The Lexus GX has always been a paradox, a luxury SUV that can tackle trails just as confidently as it glides down a highway. For 2026, Lexus doubles down on that reputation with a GX that feels more modern, capable, and premium than ever. From its bold, boxy design to its high-tech interior and unmatched off-road credentials, the 2026 Lexus GX proves you don’t have to choose between luxury and rugged performance. Let’s break down everything this new SUV brings to the table.
Lexus GX Generations: From Origins to the 2026 Redesign
The Lexus GX has stood as a symbol of luxury-meets-go-anywhere capability. What began as a rugged yet refined entry into the off-road luxury segment has matured into a bold and technologically sophisticated SUV. Let’s journey through its generational shifts from the dependable GX 470 to the refined GX 460 and finally to the modern GX 550!
First Generation Lexus GX 470 (2003-2009)
The Lexus GX 470 established an appealing new niche: a luxury utility vehicle capable of handling tough off-road terrain. It debuted in 2003 and was based on the Land Cruiser Prado's sturdy J120 platform. It had a smooth yet powerful 4.7L V8 and full-time four-wheel drive with low-range gearing. The improved suspension, which included Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), and features such as Downhill Assist Control and Hill-start Assist, made it as capable off-road as it was on the freeway.
Second Generation Lexus GX 460 (2010-2023)
Emerging in 2010, the Lexus GX 460 retained its predecessor’s rugged DNA while embracing a subtle evolution in power and refinement. Under the hood sat a 4.6-liter V8, delivering smoother performance and improved towing capacity, now around 6,500 pounds. Lexus enhanced the cabin with upgraded infotainment, refreshed aesthetics, and more advanced safety systems like Lexus Safety Connect and, later, Lexus Safety System+. Facelifts throughout its long run, including LED headlights in 2014 and terrain-management options by 2019, kept it fresh and competitive.
Third Generation Lexus GX 550 (2024-Present)
The GX 550, unveiled for the 2024 model year, represents a bold transformation. Built on the new GA-F global platform (shared with the LX 600), it features a modern double-wishbone front suspension, multi-link rear layout, and optional Adaptive Variable Suspension for refined on- and off-road dynamics. Power comes from a potent 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 349 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic and full-time 4WD setup.
What’s New in the 2026 Lexus GX?
When it comes to changes, 2026 is less about reinvention and more about refinement. There are no significant new updates; the model continues as a seamless extension of the third-generation design and equipment lineup introduced in 2024.
2026 Lexus GX Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the 2026 GX continues with a potent 3.4 L twin-turbo V-6 delivering 349 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. This engine is matched to a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system with low-range gearing. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes roughly 6.3 seconds, placing it firmly in the performance-oriented midsize SUV category.
2026 Lexus GX Towing Capacity
Lexus has optimized the GX for serious towing. Premium, Premium+, and Overtrail trims feature built-in tow hitches and can pull up to 8,000 pounds, a class-leading capability that elevates their utility without compromising polish on the road.
2026 Lexus GX Off-Road Features
For those venturing beyond pavement, the Overtrail and Overtrail+ trims deliver a suite of enhancements: a standard 1-inch suspension lift, rugged 33-inch all-terrain tires, locking rear differential, skid plates, and an electronically disconnecting anti-roll bar. They also include crawl control, downhill assist with turn assist, and generous ground clearance of 9.9 inches with approach/breakover/departure angles around 28°/26°/24°, plus a wading depth near 27.6 inches.
2026 Lexus GX Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy remains a trade-off with the GX’s off-road and power-focused design. The 2025 model achieved about 15 mpg city / 21 mpg highway; the 2026 model is expected to be similar. While not efficient by modern hybrid standards, its capability and performance justify the numbers for many buyers.
2026 Lexus GX Interior
Lexus places a premium on cabin calm and refinement. The interior features a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power tilt-telescoping steering column with memory, all standard. Higher trims bring in luxury finishes, semi-aniline leather, 10-way massaging front seats, ambient lighting, Mark Levinson audio, a power liftgate, illuminated sill plates, and a head-up display. Seating layouts offer five- or seven-passenger configurations. While the third row exists, it's notably tight and often sacrificed in the Overtrail trims for space and functionality.
2026 Lexus GX Exterior
The 2026 GX carries a strong, squared-off design with a bold grille and distinct silhouette. Its rugged yet sophisticated statement is instantly recognizable whether navigating city streets or rough trails. Standout features include high-strength body elements, elevated ride height on off-road trims, and purposeful design cues like skid-plate accents and chunky fender arches.
Key core features across all trims include:
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Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite (automatic emergency braking, lane centering, adaptive cruise, blind-spot monitoring, and 360-degree camera on Premium+ and above).
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Lexus Interface infotainment platform with large, responsive displays.
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Versatile seating layouts and thoughtful storage areas.
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Rugged underpinning for real off-road use without sacrificing on-road refinement.
2026 Lexus GX Release Date and Price
When will the 2026 Lexus GX 550 be available? The 2026 GX is slated to arrive in dealerships during Fall 2025, following Lexus’s traditional model-year rollout. Pricing is projected to start at around $66,000, extending toward $82,000 for higher trims like the Overtrail+. Keep reading to learn more about it!
What are the 2026 Lexus GX Trim Levels and Pricing?
The 2026 Lexus GX offers six different trim levels. Let’s look at their key features and prices:
2026 Lexus GX 550 Premium
The Premium is the foundation of the GX lineup, priced at about $66,000. It comes powered by a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 with 349 horsepower and full-time 4WD, making it both strong and capable. Inside, you get synthetic leather upholstery, a 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the full suite of Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 driver assists. Add in its up to 9,000-pound towing capacity, and the Premium trim sets the tone for a luxury SUV that doesn’t forget its rugged roots.
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2026 Lexus GX 550 Premium Price: Starting at $66,185
2026 Lexus GX 550 Premium+
The Premium+ builds on the base trim with thoughtful upgrades for convenience and comfort. Priced in the $70,000 range, it adds a power rear door with kick sensor, a panoramic view monitor for 360-degree visibility, and heated second-row outboard seats. The GX Premium+ is essentially the do-it-all trim for drivers who want a little more luxury without pushing into flagship pricing.
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2026 Lexus GX 550 Premium+ Price: Starting at $70,650
2026 Lexus GX 550 Luxury
The Luxury trim pushes the focus more toward upscale materials and refinement. Features include leather or semi-aniline upholstery, wood trim touches, and upgraded interior finishes. Wheel size is increased in many cases, and you also get enhanced sound systems, better seats, adjustability, possibly massaging front seats, and more premium ambient lighting. The Luxury is for drivers who want a more refined cabin, more comfort, and a more polished ride.
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2026 Lexus GX 550 Luxury Price: Starting at $78,650
2026 Lexus GX 550 Luxury+
Luxury+ pushes the GX 550 almost to its ceiling of comfort and sophistication. You get a premium audio system (think Mark Levinson or Lexus equivalent), a panoramic glass roof, automatic running boards, and perhaps a more customized ambient lighting package. High-end materials and finishes dominate, the kind of touches you see in top luxury SUVs. The cabin isn’t just a place to sit; it’s meant to pamper. If comfort, tech, and prestige matter just as much to you as performance, this is the trim that delivers.
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2026 Lexus GX 550 Luxury+ Price: Starting at $82,650
2026 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail
On the flip side, the Overtrail trim is where the GX 550 reveals its adventure spirit. Off-road upgrades include larger all-terrain tires (often 33-inch), skid plates, a locking rear differential, and Lexus’ E-KDSS (Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System) to improve articulation over rough ground. Ground clearance is higher, underbody protection is beefier, and the rugged exterior styling gets more aggressive. Inside, the finishes are tougher, more durable materials, but still with the trademarks of Lexus refinement. Overtrail is for those who want to leave pavement behind and expect the vehicle to follow.
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2026 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail Price: Starting at $73,830
2026 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail+
Finally, Overtrail+ is the trim for buyers who demand off-road capability without giving up luxury. You get all of the Overtrail hardware, trail-friendly shocks, tires, and differentials, but you also inherit many luxury additions: heated & ventilated seats, upgraded upholstery, enhanced interior finishing touches, a power liftgate, ambient lighting, and tech comforts. It’s the “go anywhere and arrive in style” version of the GX 550. If you want to summit trails by day and impress clients or family by night, this is the trim that bridges both worlds.
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2026 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail+ Price: Starting at $81,295
Ultimate Throttle Response Controller Pedal Commander® for Lexus GX
Stock throttle response holds your Lexus GX. No matter which generation of Lexus GX you drive, Pedal Commander® breaks the chains of the stock throttle response. How? As the most practical and versatile throttle response controller, Pedal Commander® is designed to eliminate throttle lag from your vehicle’s accelerator pedal, sharpening your throttle response sensitivity and putting you in complete control.
What sets the Pedal Commander® apart is the customizability you get. With four driving modes, including Eco, City, Sport, and Sport+, Pedal Commander® puts the power in your hands. Each mode comes with nine fine-tuning levels, so you can dial in the perfect performance for any road, any time. So, whether you’re towing, tackling rough terrain, or just need more control behind the wheel, Pedal Commander® makes your vehicle ready for every road adventure.
Plus, Pedal Commander® goes beyond performance thanks to its Anti-Theft feature. When activated, this feature disables the gas pedal, preventing unauthorized use of your vehicle. Enjoy the Anti-Theft feature for the first 14 days FOR FREE, then easily subscribe through the Pedal Commander® mobile app and choose from two subscription plans: $0.99 per month or $9.99 per year, cheaper than a gas station snack!
