2024 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail Review: A Blend of Rugged Capability and Refined Luxury

Is the 2024 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail Worth It?

The 2024 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail is a really nice SUV that mixes serious off-road capabilities with a comfortable ride for the streets. When we first checked it out at the Truck Rodeo in Decatur, it wowed us how well it handled the off-road trail. The GX 550 handled steep climbs and tricky angles like a pro, showing that Lexus can build a tough ride without losing its luxury flair.

The GX 550 comes with a twin-turbocharged 3.4L V6 engine, which replaces the old V8 from the previous model. This new engine packs a punch with 349 horsepower and a solid 479 lb-ft of torque, easily beating the old model’s 301 horsepower. Plus, it’s matched up with a 10-speed Direct Shift Automatic Transmission, making it easy to accelerate smoothly in all kinds of driving situations, whether you’re cruising down the highway or tackling rugged terrain.

The GX is great for towing, with a capacity of up to 9,096 lbs. depending on the trim. It’s perfect for pulling boats, trailers, or camping gear. The full-time 4WD gives you solid traction, and the Torsen limited-slip locking center differential helps with stability and control. Whether tackling rocky trails or dealing with wet roads, this system ensures power is spread out evenly, keeping the wheel spin in check and improving your grip.

Off-Road Features

The GX 550 is designed for adventure. Its standard Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) optimizes both on-road handling and off-road articulation. By locking and unlocking the front and rear stabilizer bars as needed, the system helps the vehicle maintain stability without sacrificing flexibility.

Crawl Control allows the SUV to traverse tricky terrain at low speeds by automatically adjusting throttle and braking for even greater control. With approach, breakover, and departure angles of 26, 24, and 21 degrees, the GX is well-equipped for tackling inclines, declines, and uneven surfaces.

The Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) system offers multiple drive modes for different surfaces:

  • L4 Modes: Auto, Sand, Mud, Rock
  • H4 Modes: Auto, Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow

Complementing these features is the Multi-Terrain Monitor, which uses four cameras to provide a 360-degree view of the SUV’s surroundings. This is especially useful when navigating tight trails, allowing drivers to see beneath the vehicle and around obstacles.

On-Road Comfort and Handling

One of the best things about the GX 550 Overtrail is how smooth it feels on paved roads. The suspension system is really well-designed, so it handles potholes, bumps, and rough pavement like a champ, giving you a comfy ride. Whether you’re cruising through the city or hitting the highway, the GX 550 offers a stable and pleasant experience, making it a great pick for daily drives and longer trips.

Exterior Design

The GX 550 sports an aggressive and rugged exterior while maintaining a premium aesthetic. Its square body profile and wide fender flares give it a sturdy stance, while the Lexus spindle body grille enhances its bold look. Strategically placed Triple-Beam LED headlamps and fog lights improve visibility and improve the SUV’s modern appeal.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside, the GX 550 balances rugged durability with refined luxury. The interior, which we call “Modest Luxury,” isn’t overly flashy but maintains high sophistication. The olive accents felt out of place for our taste, but the materials and build quality are top-notch overall.

The spacious and comfortable seating makes it a great choice for families or long-distance travelers. Lexus also included a convenient cool box in the center console. Although we wished it was a bit deeper for better storage. A 14-inch infotainment touchscreen sits at the dashboard’s center. It offers a user-friendly interface with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The digital 12.3-inch Multi-Information Display (MID) allows customization of key driving information, ensuring that drivers can access the most relevant data at a glance. 

Physical controls for climate and audio remain a welcome touch that reduces reliance on touchscreen controls for essential functions. A Head-Up Display (HUD) is also available. This feature projects vital information onto the windshield, helping drivers keep their eyes on the road.

Final Verdict

The 2024 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail hits that sweet spot between off-road excitement and comfy luxury. Whether you need a great family SUV or something built for adventure, the GX makes a statement. While its $71K+ price tag and some interior design choices might not suit everyone, its performance and features make it a strong pick in the luxury SUV scene.

Rating: 8/10

Subscribe to our YouTube and Join WHM.

Lexus LX 570 Test Drive Review

At the Off-road Invitational, an entire variety of vehicles was offered from different manufacturers. One SUV, in particular, I looked forward to jumping behind the wheel of was the 2019 Lexus LX 570. The many courses offered at General Sam’s Off-road Park gave us the ideal terrain to test the LX 570’s capabilities. The main course I drove on had many challenges, especially with the rain pouring down on us during this two-day event. However, from crawling out of muddy craters to climbing up hills, this luxury SUV was able to tackle everything in its way with ease. The full-time four-wheel-drive system with a TORSEN limited-slip center differential and manual locking was a much-needed feature. Another great feature was the under-vehicle camera that showed not just what was up ahead but also what the front of the vehicle was approaching, so you were never surprised at the obstacle ahead.

If you are looking for an SUV associated with outdoor recreation and off-road with luxury, look no further than to the 2019 Lexus LX 570. The newest facelift continues its elegant and sophisticated look with a large grill, and distinctive redesigned LED headlights. In addition, you can choose two configurations: a two-row version that seats five and offers the most cargo space or a three-row version that seats 8.

The 5.7-liter V8 offers 383 horsepower and 403 lbs. of torque.

The V8 engine works in sync with an eight-speed sequential-shift automatic transmission that has a towing capacity of 7,000 lbs. In addition, you are ready to tackle off-road challenges with its full-time four-wheel drive, height-adjustable suspension, and advanced system features like crawl control and multi-terrain select. The LX 570 also offers a bird’s eye view of the vehicles surrounding for added safety and peace of mind.

The interior features modern artisan-crafted wood trim and a self-monitoring heated and leather-trimmed steering wheel. The seats are incredibly soft with high-grade semi-aniline perforated leather. It has a 14-way driver and 12-way front passenger power-adjustable seats. The rear has customizable seating and storage that is versatile. It features a power sliding 60/40 second-row seat with a 40/20/40 split setback. A 50/50 split third-row seat is in the three-row version. The cabin has four-zone climate control with 28 vents and heated and ventilated seats. There is also a cool box to keep your beverages chilled. The 2019 Lexus LX 570 takes an already luxurious platform and elevates it to world-class status. With an MSRP of $86,080.00, it will stand out for its luxury accommodation and off-road proficiency.

Big thanks to the Off-Road Invitational event coordinators, manufactures and sponsors:

Prestige Auto – NuvinAir – Xpel – Horn Whinery – Azeo Distillery  – Garrison Brothers Distillery

Read more Articles and Subscribe to our YouTube.

Rolls Royce Cullinan, A $400,000 SUV

Texas Off-road Invitational gave me the opportunity to drive a Rolls Royce Cullinan!

I received an invite to the first annual Texas Off-Road Invitational via the Texas Motor Press Association to test drive several different SUVs & Trucks. The highlight of this two-day event was getting behind the wheel of a Rolls Royce’s Ultimate Luxury SUV, the Cullinan. The Cullinan gets its name from the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found in Cullinan, South Africa, in 1905, which was later placed onto Elizabeth II’s crown. Before first stepping into the driver’s seat, I hopped into the back row seating to get the ultimate Rolls Royce experience. Immediately after I sat down, I was amazed by the ample leg room.

I am 6’1 and was more than comfortable. I was able to lounge back in the rear and stretch my legs without worrying about the driver. Modern and traditional designs filled the interior with nothing but luxury. The analog chrome lever that opened and closed the air vents was the most straightforward yet eye-catching feature. Inside, you are surrounded by slabs of wood, soft plush leather, and hidden Spirit of Ecstasy emblems.

The ride itself was nice and luxurious, even during some mild off-roading.

“Effortless Everywhere” is Cullinan’s motto. This is entirely true wherever you take it, as this vehicle does a lot for you. The car reads what you are doing and selects the ideal driving mode for you, including off-road and hill descent options. Even in rougher terrains, there is still unparalleled comfort. It is always in all-wheel drive, equipped with wheel rear steering, and can raise or lower when needed. The engine packs a massive punch with a 6.7 L V12, paired with an 8 Speed transmission, which gives you 563HP and 627 TQ and fuel consumption of 18.8 mpg. With its performance features, you can comfortably and safely conquer sand, rain, snow, and ice. This hand-built SUV was configured for adventure, bringing form and function together.

Verdict

If you are in the market for a top-tier, luxury, off-road capable yet graceful SUV, then forget about the competitors because the Cullinan is in a league of its own.

5 out of 5 Stars

Big thanks to the Off-Road Invitational event coordinators, manufactures and sponsors:

Prestige Auto – NuvinAir – Xpel – Horn Whinery – Azeo Distillery  – Garrison Brothers Distillery