2024 Lexus GX vs TX: Which is Right for You?

With the all-new TX and refreshed GX hitting the markets, which three-row SUV is right for your needs? Let’s help you decide.

Lexus and Toyota have been on a roll the last few model years, updating older platforms. If you’re in the market for a three-row SUV, Lexus offers three models that all debuted with the last two years. The LX and GX are both body-on-frame SUVs based on the GA-F platform. They’re both powered by twin-turbocharged V6 engines. The all-new TX is a three-row crossover built on the TNGA-K platform, which it shares with other Lexus crossovers, including the RX. The TX boasts three drive train options — a turbo 4-cylinder, a hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid.

But which three-row SUV is right for you?

For the purposes of today’s discussion, we’re going to disregard the LX because it’s the most expensive. (Basically, if you want the largest, most luxurious Lexus SUV with the most horsepower, get the LX. Even then, it’s not our favorite SUV on the market.) Otherwise, our goal today is to compare and contrast the Lexus GX — which starts in the mid $60,000 range — with the Lexus TX — which starts in the mid $50,000 range. How are they similar? How are they different? Why would you want to buy one versus the other?

Let’s dive in.

Lexus GX

Starting with the new GX 550, its Toyota counterpart is the Land Cruiser (aka the Land Cruiser 250 in other parts of the world), a mid-full-size SUV with simple but rugged construction. It boasts a traditional ladder frame with independent front suspension and a solid rear axle. According to Lexus, the GX represents the ultimate Lexus performer in off-roading. But with seating for 5-7 people, it’s not exactly large inside. Seating in the third row is pretty cramped and forget trying to haul both gear and lots of passengers.

In terms of specs, you’re looking at a total of six trim levels: Premium, Luxury, Overtrail, and their “+” counterparts. All models feature the 3.4L V35A-FTS twin-turbo V6, producing an impressive 349 horsepower and 479 lb/ft torque with full-time 4WD and a standard locking center differential. In general, the names of the trim levels reflect their design philosophies. Overtrail, for example, features 33-inch tires, an electronic locking rear differential, and a 9,096 lb towing capacity. Whereas the Luxury+ grade boasts a Mark Levinson 21-speaker surround sound system, Dynamic Sky glass roof, and adaptive variable suspension. However, if you want that third row, you need to opt for either the Premium, Premium+, Luxury, or Luxury+, Overtrail only seats five.

Lexus TX

By contrast, the TX has been optimized for on-road driving and comfortably hauling people and cargo around suburbia. Dimensionally, it’s five inches narrower, yet six inches longer than the GX, owing to its unibody construction. This body style offers much greater interior space despite its width and height disadvantage, making it feel roomier than the GX and almost as volumous as larger American SUV brands. The TX emphasizes luxury and premium-quality features over pure functionality, so it’s ideal if off-roading isn’t a necessity. The engine choices reflect this as well, with the entry-level TX 350 being FWD with a 275-horsepower 2.4L turbo I4. However, power quickly climbs with a multitude of plug-in and hybrid options available, up to 404 horsepower with the TX 550h PHEV.

The Same, but Different

In terms of pricing, while the base models start about $10,000 apart, well-optioned models end up costing in the same $70k-85k ballpark. Specifically, a high-spec TX 550h with no options is $78,050 with delivery charges to the New York tri-state area. The GX 550 Luxury+, similarly equipped, is $81,250 in total. Which ultimately means that the choice falls to your priorities and personal preference. If you’re looking for rugged Australian Outback-tested construction and dependability, that’s the GX. It’s also perfect for towing and modifying, owing to its relatively simple platform. However, with relatively cramped interior space, it’s not ideal if you’re regularly moving more than five people. For that, you’ll need the TX, which has more than enough interior space to comfortably sit larger families and cargo. It’s perfect for longer trips as well, thanks to its available options and ample luxury features.

Ultimately, both models are perfectly suited to everyday driving, thanks to adaptive suspension, comfortable seating, and premium luxury options. The main question comes down to the destination. Are you the sort to drive a long distance to a trail with a parking lot? Then you got the TX. Or are you planning on foregoing the parking lot entirely, driving directly to the campsite? In that case, the GX might be more up your alley.

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M.C. Cuccio

I've been an automotive aficionado since I had baby teeth. My path was set when I first leaned on my grandfather's classic Porsche as I learned how to walk. One of my first memories was my mother sitting me behind the wheel of her Pontiac and talking me through the instrumentation and controls. Even though I was a mere three or four years old, I was instantly sold, and filled notebooks with technical drawings, sketches, and collections of manuals of all sorts of cars. I've actively tracked developments in automotive and motorsport technology for well over 20 years, and pride myself on being intimately familiar with the functions and history of a wide range of vehicles.

My primary goal as a writer and enthusiast is to equally learn and share what I've learned in a constructive and interesting way. I maintain connections with people from around the world and can read technical manuals in Italian, Japanese, and Spanish, granting me access to a wide array of resources. My primary focuses are deep-dives into historical topics, motorsport discussion, and learning about the complex mechanical elements of such vehicles. As such, my research is never perfect; as anyone into cars will attest, the more you learn about cars, the more you realize how little you actually know. Therefore, I always welcome fresh knowledge and corrections to help me better my work in the future.