Lexus offers the GX in three trims: GX, GX Premium, and GX Luxury. The GX Luxury will be the focus of this report.
The GX is a 7-passenger SUV powered by a 4.6 L V8 engine with 6-speed sequential-shift automatic Electronically-Controlled Transmission with Intelligence (ECT-i). This motor delivers 301 hp and 329 lb-ft of torque, and has a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds.
The estimated mileage is 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway, for a combined 17 mpg.
One of the best features is the navigation system with 8-inch touchscreen and voice command. The high resolution color LCD display works together with the standard backup camera and Intuitive Parking Assist, and it was very clear and concise.
The most beautiful sounds of music could be heard through the Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound Audio Package. The system has an Automatic Sound Levelizer which adjusts volume to compensate for increased ambient noise as vehicle speed increases.
I took a long, leisurely drive listening to the DVD/CD player presenting wonderments from the Sound of Music recording captured in the Broadway musical of the same name. It was sensationally relaxing as a setting for a magnificent experience. SiriusXM provides additional music, political talk, and sports programming.
Inside the GX there is an air of sophisticated comfort with the semi-aniline leather-trimmed big seats, driver memory system, and heated and ventilated 10-way power adjustable front seats. The middle row has reclining and sliding seats, and the outboard ones are heated. The third row is fold-flat 50/50 split. There is a cargo area of 64.7 cu ft with a tonneau cover.
GX handles well, gobbles up bad roads while stretching long and gently on the straightaways. Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System adjusts the suspension to make your ride as engaging and controlled as possible regardless of on-road or off-road.
Automatic dimming mirror, HomeLink garage door opener, power folding mirrors, windshield de-icer and rain-sensing wipers add to the convenience and safety for everyone involved in the driving experience. Wherever you roam, enjoy amenities like 3-zone automatic climate control to help ensure that individual needs are addressed and wishes met.
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $65, 515.
There is a $1,970 dual-screen rear seat entertainment system which adds a pair of 7-inch screens behind the front seat headrests that can be used as a media player or game console screen via audio and video input jacks. Wireless remote and headphones are also included in this option. This provides individualized, untethered entertainment for the second row passengers.
Kids and old folks like myself love this entertainment value because it helps time pass quickly. Restless minds, cloudy thoughts, and complaining voices are ground out, replaced by shouts of excitement as back seat passengers become engaged in competitive games, or snores from soothing music to the ears.
Another interesting option is the Driver Support Package. It does everything except take out the trash and feed the dog. Pre-Collision System with Advanced Driver Attention Monitor, Lane Departure Alert, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, CRAWL Control, and Wide-View Front and Side Monitor are great safety and tech features. Why not just take the dog with you and take the trash out before you leave? Cost? About four grand.
Warranty
4-year/50,000-mile Lexus Basic Warranty
6-year/70,000-mile Powertrain Warranty
6-year/Unlimited Mileage Corrosion Perforation Warranty
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this newspaper or [email protected]
