The 2024 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail is a standout in the world of rugged luxury SUVs, and it’s quickly become one of our favorite vehicles in this class. It strikes a remarkable balance between off-road capability and everyday usability, offering the kind of luxury you’d expect from Lexus, without compromising its adventure-ready spirit. If you’re in the market for a vehicle that’s as capable on a mountain trail as it is on your daily commute, the GX 550 Overtrail is a vehicle you won’t want to overlook.
One of the most noticeable improvements in the 2024 GX 550 is its boxy, more muscular styling. This new generation embraces a rugged look that feels more purposeful and commanding on the road, with a modern edge that pays homage to the GX’s classic design. It’s clear that Lexus wants the GX to look as capable as it is, and this updated exterior design does exactly that.
When it comes to off-road performance, the GX 550 Overtrail is a true beast. Its amazing off-road capability is one of the defining features of this SUV, making it a top contender for anyone looking to tackle challenging terrains without hesitation. Equipped with Lexus’s Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), an electronically controlled locking rear differential, and more rugged 33-inch tires mounted on 18-inch wheels, the Overtrail model is built to handle the toughest trails. For those even more focused on off-road performance, the Overtrail+ model takes things up a notch, adding Crawl Control and additional off-road enhancements.
This isn’t just a trail-ready machine, though. Under the hood, the GX 550 boasts a smooth and powerful 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, producing 349 horsepower and a remarkable 479 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, the powertrain ensures that you’ve got plenty of grunt when you need it, whether you’re hauling a trailer or climbing a steep incline. And with a towing capacity that’s more than sufficient for most adventures—whether it’s a boat, a trailer, or an ATV—the GX 550 proves it’s just as comfortable pulling heavy loads as it is charging through rugged landscapes.
Inside, the GX 550 blends the best of luxury with the best of utility. The interior has been modernized, offering a more refined and improved cabin that still maintains the robust, durable feel necessary for off-roading. While some may find the minimalist design lacking a bit of flair, the focus here is on durability and function. The seats are comfortable, with the Overtrail models offering seating for five, which suits those looking for more space and better off-road performance. Although the third row in the standard GX is tight—better suited for children or shorter trips—it’s still nice to have that option in the base model for larger families or groups. However, if off-road capability is your priority, the Overtrail models’ two-row configuration is likely the better fit.
The driving experience is another area where the GX 550 impresses. Despite being a body-on-frame SUV, it handles remarkably well with minimal body roll, making it more refined on-road than many of its off-road-focused competitors like the Ford Bronco or Jeep Wrangler. It’s a capable off-roader that you can comfortably live with every day, unlike some of its rivals that feel too rugged or uncomfortable for daily use. The full-time 4WD system further enhances the vehicle’s versatility, ensuring that you can confidently take it wherever the adventure leads.
Technology is another area where the GX 550 excels. The 14-inch infotainment system, complete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, is not only large and impressive but also intuitive and easy to use. The screen’s size makes navigation, music, and vehicle settings accessible and clear, keeping you connected even in the most remote areas. While the infotainment system is top-notch, the vehicle’s fuel economy is less impressive. With an estimated 15 mpg city and 21 mpg highway, the GX 550 is certainly thirsty, especially given the size of its engine. A hybrid version of the GX has been rumored, and it can’t come soon enough for those who want a more efficient alternative.
There are a few areas where the GX 550 could improve. For one, the cargo space could be more practical. The high cargo floor makes it difficult to load in heavy items, and while the space is sufficient for most tasks, it isn’t as expansive as some might hope in a vehicle of this size. The minimalistic approach to the interior design also means it may lack some of the opulence seen in more premium models, but this is a small trade-off for the rugged durability and off-road capability the vehicle offers.
The pricing for the 2024 Lexus GX 550 starts at $65,600 for the base Premium trim level. The Overtrail models start at $70,600.
At the end of the day, the 2024 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail is a refined, capable, and luxurious SUV that’s perfect for those who want to experience the thrill of off-roading while still enjoying the comfort and amenities of a high-end vehicle. It’s a capable alternative to the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler, offering more refinement and practicality for everyday driving, without sacrificing its adventure-ready performance. The GX 550 Overtrail proves that you don’t have to choose between luxury and capability—you can have both. Whether you’re hauling a boat, towing gear, or navigating a mountain trail, the GX 550 is ready for the adventure.
