The Redesigned Lexus GX: Luxury Meets Off-Road Capability
Lexus, known for its luxury vehicles, has transformed its rugged GX model, integrating premium features with exceptional off-road abilities. Traditionally popular among adventure-seekers who appreciate comfort, the GX continues to be a top choice for those venturing off the beaten path. The new GX 550 starts at $64,250, with fully equipped versions reaching over $80,000.
Modern Features and Improved Performance
The 2024 update retains the GX’s strong four-wheel-drive system and introduces advanced safety and comfort technologies from Lexus. While some owners may never use its off-road capabilities, the GX’s robust design is widely appealing, complemented by practical features like a third-row seat. The previous V8 engine has been replaced with a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6, generating 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, significantly enhancing its performance.
Positioning in the SUV Market
The GX plays a vital role in Lexus’s strategy to offer a diverse range of SUVs to meet different needs. At the smaller end, the UX model, now with standard hybrid power, is ideal for urban environments. For those seeking rugged performance, the GX 550, especially in the Overtrail edition, is built for challenging terrains while providing a luxurious experience. This versatility positions the GX against competitors like Land Rover, which also offers a blend of luxury and off-road capability and is moving towards electrification. The ongoing SUV trend highlights their adaptability and readiness for adventure, a quality the new Lexus GX exemplifies.
A recent analysis by iSeeCars has highlighted notable differences in recall rates among popular SUVs, pinpointing Lexus hybrids as leaders in reliability. The study found that the Lexus RX450h and NX300h have the lowest predicted recall frequencies in their lifetime, making them standout choices for reliability. In stark contrast, the Tesla Model Y ranks as the SUV with the highest projected recall rate, suggesting potential ongoing maintenance challenges for owners.
Detailed Findings from the iSeeCars Study
Karl Brauer from iSeeCars provided insights into the implications of the study, noting that choosing vehicles like the Lexus RX 450h or MINI Convertible could greatly reduce the likelihood of experiencing recalls. These models have an almost negligible chance of recall compared to the Porsche Taycan and Tesla models, which could see upwards of 60 recalls in their lifespan. While the industry median sits at 3.2 recalls, vehicles from Lexus significantly outperform this average, showcasing their superior build quality and reliability.
Navigating Recalls and Understanding the Impact
For consumers, understanding and managing vehicle recalls is simpler than ever. Owners can access recall information through their local dealership, brand-specific online pages, or directly via the NHTSA’s Recall Lookup Tool using their VIN. The study’s methodology involved a comprehensive review of NHTSA data for vehicles from the 2015-2024 model years, projecting recall frequencies over a hypothetical 30-year vehicle lifespan. This robust analysis underscores the importance of brand selection in mitigating recall risks and enhances consumer awareness of potential long-term vehicle reliability.
Additional Information on Recall Management
Ease of Recall Checks: Vehicle owners can effortlessly check for recalls using several convenient methods, ensuring they are always informed about their vehicle’s safety status.
Over-the-Air Updates: Many modern vehicles, including Teslas, can receive software-related recall fixes via over-the-air updates, simplifying the process. However, some recalls will still require a physical visit to service centers.
Implications for Vehicle Owners: Understanding the recall history and projections for potential future recalls can significantly influence purchasing decisions, particularly for those seeking low-maintenance and reliable transportation options.
This report provides crucial insights for prospective car buyers, emphasizing the importance of choosing models with lower projected recall rates to ensure both safety and convenience.
Earth Day invites us to think about our environmental impact, particularly how our vehicle choices affect the planet. Since driving plays a significant role in our carbon footprint, selecting an eco-conscious car is key. So, which models—Toyota, Tesla, or Ford—offer the best eco-friendly options?
Top Eco-Friendly Vehicle Selections
GreenerCars identifies hybrids, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and electric vehicles (EVs) as the top choices for reducing environmental impact. Hybrids use a combination of gasoline and electricity, providing limited electric-only travel without the need for frequent recharges. PHEVs allow for an all-electric drive when plugged in but also use gasoline for extended range. In contrast, EVs rely solely on electricity, necessitating regular charging.
2024 Toyota Prius Prime SE
Leading the pack is the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime SE, a prominent PHEV. It features a 2.0-liter engine paired with dual electric motors, delivering a combined output of 220 horsepower. With an estimated electric range of 44 miles per charge, the Prius Prime achieves 53 mpg city and 51 mpg highway when the battery is depleted. It boasts a green score of 71 and has an estimated annual fuel expense of $529, starting at $32,975.
2024 Lexus RZ 330e
The 2024 Lexus RZ 330e stands out as a luxury electric SUV option. It is equipped with a 72.8-kWh battery and a single motor, producing 308 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. This vehicle offers a substantial electric range of up to 266 miles per charge and achieves approximately 137 MPGe city and 112 MPGe highway. With a green score of 67 and an estimated yearly fuel cost of $651, it carries a higher price tag of $55,150.
2024 Mini Cooper SE
Completing our list is the 2024 Mini Cooper SE, a compact and efficient EV. It features a 54.2-kWh battery and a single motor generating 181 horsepower. The Cooper SE provides an estimated range of 114 miles per charge and achieves 119 MPGe city and 100 MPGe highway. With a green score of 67 and a starting MSRP of $30,900, it has an estimated annual fuel cost of $747.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right green vehicle involves considering both your driving habits and budget. While hybrids and PHEVs offer flexibility with a combination of gasoline and electric power, EVs provide a fully electric experience with zero emissions. Assess factors like electric range, fuel efficiency, and overall cost to find the best fit for your needs and environmental aspirations. For further details and comparisons, consult our detailed review and buying guide.
The 2024 Drive Car of the Year Best Medium SUV under $80K is the hybrid Lexus NX350H
If you thought this segment was hotly contested last year, it became scorching once we added electric cars to the mix. Spending a bit more money in the medium SUV segment opens up a buyer’s world to electrified and hybridised options, and pits luxe-leaning mass-market brands against major premium players. It’s truly anyone’s game.
To recap the criteria, this car has to “do everything for most people”, with design, practicality, tech and safety all high on the buyer priority list. At last year’s awards, this category was split into two – with the Nissan X-Trail winning Best Medium SUV thanks to its good fuel economy, practical cabin and slick powertrain, while the Jaguar F-Pace won Best Luxury Medium SUV thanks to its large boot, class-leading infotainment and upmarket design.
The Jaguar F-Pace was priced out of this category this year, but the Nissan X-Trail and its new e-Power hybrid variant once again proved stiff competition against the Lexus NX and the Tesla Model Y. The NX was a finalist in last year’s Best Luxury Medium SUV category
The Model Y was also a head-turner, having narrowly missed out on winning last year’s Best EV $70,000-$120,000 category – losing to the Kia EV6 by just one vote. Interestingly, it’s not the first time the Lexus NX has been pitted against the Model Y – the Lexus regularly ranks as the second best-seller in its segment, just behind the Tesla.
The Lexus, Nissan and Tesla all offer capacious interiors, on-the-road polish, premium finishes and proactive safety. But which medium SUV had the edge over the competition thanks to its supreme versatility, litany of options under the price point and bang-for-buck equipment levels?
Winner: Lexus NX
Drive’s pick: Lexus NX350h from $69,050 MSRP
Lexus NX key facts:
Priced from $62,275 to $90,948 (range)
5 year warranty
1.3L/100km to 8.1L/100km consumption (claimed)
Why the Lexus NX won:
Elevated ownership experience
Ultra-refined on the road and in the cabin
Economical hybrid options
This category was created to serve both young families and active urbanites seeking practicality with a premium touch – and the Lexus NX nails that brief and then some.
The new-generation NX landed in 2022, improving upon an already impressive offering by enhancing the driver experience, boosting the cabin space, overhauling the infotainment system and packing the car full of seriously impressive technology.
Under this category’s price threshold, you can choose from a two-wheel-drive or all-wheel drive NX with petrol or hybrid power and a litany of standard features. Our pick of the bunch is the hybrid NX350h, with a 2.5-litre petrol engine continuously variable transmission, plus integrated electric assistance offering combined outputs of 179kW and 239Nm.
If you have $80,000 to spend you can choose from a high-grade front-wheel-drive NX350h Sport Luxury or F Sport, or a more affordable all-wheel-drive NX350h Luxury. Both will check crucial boxes for safety, infotainment and comfort features, and regardless of whether you opt for the entry-level Luxury trim or the top-of-the-line F Sport, you’ll find the cabin has a distinctly upmarket feel.
Even better, Lexus’s hybrid tech and famed refinement are a match made in heaven. Not only is the NX’s hybrid system a surefire fuel and emissions saver (think 5-6L/100km on a combined cycle), it has the added benefit of smooth, electric power at city speeds that only serves to enhance the sleek behind-the-wheel experience. The cabin is also exceedingly quiet and perfectly suited for long drives with sleeping kids in the back.
While we do have a few small bugbears with the NX – the gear shifter can be frustrating during quick manoeuvring and the run-flat tyres can make for a busy ride on certain surfaces – the level of craftsmanship in the cabin is to be applauded, particularly when it all manages to sneak in under the $80,000 price point.
On even the entry-level NX250, you’ll receive standard equipment like heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, speed-sign recognition, active cruise control with lane-trace, and safe-exit assist, which is a particularly handy feature for families with young kids.
What really seals the deal on the NX, however, is Lexus’ commitment to the ownership experience. The NX is offered with relatively affordable capped-price servicing compared to some of its premium rivals ($495 a year for the first three years),and membership to Lexus’ Encore ownership program, which includes a complimentary loan car when your car is serviced, a complimentary wash and vacuum at every service and 24-hour roadside.
Arguably the most visually striking car in our medium SUV line-up, the Lexus NX is a capable, practical family car that still allows its owner to feel special, right from the front-seat experience through to the service centre.
The Lexus UX300e Sports Luxury is the fully electric variant of Lexus’s compact SUV, now boasting impressive enhancements. The range has been significantly increased from 305 kilometers to 440 kilometers, thanks to a new 72.8 kWh battery—a 34% boost. Despite this, the electric version maintains a low profile, with only subtle badging distinguishing it from its petrol counterparts.
The new infotainment system now has a touchscreen rather than the previous, fiddly, controller.
Priced at $88,490 plus on-road costs for the Sports Luxury model, and $8,500 less for the Luxury variant, this new model sees a 10% price hike from 2023. It retains its classic oversized grille, although its fast-charging capabilities are limited to a 50 kW CHAdeMO plug, taking around 80 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%. For home charging, the UX300e uses a Type 2 plug, requiring about 9.5 hours for a full charge.
Appearances are deceptive: the UX300e Sports Luxury SUV is larger than it looks.
For dedicated Lexus enthusiasts ready to transition to electric, the UX300e offers a quiet, smooth ride with luxurious features, including a new touchscreen infotainment system and a 7 kW wall charger. However, those seeking superior range and performance might find better options elsewhere.
Recent trademarks filed by Lexus for the HZ have ignited excitement among automotive enthusiasts, hinting at a new addition to their lineup of electric vehicles. The HZ is anticipated to offer a compelling alternative to the popular RZ, potentially positioning itself as a more accessible choice within Lexus’ EV range. This move reflects Lexus’ commitment to expanding its electric vehicle offerings and catering to a broader audience.
Expected Features and Market Position
While details remain under wraps, the Lexus HZ is expected to incorporate innovative technology and design elements that align with the brand’s luxury standards. This new model aims to balance performance and affordability, making advanced electric mobility more attainable. As the release approaches, industry experts and potential buyers alike are eagerly awaiting more information on how the HZ will differentiate itself and enhance the EV market.
Unmatched Style and Power of the 2023 Lexus LC 500
The 2023 Lexus LC 500 sets a new standard for grand touring with its striking design and impressive performance. With a price range of $99,050 to $106,550, this luxury sports coupe catches the eye with its sleek lines and refined interior, powered by a robust V8 engine. While it also features a hybrid option, the LC 500 shines with its top-notch craftsmanship and exhilarating driving experience, though the infotainment system could benefit from an upgrade.
Driving Experience and Interior Comfort
Driving the Lexus LC 500 offers a thrilling mix of performance and luxury. The cabin, adorned with high-quality leather and Alcantara, provides a quiet, comfortable environment accentuated by the genuine roar of the V8 engine—eschewing synthetic sound enhancements. Although designed to impress with its sporty looks, the LC 500 excels more in long-distance comfort than in aggressive cornering, making it a superb choice for extended journeys.
Trim Levels and Technological Features
Selecting the ideal Lexus LC 500 model is simple, with the base version offering a wealth of standard features, including 20-inch wheels and LED headlights. For those who prefer an open-air experience, the convertible version is a great choice, while the hybrid model provides a stylish yet eco-friendly option. However, the vehicle’s tech interface, particularly the touchpad-operated infotainment system, could be more user-friendly, as it sometimes detracts from the overall luxury experience.
In summary, the 2023 Lexus LC 500 nearly achieves perfection as a high-end sports coupe, combining stunning aesthetics with powerful performance. It offers an inviting interior and thrilling drive, yet is slightly hindered by an outdated infotainment system, indicating that it is almost there.
Does Genesis’ sleek newcomer offer enough to best the staid Lexus hybrid?
Elle Alder: It’s a competitive time in the luxury crossover market, and that ferocity has only grown hotter since the arrival of Genesis’ aggressive new lineup. Challenging stalwart nameplates like the Lexus RX 350, the Genesis GV70 has proven a particularly compelling product that goes heavier on feature content than its competitors go on price.
We’ve seen in other comparisons how the GV70 has called complacent incumbents to attention, but how does the Genesis stack up against the new-for-2023 fifth-generation Lexus RX Hybrid?
Before us are two high-flying trims: the 2023 Lexus RX 350h Executive, and the 2023 Genesis GV70 3.5T AWD Sport Plus. Stickering from respective inclusive MSRPs of $75,650 and $77,500, shoppers should expect a lot from these SUVS — and indeed, both certainly deliver.
The 2023 Lexus RX 350h offers the highest equipment complement in the RX 350 lineup, second only to the vanitous F-Sport upgrades, and (troublingly) to the mighty RX 500h. The RX 350h Executive lists from $17,000 above the starter RX 350 Premium’s $58,650 base MSRP, and outfits the Ontario-built Lexus with standard heated steering and tri-zone climate, as well as surround-view cameras, larger central infotainment, LED headlamps, leather seating, and a handful of tech- and comfort bonuses. The hybrid powertrain upgrade (denoted by the ‘h’ after the model number) is available on all standard trims for a further $1,500, and should pay for itself quickly.
The Sport Plus is Genesis’ top GV70 trim. Costing a full $20,000 more than the entry-level 2.5T AWD Advanced trim, the Sport Plus makes the most of the GV70 platform with a more powerful turbocharged V6 engine, surface-predicting suspension, nicer materials, surround-view cameras, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) including Highway Driving Assist, and Hyundai-Genesis’ signature in-cluster blind-spot cameras.
At a glance, then, both of these models bring a generous helping of glossy modern content to the showroom floor.
Interior
Graeme Fletcher: It’s an interesting exercise. The RX 300 started this whole near-luxury crazy segment back in 1999, so it seems only fitting the latest iteration go head-to-head with the newbie and upstart on the block. In both cases, the interiors of the GV70 and RX 350h are rich and befitting a luxurious drive. In terms of the material quality the GV70 has an undeniable edge, though the Canadian-built RX 350h has the better fit and finish; it just feels more polished.
The rest of the cabin is a case of give and take: seat comfort goes the GV’s way; sightlines in favour of the RX. This back-and-forth went on until the infotainment system. These modern systems anchor the entire cabin and the relative merits of the vehicle invariably boil down to the infotainment system and its ability to do things quickly, efficiently, and without needing to take a two-week course to master it.
These two systems represent the best the business has to offer. The Lexus RX has the upper hand and for two key reasons: first, the screen shape is easier to live with — the GV70’s screen, at 14.5 inches, is too long and letterbox-like; second, there is little need to go beyond a second screen touch to access any given function.
More importantly — and the tipping point for me — is the voice recognition system; it’s one of the best around. “Hey Lexus, turn on the wipers;” done. If the setup is not class-leading it is pretty darned close. It is a pity not all RX models benefit from the larger screen — it gives everything more breathing space.
EA: For those who prefer not to talk to HAL, both vehicles offer standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity — wired in the Genesis, and wirelessly in the Lexus. Wireless device chargers are also available in both, with the Genesis offering a concealable drop-in cubby to help reduce the temptation for distraction (albeit with the awkward inconvenience of cable routing).
Both of these crossovers are available solely in two-row, five-passenger layouts. The RX 350’s wheelbase has been lengthened for this new fifth generation, affording rear passengers more legroom but crowding out the option of a third bench.
Driving impressions
EA: The Lexus RX 350h takes the interior for us, but the Genesis GV70 certainly bests it on the drive. Both the Genesis and the Lexus drive roughly as expected of modern crossovers, but the Genesis responds with dynamism where the Lexus stands out with dullness. Though certainly not sporty, the GV70’s steering and suspension are responsive for the segment and feel more direct than the commendably soft, sedate drive in the RX 350h; different strokes, and all that.
Higher GV70 trims can also equip Genesis’ ‘road-previewing’ adaptive suspension, though it doesn’t work to quite the glossy effect we’ve praised in the Genesis G90 luxury sedan. Lexus shoppers who tick the higher F-Sport packages, meanwhile, will appreciate those trims’ more dynamic adaptive suspension damping — the one bit of those appearance packages’ real mechanical substance, it’s worth noting. In town, buyers of either RX 350 will appreciate the variable-gear-rate steering rack, which actually makes the steering wheel turn the front wheels faster for quicker maneuvers.
Up-trimmed with the 3.5L turbocharged V6 we’ve tested and appreciated in other Genesis products, the GV70 likewise pulls off with the surprising might of 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. The turbo adds a good heft here, and pairs well with the paddle-controllable eight-speed automatic transmission. The Genesis GV70 comes standard with a 2.5L four-cylinder turbo, which actually delivers better 9.7 L/100 km combined fuel economy than the 2.4L engine’s combined 9.9 L/100 km in non-hybrid RX 350s. This direct-injected powertrain is a tad clattery for luxury applications, but nevertheless respectable at 300 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque.
The Lexus RX 350h’s hybrid powertrain is slow but steady. Mated to an unpleasant continuously variable transmission (CVT), the RX 350h rubber-bands its way to highway speeds at an inoffensive rate. The transmission attempts to remind drivers of a conventional automatic with paddles that let drivers knock the revs up like simulated gear changes, but the result is more noise than actual power. The RX 350h offers 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque; non-hybrid RX 350s offer 275 hp and 317 lb-ft through a conventional 8-speed automatic transmission.
The Lexus’ sacrifices to the altar of fuel economy pay off, however: the 2023 Lexus RX 350h’s fuel economy is rated at 6.3 L/100 km city, 6.8 highway, and 6.5 combined; the non-hybrid RX 350 is rated at 11.2 L/100 km city, 8.4 highway, and 9.9 combined.
It’s worth noting that the higher-placed RX 500h is available with 366 hp and 406 lb-ft, rated at 8.7 L/100 km city, 8.4 L/100 km highway, and 8.6 L/100 km combined.
Fuel economy in the GV70 2.5T is rated at 10.7 L/100 km city, 8.4 highway, and 9.7 combined; GV70 3.5T figures are stated at 12.9 city, 10.0 highway, and 11.6 L/100 km combined.
GF: This is where these two capable crossovers drive very different roads. In simple terms, the RX 350h is aimed at those who like to ride easy and demand fuel efficiency; the GV70 keys on the inner driver. Power-wise, the GV70 has two turbos blowing air into the engine, which gives it some real pop; the RX 350h relies on a naturally aspirated four-cylinder and an electric motor to deliver the excitement. Even with the motor filling out the power curve, it still feels flat, and having driven the RX 500h, flat is not a word to use here! The other nit, as noted by Elle, is that CVTs are noisy and do not convey sophistication; so it is in the RX 350h. The GV’s eight-speed automatic is just the opposite — sophisticated and slick.
The flip side is the RX’s wonderful fuel economy. Where the GV70 was swigging its gas at an average rate of 11.9 L/100 km during the test, the RX was sipping at 6.8 L/100 km. The difference in the longer-term cost of ownership is large.
Even the all-wheel-drive (AWD) systems take very different approaches. The rear-drive portion of the RX 350h’s AWD setup is supplied by an electric motor. Lexus does not specify how much power it contributes, but it has to add something — the AWD Corolla Cross has noticeably more hop off the line than the front-drive unit!
Still, my preference was for the GV70. In a twist, the GV’s rear-drive platform mandates a rear-drive-biased AWD system, which gives it a sportier feel. When traction is needed the power is transferred forward to deliver the desired grip. In practice, it brings more bite when hauling out of a corner. This and the adaptive suspension give the GV70 its handling edge. All the electronics at play work as one to deliver a crisp, highly pointable drive. Conversely, the RX 350h is aimed at the type of driver that likes to waft rather than carve. If you want to do a hard run in the RX, it mandates the RX 500h.
How would you sum things up Elle? Are you an RX fan or do you like some crickle-crack?
EA: These are different vehicles for different buyers, but as should be clear, the GV70 stands out in this comparison. Were I looking for a flavour of the month to lease, I’d be leaning GV70; if I wanted a family lifer to buy, it’d be the RX hybrid.
GF: I am inclined to agree with your assessment. I loved driving the GV70 with its blend of power and handling, but like you, I found the RX 350h to be a more grounded proposition. I loved driving by gas stations! Mind you, of the RX range, I love the 500h, but that’s grist for another comparison!
Toyota has filed trademarks with the European Intellectual Property Office (EIPO) for variations of the “TZ” name, as reported by InsideEVs.
The trademarks include Lexus TZ450e and Lexus TZ550e, which we think are likely names for a fully electric alternative to the new three-row Lexus TX.
The Lexus TZ will probably share a platform with Toyota’s upcoming three-row EV that’s expected to be called bZ5X and begin being built sometime in 2025.
It’s all but confirmed that Lexus has a three-row electric SUV in the works. What it will be called is still up in the air, however, it looks likely that such a model will wear the “TZ” badge. That speculation is based on trademark applications that Toyota recently filed with the European Intellectual Property Office (EIPO), which was reported by InsideEVs.
Among the applications that were filed earlier this week, Toyota applied for trademarks to “Lexus TZ450e” and “Lexus TZ550e.” The “T” in those names suggest it could be similar in size to the recently revealed Lexus TX, which features three rows of seats and three powertrains, including two hybrid setups. The “Z” is what Lexus uses to identify its fully electric models, such as the compact RZ SUV.
Perhaps more telling than either of those extrapolations regarding the potential body type and powertrain the Lexus TZ will have is the fact that Toyota has already announced plans to build a three-row electric SUV starting sometime in 2025. Based on the Toyota bZ5X concept, we expect the production model to share that name and its platform with an inevitable Lexus-branded version. Judging by today’s news, the latter will use the “TZ” prefix.
Ken Gushi’s Lexus IS300 stands out with its extensive upgrades, featuring a powerful 1JZGTE engine swap. This engine is paired with a Trust T67-25G turbo and a GReddy intercooler, complemented by a custom exhaust manifold and TiAL 44mm wastegate for superior performance. Enhanced with a Walbro fuel pump, Radium Engineering fuel rail, and Link Xtreme G4X management, this setup ensures peak efficiency and responsiveness.
Top-Tier Components and Custom Touches
The car’s drivetrain boasts a Samsonas sequential six-speed dogbox and OS Giken clutch, while the suspension is upgraded with KW V3 coilovers and Wisefab front Pro-Lock kit for precise handling. Project Mu braking components, Gramlights 57FX wheels, and an Avery vinyl wrap add both performance and visual appeal. Inside, the Sparco Rev seats and Nardi steering wheel provide a race-inspired touch, showcasing Gushi’s dedication to blending functionality with style.
Acknowledgments and Support
Ken Gushi extends his gratitude to friends and collaborators who made this dream build possible. Special thanks go to Panic Wire for the seamless wiring harness, Link ECU for software tuning, and Unrivaled Tuning for optimizing the engine setup. Additional appreciation is given to Wisefab, Radium, Mackin, Rays Wheels, and GReddy for their support and contributions, ensuring this Lexus IS300 is truly one of a kind.
