle it. The suspension is also designed for off-road use, with a high ride height and generous wheel travel, enhancing both ride comfort and off-road articulation. The GX 550 feels incredibly stable and confident when tackling difficult trails. It is a true off-roader at heart, built for adventure. The GX 550 is a blend of power, capability, and refinement. It's an SUV that's ready for any adventure. If you are looking for an SUV that can handle both the daily commute and the occasional off-road excursion, the 2023 Lexus GX 550 should be on your list.

Interior and Technology: Luxury Meets Modernity

Now, let's explore the interior and technology of the 2023 Lexus GX 550. Stepping inside, you're immediately greeted by the familiar Lexus blend of luxury and refinement. The cabin is spacious, well-appointed, and filled with premium materials. You'll find soft-touch surfaces, real wood or aluminum trim, and carefully stitched leather upholstery, depending on the trim level. The design is modern, with a focus on both aesthetics and functionality. The dashboard features a large touchscreen infotainment display, which is the command center for many of the vehicle's features. The infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, with crisp graphics and easy-to-use controls. The 2023 GX 550 is also equipped with a digital instrument cluster, providing key information at a glance.

The front seats are comfortable and supportive, with plenty of adjustment options to find your perfect driving position. The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom, making them suitable for adults on longer journeys. The GX 550 is available in various seating configurations. Some models feature a third-row seat, which increases the passenger capacity to seven. The third-row seats are best suited for children, as they have limited legroom. The GX 550 has a long list of technology and convenience features. Standard equipment includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a premium sound system, a wireless charging pad, and multiple USB ports. It is also available with advanced driver-assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. These systems enhance safety and make the driving experience more convenient. Overall, the interior of the 2023 Lexus GX 550 is a testament to Lexus's commitment to luxury and modernity. It provides a comfortable, well-equipped, and technologically advanced environment, perfect for both daily commutes and long road trips. The GX 550 proves that you can have a vehicle that is both capable off-road and luxurious inside.

Trim Levels and Pricing: Finding the Right Fit

Let's talk about the trim levels and pricing of the 2023 Lexus GX 550. The GX 550 is offered in several trim levels, each designed to cater to different needs and preferences. Pricing starts at around $64,250 for the base Premium trim and can go up to $79,250 for the range-topping Luxury+ trim. It is important to note that these prices can vary depending on the options and packages you choose. The Premium trim offers a well-equipped base model with features like a 10-inch touchscreen, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Moving up to the Premium+ trim adds features such as a panoramic view monitor, a hands-free power liftgate, and upgraded interior trim. The Overtrail trim is designed for off-road enthusiasts and includes features like an electronic locking rear differential, a multi-terrain select system, and unique styling elements. The Luxury trim offers a more luxurious experience with features like a Mark Levinson premium sound system, semi-aniline leather seats, and a head-up display.

The range-topping Luxury+ trim includes additional features such as massaging front seats and a premium interior trim. Each trim level has its own unique features and options, so it's important to consider your specific needs and budget when choosing. If you prioritize off-road capability, the Overtrail trim is an excellent choice. If you value luxury and comfort, the Luxury or Luxury+ trims might be more suitable. Regardless of the trim level you choose, the 2023 Lexus GX 550 offers a high level of quality, performance, and features. The GX 550 provides something for everyone, ensuring there is a model to suit your lifestyle and budget. The trim levels also give you a way to customize your driving experience, ensuring you get everything you need from your SUV.

Driving Experience: On and Off the Road

Let's discuss the driving experience of the 2023 Lexus GX 550, both on and off the road. On the pavement, the GX 550 offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. The suspension effectively absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road. It provides a smooth ride, even on rough surfaces. The steering is light and precise, making the vehicle easy to maneuver in city driving and parking situations. The new twin-turbo V6 engine provides plenty of power for acceleration and highway cruising. The 10-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, contributing to the overall driving experience. The GX 550 also boasts good sound insulation, which reduces road and wind noise, creating a quiet and relaxing cabin environment.

Off the road, the GX 550 truly shines. The full-time four-wheel-drive system, combined with the low-range transfer case and various off-road features, allows the vehicle to tackle challenging terrain with ease. The Overtrail trim enhances off-road capabilities even further, with features such as an electronic locking rear differential and a multi-terrain select system. The GX 550 can confidently navigate rocky trails, sandy dunes, and muddy tracks. The vehicle provides excellent ground clearance and impressive approach, departure, and breakover angles, allowing it to clear obstacles without difficulty. The GX 550's off-road performance is a major selling point. It makes the GX 550 a versatile SUV. It is ideal for those who enjoy both on-road comfort and off-road adventure. The GX 550 is a pleasure to drive. It combines on-road refinement with off-road prowess. It offers a well-rounded driving experience that caters to a wide range of needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options

Alright, let's take a look at the pros and cons of the 2023 Lexus GX 550 to help you make an informed decision.

Pros:

• Exceptional Off-Road Capability: The GX 550 is a serious off-roader, thanks to its robust body-on-frame platform, full-time four-wheel drive, and available off-road features. It can tackle challenging terrain with ease, making it a great choice for adventure enthusiasts.
• Luxurious Interior: The GX 550 offers a premium interior with high-quality materials, comfortable seating, and a range of advanced features. The cabin is well-appointed and provides a refined and comfortable environment for both driver and passengers.
• Powerful and Efficient Engine: The new twin-turbo V6 engine provides plenty of power and torque, and it is more fuel-efficient than the previous V8 engine. This makes the GX 550 a more practical choice for daily driving.
• Advanced Technology: The GX 550 is equipped with a range of advanced technology features, including a large touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, and a host of driver-assistance systems. These features enhance both convenience and safety.
• Stylish Design: The GX 550 features a bold and aggressive exterior design, with a rugged yet refined appearance. The design is a significant step forward from the previous generation and reflects the vehicle's enhanced capabilities.

Cons:

• Higher Price: The GX 550 is positioned in the luxury SUV segment, and the price is relatively high compared to some of its competitors. The cost can be a barrier for some buyers.
• Fuel Economy: While the new engine is more efficient than the previous V8, the GX 550's fuel economy is still not as high as some other SUVs in its class.
• Third-Row Seating: The third-row seating is only available on some models, and the third-row seats are best suited for children.
• Size and Maneuverability: The GX 550 is a large SUV, which can make it more challenging to maneuver in tight spaces and city driving.

Conclusion: Is the 2023 Lexus GX 550 Worth It?

So, is the 2023 Lexus GX 550 worth it? The answer depends on your priorities and needs. If you're looking for an SUV that combines luxury, capability, and performance, the GX 550 is a strong contender. It excels in many areas. It is particularly appealing to those who enjoy off-road adventures. If you value a comfortable and well-appointed interior, the GX 550 delivers. The advanced technology and stylish design add to its appeal. However, the higher price and potential fuel economy might be a drawback for some buyers. If budget is a major concern, or if you primarily drive in the city, there may be more affordable or fuel-efficient options available. Overall, the 2023 Lexus GX 550 is an impressive SUV that delivers on its promise of luxury and capability. It is a well-rounded vehicle that is sure to please those who seek both adventure and refinement in their driving experience. If you are in the market for a luxury SUV that can handle both the daily commute and the occasional off-road excursion, the 2023 Lexus GX 550 is definitely worth considering. It is a testament to Lexus's commitment to quality, performance, and innovation.

Thanks for reading, guys! Hope this review gave you a good look at the 2023 Lexus GX 550. Happy driving!