The 2023 Lexus GX rides on a platform that dates back to 2010. Think about that; this SUV hasn’t had any major changes for thirteen years.

Children born during the last generation of the Lexus GX are teenagers now. Considering the technological advancements made in the automotive world and the new platforms offered, this makes the GX a virtual dinosaur in the market. This impressive, full-size, three-row SUV still uses a big and strong V8 engine while riding on a body-on-frame build. When you want an old-school SUV to drive and enjoy, this Lexus could be exactly what you’re after.

Consumers love this modern classic

If there’s any doubt that some shoppers still admire the classic build of a strong V8-powered SUV, the GX puts those to rest. J.D. Power ranks this full-size Lexus SUV at the top of the premium SUV category with excellent quality and reliability, good resale value, and a good driving experience. Those who understand the GX know it’s made to offer a great feeling on the trails while delivering a traditional ride on the road. This brute is tough, rugged, and well-built to be a trustworthy luxury SUV.

Did Lexus add anything new

The latest version of the Lexus GX finally has the modern infotainment system we deserve. This system offers a touchscreen instead of a rotary controller. In addition to a modern infotainment system, the GX Black Line Special Edition receives a 360-degree camera system, new white paint, additional black exterior features, and gray leatherette upholstery. The Luxury trim also adds a new premium audio system as part o the standard package. The GX brings a quiet and comfortable ride to your on-road driving while delivering the off-road equipment necessary for some fun and adventure when it’s taken to the trails.

What powers this Lexus SUV?

Every model of the GX uses the same 4.6-liter V8 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. This sounds like an old-school powertrain in today’s market because it is. This system includes standard 4WD to make all GX models off-road-ready for some fun in the sun. You’ll have 301 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque from a powertrain that only returns 15 city/19 hwy mpg. If you need to tow a trailer with the GX, it’s capable of pulling up to 6,500 pounds, making it easy to take all the gear you need to your favorite camping spot.

The cabin isn’t as big as you might expect

If the Lexus GX is supposed to be a competitive three-row SUV, it’s falling a bit short in the roominess category. The GX offers 41.6 inches of legroom in the first row, 34.1 inches in the second row, and 29.3 inches in the third row. The 2023 Volvo XC90 offers more room in the second and third rows with only slightly less space in the front row.

The cargo room story gives the Volvo a leg up as well. The Lexus has 11.6 cubic feet of cargo room behind the rearmost seats, 46.7 cubic feet with one row folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with two rows down. The XC90 beats the GX in all three categories, offering a maximum of 80.3 cubic feet of space. If you’re thinking about the GX for its roominess, you might need to test-drive it first.

What’s up with the new infotainment system?

Lexus finally upgraded the infotainment system of this dinosaur. This new system provides a 10.3-inch touchscreen that includes integrated Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You’ll also find integrated navigation and USB ports in both the first and second rows, along with a nine-speaker audio system which is standard. The Luxury trim brings a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system to the mix. There’s also a 360-degree camera system which is an optional feature of the latest version of this SUV.

Which trim of the Lexus GX should you drive?

There are a few different trims offered for the GX, giving you some great options to enjoy this three-row SUV. Let’s take a look at each trim.

GX 460 (base model)

The base version of this SUV includes:

• 10-way power front seats
• 18-inch alloy wheels
• LED headlights
• Heated power-folding outboard mirrors
• Power moonroof
• Faux-leather upholstery
• Dual-zone automatic climate controls
• Power-adjustable steering wheel
• Driver’s seat memory settings
• Proximity key with push-button starting
• Reclining 40/20/40 second-row seats
• Four USB ports
• Forward collision warning
• Automatic emergency braking
• Pedestrian detection
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Lane-departure warning
• Rear cross-traffic alerts
• Adaptive cruise control
• High-beam assist

GX 460 Premium

One step upward adds a few more features, including:

• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Tri-zone automatic climate controls
• Rain-sensing wipers
• Windshield wiper de-icer
• LED fog lights
• Premium Plus Package (Optional)
  • 17-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound system
  • Power reclining/folding third-row seats
• Second-row heated captain’s chairs (optional)
• Sport Design Package
  • Captain’s chairs
  • 19-inch wheels

GX 460 Black Line Special Edition

This limited version of the Lexus GX is only being made in 3,000 units. This trim is basically an upgraded appearance package for the Premium rim, but it does add a surround-view camera and some special exterior colors. These colors include Eminent White Pearl, Obsidian, and Nori Green.

GX 460 Luxury

The top of the trim levels is the Luxury trim. This version of the GX gives you:

• 17-Speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound audio system
• Semi-aniline leather upholstery
• Leather-and-wood steering wheel
• Power third-row seat
• Headlight washers
• 19-inch alloy wheels
• Adaptive suspension with auto-leveling
• Off-Road Package (Optional)
  • Surround-view camera with a multi-terrain monitor
  • Crawl Control
  • Fuel-tank skid plate
  • Transmission oil cooler

Which version of the Lexus GX is right for you?

If you want to maximize the performance and features for off-road fun, the right trim is the GX Luxury. This is the only trim with the Off-Road Package, giving you the special camera system and a few off-road goodies. This is the top trim, but when you’re looking at a luxury SUV, why not go all the way and have everything that makes this SUV special?