The Lexus GX is a plush package with three rows of seats and great off-road capability but it has been the second-generation version since 2010. Lexus made some important upgrades for the 2020 version to keep the model relevant. It was like a new mid-update with the revised front-end design, updated infotainment features and added new standard active safety systems. A clever move was also an introduction of several new option packages including the Off-road package and Sport Design package which should keep attention on the model until the arrival of the all-new version.
So, following the recent visual and feature upgrades, the next 2021 Lexus GX will stay in the current generation without any substantial upgrade despite some reports suggested a full redesign for the 2021 season. There will again be some mixing in the feature availability and possibly a new package option but not much more than that.
2021 Lexus GX: Design
The Lexus GX shares the truck-like underpinning with the Toyota 4Runner while applying the Lexus-style body and interior design. The last year’s style update with the elements from the newest Lexus models infused a much-needed dose of freshness to model’s appearance while it keeps running on the old-school underpinning and with the same body contours.
The 2021 Lexus GX will also keep the journey in the same form. The front-end style will be defined by the massive spindle grille with the texture like on the brand’s new sedans. The look of the headlights will also be up to date.
The profile paneling will also remain the same as well as the rear side.
Buyers will again have a chance to upgrade the model’s styling with the option package which adds unique 19-inch wheels and dark-style trim pieces.
Interior, Equipment:
The mid-size Lexus GX received some interior upgrades for the 2020 version such as new steering wheel, upgraded information display while added also new standard active safety systems. The next version won’t bring any major improvement inside the cabin or to the equipment list.
The Lexus GX is comfortable in the first and middle rows while the third is adequate for kids. The cargo space is up to 64.7 cubic feet while shrinks to 11.6 cubes with all seats up. Behind the second row, the cargo room is 46.7 cubes.
The base GX version will come with running boards, a sunroof, keyless entry and ignition combined with the simulated-leather padding, dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable front seats and steering column, an 8-inch infotainment interface, nine speakers, etc. The standard safety equipment will also cover active safety gear such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring and automatic high beams.
The Luxury version will switch to the leather surfaces and adding also heated seats, Mark Levinson sound system with 17 speakers, and more.
2021 Lexus GX: Powertrains
For the power delivery, the 2021 Lexus GX will again rely on the familiar 4.6-liter V-8 engine good for 301 hp and torque of 329 pound-feet. The power is routed via the 6-speed automatic transmission to four-wheel drive.
The V-8 engine provides smooth acceleration and as much as 6, 500 pounds of towing. The fuel economy will be around a low 15 mpg city and 19 highway or just 16 mpg combined.
The Lexus GX will also employ the brand’s proven Kinetic Dynamic Suspension system and offer the off-road package. The Off-road package improves the model’s capability and situation awareness behind the paved rods with the off-road traction control, crawl control, underbody and surround cameras, a transmission cooler, etc. The truck-like underpinning shared with the hardcore Toyota 4Runner has also the off-roading in the genes.
2021 Lexus GX: Release, Price
The next 2021 Lexus GX will hit the market in late 2020 without any significant upgrade as recent reports suggest. The base version should again be available from about $53, 000. The Luxury version with more premium comfort and tech features will demand slightly below $65, 000.
A similar purpose model to the Lexus GX is a Land Rover Discovery which is available with more customization options. Buyers should also consider the Jeep Grand Cherokee as an alternative which will arrive all-new for the 2021 model year. The Land Rover Velar meets also similar demands as the GX but is a much newer model.