Lexus recently pulled back the curtain on the all-new, eagerly awaited GX model, signifying the first substantial redesign of the line in over a decade. The forthcoming model ushers in a shift towards off-road enthusiasm, with a rugged aesthetic and robust body-on-frame architecture.

The current GX, one of the most enduring models within Lexus’ portfolio, has seen sparse modifications since its 2009 debut, notwithstanding two facelifts and sporadic updates. This underscores the urgency for a comprehensive revamp and a fresh design blueprint. The 2024 Lexus GX is ready to rise to the challenge, according to official teaser visuals, suggesting an invigorating new direction.

Frontally, the LED headlamps sport a sleek, simplified design, a departure from their predecessors. These lamps integrate effortlessly with the bumper intakes, encasing a black spindle grille, which, at least in the discussed trim, abandons the customary chrome touches. The grille on the GX presents a downsized version in comparison to the grandiose LX variant, likely a welcomed revision per feedback from our readers. A striking bulge on the GX’s hood, evocative of past Range Rover generations, provides a contemporary touch.

Additional teaser images offer a glimpse of the GX’s rear, disclosing a Prius-inspired, full-width LED bar strategically placed on the upper tailgate portion. The preview also provides a look at the squared wheel wells beneath the bold fenders, enhancing the GX’s authoritative and robust persona. Distinctively, the rear showcases a notable step above the beltline that emphasizes the protruding rear shoulders, a departure from the flat character line seen on the lower profile.

On the inside, the GX borrows liberally from the latest tech advances found in other new Lexus models, cutting back on buttons in favor of larger screens than those found in its predecessor.

A 14-inch touchscreen takes center stage, supported by a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a heads-up display. Lexus ensures all vital touchpoints remain under the command of traditional physical dials for on-the-go convenience.

Configurations of seven and six seats are available, all boasting enhanced legroom and toe room across three rows. The second row cleverly tumbles and folds to allow access for backseat passengers, with the third row offering manual or power folding.

Standard features include heated and ventilated front seats, with top-tier models providing heated second-row seats and power adjustment for the third row.

Standard seating comes in a choice of NuLuxe faux leather or semi-aniline leather in black, gray, or tan. Overtrail models come with black or "chateau" NuLuxe seats accentuated by 'olive' suede accents and black interior decor. The Overtrail+ variant introduces a distinct front seat design equipped with massaging capabilities.

Noteworthy features include up to six lit charging ports, wireless phone charging, up to 12 cupholders, a 120-volt home power socket, a 21-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound system, a heads-up display, and a digital key function.

The GX also offers advanced safety tech like autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, lane following assist, and traffic sign recognition.

Under the hood, the third-generation GX presents both a conventional V6 gasoline engine and a hybrid power option. The 3.4-liter gasoline V6 delivers 260kW of power and 650Nm of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

A hybrid power option is confirmed for the GX but won't be available at launch.

Details reveal a 2.4-liter turbo gasoline engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission; this suggests it'll be derived from the setup in the RX500h F Sport Performance, packing a punch with 273kW of power, owing to a combination of a 202kW/460Nm petrol engine and dual electric motor generators that generate 64kW/292Nm (front) and 76kW/169Nm (rear).

The GX, regardless of the chosen variant, comes with full-time four-wheel drive, a low-range transfer case, and a locking central differential. The robust Overtrail version also incorporates a locking rear differential.

Structurally, the GX is based on the TNGA-F platform variant, also the foundation for the latest Toyota LandCruiser 300.

The GX's wheelbase of 2850mm is identical to the larger LX600. However, its dimensions, 5004mm in length, 2114mm in width (including mirrors), and up to 1935mm in height, render the GX marginally shorter in body length but slightly taller.

The GX550 Premium and Premium+, along with the Overtrail and Overtrail+ models, boast a braked towing capacity of 3628kg in the U.S. market.

Lexus has bolstered body rigidity, and the standard suspension setup comprises double wishbones in the front and a multi-link system in the rear. An adaptive variable suspension system is also available.

This comprehensive revamp of the Lexus GX merges heritage with innovation, promising to take the driving experience to a whole new level. This model is set to redefine the Lexus range and will surely intrigue SUV enthusiasts awaiting its launch.