The Lexus GX has long been celebrated for its blend of luxury and rugged capability, appealing to drivers who demand both on-road comfort and off-road prowess. With the introduction of the all-new GX 550, a natural question arises: how does it stack up against its predecessor, the GX 460? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the powertrain, driving dynamics, technology, and overall experience to help you determine which generation of the Lexus GX is the right choice for your needs. Lexus recently invited us to experience the 2024 GX 550 firsthand, and having also had the opportunity to drive the GX 460, we’re equipped to provide a detailed Lexus GX 550 vs GX 460 comparison.
Lexus GX 550 and GX 460 side by side comparison
Engine and Performance: V6 Turbo vs. Naturally Aspirated V8
The heart of any vehicle is its engine, and this is where the Lexus GX sees a significant shift. The GX 460 is powered by a robust 4.6L naturally aspirated V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine provides a smooth and effortless driving experience, though it can feel a bit heavy in today’s performance landscape. The V8 is known for its pleasing sound and exceptional smoothness, and it allows the GX 460 to tow up to 6,500 lbs.
Lexus GX 460 engine compartment showcasing the V8 engine
Lexus GX 550 engine bay displaying the twin-turbo V6 engine
In contrast, the Lexus GX 550 embraces a modern approach with a 3.4L twin-turbocharged V6 engine, similar to the one found in the flagship LX 600, albeit with some modifications. This engine elevates performance figures to 349 horsepower and a substantial 479 lb.-ft. of torque. The result is a quicker 0-60 mph time, achieved in 1.3 seconds faster than the GX 460. Furthermore, the GX 550 significantly increases towing capacity, reaching over 9,000 lbs in certain trims, a notable improvement of around 3,600 lbs over the GX 460. While not a sports car, the Lexus GX 550 offers a marked enhancement in driveability, with power and torque readily available for improved acceleration, passing maneuvers, and off-road adventures.
A question mark remains over the long-term reliability of the twin-turbo V6 compared to the venerable V8. While versions of this V6 are used in other Lexus and Toyota models like the LS 500 and Tundra, its long-term durability compared to naturally aspirated V8s is still to be fully determined. Interestingly, Lexus engineers have incorporated engine noise enhancement through the GX 550’s speakers in Sport+ mode to compensate for the V8’s absence, creating a sound reminiscent of the Toyota Tundra TRD Pro.
Transmission: Advancing from 6-Speed to 10-Speed Automatic
The transmission is another area where the Lexus GX 550 demonstrates a significant leap forward. The GX 460 utilizes a six-speed automatic transmission with sport and manual shifting modes. While functional, it’s a more traditional system compared to the advanced technology in the GX 550.
Side profile of Lexus GX 550 highlighting its modern design and proportions
The Lexus GX 550 upgrades to a sophisticated 10-speed automatic transmission, related to the one found in the LC 500. This new transmission adapts its shifting behavior based on driving modes and offers manual shifting via steering wheel paddles. The key advantage of the 10-speed lies in its more aggressive first gear ratio and closer ratios throughout the range. This translates to improved responsiveness, smoother transitions, and optimized torque and power delivery. Modern 10-speed transmissions are generally known for their reliability and efficiency despite their added complexity. While some may appreciate the simplicity of the GX 460’s V8 engine, the GX 550’s 10-speed transmission is undeniably a major advancement, contributing significantly to the vehicle’s overall driving refinement.
Chassis and Suspension: Enhanced Rigidity and Control
Both the Lexus GX 460 and GX 550 employ double-wishbone front suspensions and solid rear axles with four-link coilover suspensions, a configuration known for its durability and off-road capability. However, the Lexus GX 550 benefits from substantial chassis and suspension enhancements. The new GA-F platform underpinning the GX 550 boasts a 20% increase in rigidity compared to the GX 460’s platform, despite being lighter. This increased rigidity directly translates to improved body control and overall refinement both on and off the road.
Front three-quarter view of Lexus GX 550 and GX 460 showcasing design differences and stance
Notably, the Lexus GX 550 Overtrail and Overtrail+ grades introduce a new Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS). The original KDSS system was a pioneering technology, but its front and rear disconnects were linked, and its hydraulic nature limited its adjustability. The new E-KDSS allows independent disconnection of front and rear sway bars and offers infinitely variable flexibility, factoring in vehicle dynamics, throttle input, and steering angle. This results in significantly enhanced wheel articulation, reaching 24.45 inches, exceeding the GX 460’s articulation.
Similar to the GX 460 Luxury trim, the GX 550 Luxury+, Overtrail, and Overtrail+ models feature Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS). AVS allows drivers to select between Comfort, Normal, and Sport firmness settings. While the GX 460’s AVS system is competent, the GX 550’s system is noticeably more refined, providing a less wobbly and more stable ride, particularly in firmer settings. The Lexus GX 550 exhibits superior composure and a more planted feel compared to the previous generation.
Driving Experience: On-Road and Off-Road Dynamics
Having driven both the Lexus GX 460 Luxury and the GX 550 Luxury+, the improvements in driving experience are immediately apparent. The GX 460 remains comfortable and pleasant to drive, but the GX 550 elevates the experience in nearly every aspect, with the exception of engine sound preference. The GX 550 demonstrates quicker acceleration and more responsive braking with reduced nose-dive during hard stops. Despite its body-on-frame construction, the GX 550 achieves a smoother ride and a more refined overall driving sensation.
Lexus GX 550 driving on a paved road showcasing its on-road handling
The Lexus GX 550’s driving dynamics lean towards a European-inspired balance of comfort, refinement, smoothness, and surprisingly sporty handling, especially in Normal and Sport AVS modes. It takes the strengths of the GX 460 and enhances them, resulting in what can be considered the best body-on-frame Lexus SUV driving experience to date, even surpassing the larger LX in terms of stability and assuredness.
Off-Roading Prowess: Enhanced Capability for Adventure
While a direct Lexus GX 550 vs GX 460 off-road comparison wasn’t conducted, examining the specifications and features reveals the GX 550’s enhanced off-road capabilities. Both generations share a locking center Torsen differential and open front and rear differentials, making any GX model capable off-roaders. However, the GX 550 Overtrail and Overtrail+ trims introduce a locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select (MTS), Downhill Assist Control, Crawl Control with Turn Assist, and a Multi-Terrain Monitor. These features provide greater control and visibility in challenging off-road situations.
Lexus GX 550 conquering an off-road trail, demonstrating its off-road capabilities
The GX 550 Overtrail grades boast improved off-road geometry compared to the GX 460:
| Feature | Lexus GX 550 Overtrail | Lexus GX 460 |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | 26 degrees | 21 degrees |
| Departure Angle | 22 degrees | 23 degrees |
| Breakover Angle | 24 degrees | 21 degrees |
| Wheel Articulation | 24.45 inches | 21.06 inches |
| Ground Clearance | 8.86 inches | 8.1 inches |
The GX 550 Overtrail models offer superior OEM off-road capability and technology compared to the GX 460, making them better suited for serious off-roading and overlanding adventures.
Fuel Economy: Minor Improvement with Turbo V6
The automotive industry’s shift towards smaller turbocharged engines is driven by the need to meet stricter emissions standards and improve fuel economy while maintaining or increasing power. While turbo V6 engines are generally more fuel-efficient than V8s, fuel consumption can increase significantly when turbochargers are actively boosting. The Lexus GX 460 has an EPA estimated fuel economy of 15 mpg city, 20 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined.
The Lexus GX 550 achieves a slightly improved estimated fuel economy of 15 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined. While the improvement is marginal, the GX 550 delivers significantly more power and torque without a substantial fuel economy penalty. Buyers considering a Lexus GX should not expect drastic fuel savings with the new model.
Interior Amenities: Modernity vs. Traditional Layout
From a material and dimensional perspective, the Lexus GX 460 and GX 550 interiors are quite similar. Premium trims in both generations offer faux leather, while Luxury trims feature genuine leather. Leather quality is good but not on par with Lexus flagship models. Seating positions are also comparable. The primary interior differences lie in design and technology.
Lexus GX 460 interior showcasing the traditional dashboard layout
Lexus GX 550 interior highlighting the modern design and large touchscreen
The GX 460’s interior, particularly the dashboard, can appear somewhat busy, especially with the addition of a smaller touchscreen atop the center stack in later models. In contrast, the Lexus GX 550 interior adopts a more open and modern design. Engineers and designers have flattened the dash, lowered window sills, and repositioned the A-pillars and side mirrors to enhance visibility and create a more spacious feel.
The GX 550 offers significantly more standard technology, including a 14-inch Lexus Interface infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital instrument cluster, enhanced safety features, and additional charging ports. While some may prefer the tactile physical buttons of the GX 460’s infotainment and climate controls, the GX 550’s modern system is cleaner, more user-friendly, and offers more features, especially in higher trims, including massaging front seats and a panoramic moonroof with switchable opacity.
Visual Aesthetics: From Spindle Grille to Sculpted Modernity
Exterior styling is subjective, but the Lexus GX design language has evolved considerably between generations. The GX 460 is characterized by its prominent spindle grille, which, proportionally, can appear quite large. Lexus, along with Toyota, is moving towards a more sculpted and minimalist front-end design for the current decade. The Lexus GX 550 embodies this new design direction, drawing inspiration from boxy SUVs of the 1980s but reimagined for the 2020s.
Front view comparison of Lexus GX 550 and GX 460 highlighting grille and headlight design differences
The GX 550’s design is arguably more cohesive and muscular, projecting a more assertive and off-road-ready image. It moves away from simply being “a big grille with an SUV attached” to a more subtly aggressive and purposeful aesthetic. For many, the GX 550 represents a significant improvement in visual appeal.
Pricing and Value Proposition
New Lexus GX 460 models can still be found on dealership lots, with Premium trims typically priced in the low $60,000 range and Luxury trims ranging from the high $60,000s to mid $70,000s. Used GX 460 models, especially newer Luxury trims, can be found in the low $60,000 range, offering a more affordable entry point.
The 2024 Lexus GX 550 starts around $66,000 for Premium trims, with Overtrail trims starting in the low $70,000s, Overtrail+ just under $80,000, and a fully equipped Luxury+ reaching around $85,000. Generally, the Lexus GX 550 commands a price premium of approximately $5,000 to $10,000 compared to a similarly equipped GX 460.
Final Verdict: The Superior Lexus GX
Rear three-quarter view of Lexus GX 550 and GX 460 emphasizing rear design and tailgate differences
If the allure of a reliable and sonorous naturally aspirated V8 engine is paramount, and a plush, comfortable ride is desired at a potentially lower price point, the Lexus GX 460 remains a compelling option.
However, from virtually every other perspective – towing capacity, acceleration, braking, ride quality, suspension technology, interior features, standard equipment, and off-road capability – the new Lexus GX 550 is undeniably superior. Furthermore, the GX 550’s design is arguably more appealing and modern. The Lexus GX 550 represents a significant step forward, offering a more refined, capable, and technologically advanced SUV experience, justifying its higher price for those seeking the ultimate Lexus GX.
