2026 Lexus GX 550 Luxury Plus Review
If you are looking for a luxury SUV that focuses on comfort, long-term reliability, and real off-road capability, the Lexus GX remains one of the strongest choices from Japan. The name first appeared in 2003, built on a sturdy body-on-frame platform shared with the Toyota Land Cruiser. A year and a half ago, Lexus completely redesigned the GX from the ground up. The latest third generation introduced a new frame, a new design, a new powertrain, and updated technology inside the cabin.
Two years later, Lexus has kept the 2026 GX almost unchanged. The model tested here is the 2026 GX 550 Luxury Plus, which sits near the top of the lineup. The question many buyers have is simple. Does the GX still deliver ultimate comfort and capability in a modern luxury SUV? Here is a complete breakdown.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the GX gets a unique engine compared to the Land Cruiser and 4Runner. Lexus continues to use its 3.4 litre twin turbocharged V6, a longitudinally mounted engine with direct and port injection.
Key Engine Highlights
3.4 litre twin turbo V6
349 horsepower
479 pound feet of torque
10 speed Lexus designed automatic transmission
Full time four wheel drive
Low range transfer case
Locking centre differential
Available locking rear differential on the Overtrail model
This engine originally debuted on the LS500 sedan in 2018 and later moved into Toyota trucks. Power is a major improvement compared to the old 4.6 litre V8 that produced 301 horsepower.
Fuel Economy
15 mpg city
21 mpg highway
17 mpg combined
21.1 gallon tank
Around 350 miles of driving range on premium fuel
Performance and Capability
0 to 60 mph in about 6.5 seconds
Top speed around 109 mph
Maximum towing: 9,000 pounds
Towing capacity on Luxury Plus: 7,600 pounds
Curb weight: around 5,700 pounds
If you pick the Overtrail trim, the SUV becomes about 200 pounds lighter because it deletes the third row.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
The new generation GX has a strong, upright design that immediately identifies it as a GX. Lexus updated all the panels, sharpened the body lines, and incorporated modern lighting while keeping the boxy, capable look intact.
Front Design
Bold spindle grille finished in matte black
Triple beam LED headlights
LED daytime running lights
LED turn signals
LED fog lights and cornering lights
Front parking sensors
Front camera integrated into the Lexus badge
Skid plates under the bumper
Bash plate included even on Luxury Plus
The grille is now positioned higher and more upright. The bulging fender lines and strong hood design give the driver a clear sense of capability from behind the wheel.
Side Profile
The GX rides on Toyota’s latest TGAF body-on-frame architecture. It shares its foundations with the Land Cruiser 250 and the new 4Runner.
Important dimensions
| Measurement | 2026 Lexus GX 550 |
|---|---|
| Length | 197.1 inches |
| Wheelbase | 112.2 inches |
| Width | 78 inches |
| Ground clearance | 8.7 inches (Luxury Plus) |
| Ground clearance (Overtrail) | 9.8 inches |
The Luxury Plus includes the largest wheels offered on the GX.
Side Features
22 inch multi spoke alloy wheels
6 lug wheel design
Adaptive variable suspension
Independent front suspension
Live rear axle
Full body colour painted cladding
Gloss black side sill finish
Power retractable running boards
Upright windshield inspired by older Land Cruisers
Roof rails (accessory)
Panoramic glass roof with electrochromatic frosting feature
The panoramic roof on the Luxury Plus cannot open; it only frosts and clears electronically.
Rear Design
The rear styling connects the GX with the Land Cruiser, offering a clean vertical structure and a modern LED light bar.
Rear Highlights
Full width LED light bar
Lexus lettering at the centre
GX 550 badge
Glossy graphite grey bumper elements
Hidden exhaust
Full size spare tire underneath
Top mounted power liftgate
Flip-up rear glass
Roof spoiler
Lexus finally replaced the old swing-out tailgate with a more practical liftgate. The only weak point is the removable plastic piece covering the trailer hitch, which looks less refined.
Interior
Stepping inside the luxury-focused trims of the GX reveals one of the softest and most comfortable cabins in the segment. Lexus gives the Luxury Plus a full semi-aniline leather interior. The seats and materials stand out immediately.
Interior Highlights
Semi aniline full leather upholstery
Saddle tan interior on this test vehicle
14 way adjustable front seats
Heated and ventilated front seats
Massage function for both front seats
Mark Levinson 21 speaker premium sound system
Digital key support
Traditional mechanical door handles
Power retractable running boards
High quality metal accented window controls
The interior build quality is excellent in most areas. The only weaker points are the hard plastics on the lower door panel and some trim that could have used more wood.
Dashboard and Controls
Solid sounding door shut
No soft close doors
Start button positioned high on the dashboard
Modern Lexus infotainment with updated software
Large centre touchscreen
Physical buttons for climate controls
Comfortable armrests and wide centre console
Comfort and Seating
The Luxury Plus trim is focused on passenger comfort. The front seats offer excellent cushioning and softness, while the cabin insulation keeps noise levels low.
Front Seats
Thick padding
Very plush support
Ventilation and massage functions
Wide range of adjustments
Second Row
This model features captain’s chairs, reducing seating capacity to six but improving comfort for middle row passengers.
Third Row
The GX does offer a third row, but space is extremely limited.
Cargo space
Cargo room is the biggest downside of the three row GX.
| Configuration | Cargo Volume |
|---|---|
| With 3rd row up | 10.3 cubic feet |
| With 3rd row folded | Around 40 cubic feet |
| Maximum (2nd and 3rd rows down) | 76.9 cubic feet |
| Overtrail (no 3rd row) | 45 cubic feet with 2nd row up or up to 90 cubic feet total |
With the third row up, fitting even a backpack becomes a challenge. The underfloor storage area is also small but can hold tools and the jack.
The third row folds down electrically, but you must hold the button until the process completes. The floor area is flat because the GX is not a hybrid, which makes the cargo room more usable when the third row is folded.
Driving Experience
The GX continues to be smooth, quiet, and heavy. The twin turbo V6 feels strong at low speeds and on the highway, delivering linear power. The 10 speed automatic shifts smoothly and the full time four wheel drive offers confidence on rough surfaces.
Driving Characteristics
Smooth and refined engine
Excellent noise insulation
Heavy but stable body feel
Improved ride comfort with adaptive suspension
Clear forward visibility due to upright windshield
Large size and weight noticeable in tight city spaces
If maximum off road capability is important, the Overtrail trim remains the best fit with all terrain tyres, more ground clearance, and extra skid plates.
Verdict
The 2026 Lexus GX 550 Luxury Plus remains one of the most comfortable and capable body-on-frame luxury SUVs available. It gives buyers a unique combination of luxury, off-road strength, and long-term reliability. The new design is bold and instantly recognisable. The interior is plush, the engine is powerful, and the technology feels modern.
Its main weaknesses are the cramped third row and the extremely limited cargo space when all seats are in use. Ride quality on the 22 inch wheels can also feel firm on rough roads.
For buyers who want a tough luxury SUV with a premium feel and proven durability, the GX continues to represent some of the best engineering from Japan.
Lexus GX 550 Luxury Plus FAQ
What engine does the 2026 Lexus GX 550 use?
The 2026 Lexus GX 550 comes with a 3.4 liter twin turbocharged V6. It produces 349 horsepower and 479 pound feet of torque. It uses both direct and port injection and is paired with a Lexus designed 10 speed automatic transmission. This is a major upgrade compared to the older 4.6 liter V8.
Is the Lexus GX 550 good for off road driving?
Yes. Every GX comes with full time four wheel drive, a low range transfer case, and a locking center differential. The Overtrail trim adds a locking rear differential and extra skid plates. Ground clearance is around 8.7 inches on regular models and around 9.8 inches on the Overtrail.
What is the fuel economy of the 2026 Lexus GX 550?
The GX 550 is rated at 15 mpg in the city, 21 mpg on the highway, and about 17 mpg combined. It has a 21.1 gallon fuel tank and can cover around 350 miles on a full tank of premium fuel.
How fast is the Lexus GX 550?
Lexus claims a 0 to 60 mph time of around 6.5 seconds. The top speed is about 109 mph. The strong torque from the twin turbo V6 gives it smooth and effortless acceleration.
How much can the GX 550 tow?
The maximum towing capacity is up to 9,000 pounds on certain trims. The Luxury Plus model is rated at around 7,600 pounds. A factory trailer hitch and connectors are available, and the vehicle includes a full size spare tire for extra confidence during long trips.
Has the exterior design changed for the 2026 model?
No major changes were made to the exterior for 2026. The GX still carries its bold spindle grille, triple beam LED headlights, tall and boxy body lines, and a modern LED light bar at the rear. The Luxury Plus trim also offers 22 inch wheels and a panoramic glass roof.
What is the interior like in the GX 550 Luxury Plus?
The cabin offers semi aniline full leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a massage function for the front seats. You also get a 21 speaker Mark Levinson audio system and Lexus' latest infotainment setup. The build quality is premium, and the seating support is very comfortable.
How spacious is the third row and cargo area?
The third row is available on most trims but space is limited. With the third row up, cargo capacity is only around 10.3 cubic feet. Folding the third row increases space to around 40 cubic feet. The Overtrail trim, which removes the third row, offers up to 90 cubic feet with seats folded.
Does the GX 550 still feel like a traditional body on frame SUV?
Yes. It continues to use Toyota’s TNGA F body on frame platform, shared with the new Land Cruiser and 4Runner. The upright windshield, visible fender peaks, and sturdy stance keep the classic SUV character alive while improving refinement and ride comfort.
What makes the GX 550 different from the Land Cruiser and 4Runner?
The GX gets a unique twin turbo V6, a more premium interior, and features like massage seats and a high end Mark Levinson audio system. It is positioned as a more luxurious alternative while still sharing the same durable platform as the Toyota models.
