In the realm of luxury SUVs, the Lexus GX has long been a symbol of ruggedness and refinement. With the arrival of the all-new GX 550, a new chapter begins, prompting a crucial question for enthusiasts and potential buyers: GX 550 or Gx 460? We delve into a comprehensive comparison, analyzing powertrain, driving dynamics, technological advancements, and more to help you determine which generation of the Lexus GX best suits your needs.
Last week, ClubLexus was invited by Lexus USA to Tucson, Arizona, for an exclusive first drive experience of the 2024 GX 550. This event provided an opportunity to thoroughly explore all six trim levels – Premium, Premium+, Overtrail, Overtrail+, Luxury, and Luxury+. On-road evaluations were conducted with Premium and Luxury models, while the Overtrail variants were put to the test in off-road conditions. Our in-depth First Drive Review offers a detailed account of the GX 550’s performance and features. Furthermore, insights from the Chief Engineer regarding the new model’s innovations are also available. Adding another layer to our exploration, Lexus generously provided a 2023 GX 460 Luxury, enabling a direct GX 550 vs GX 460 comparison.
While our assessment of the GX 460 was limited to on-road driving, mirroring the same route immediately before testing the GX 550 Luxury+, allowed for a direct, back-to-back comparison. This firsthand experience provided valuable insights into the design, driving feel, maneuverability, and overall performance of each generation.
Here’s a breakdown of our objective and subjective observations to guide your decision.
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Engines: A Shift in Power Dynamics
The Lexus GX 460 is powered by the robust 4.6L 1UR-FE V8 engine. This naturally aspirated powerhouse delivers 301 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 329 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,500 rpm. The GX 460 achieves a 0-60 mph acceleration in 7.8 seconds, offering a smooth and composed driving experience. While adequate, some may perceive its power delivery as slightly restrained by modern standards, considering the vehicle’s weight. The V8 engine is praised for its pleasing sound and exceptionally smooth operation. The GX 460 offers a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 lbs.
In a significant departure, the Lexus GX 550 transitions to a 3.4L twin-turbocharged V6 engine. This engine shares similarities with the one found in the flagship Lexus LX 600, albeit with smaller turbochargers and specific calibrations. This new engine configuration boosts performance figures to 349 horsepower, available between 4,800 and 5,200 rpm, and a substantial 479 lb.-ft. of torque, accessible from 2,000 to 3,500 rpm. The GX 550 outpaces the GX 460 in acceleration, reaching 60 mph 1.3 seconds quicker. Furthermore, the GX 550 significantly enhances towing capability:
- Premium: 9,063 lbs
- Premium+: 9,041 – 9,063 lbs
- Luxury: 7,844 – 8,020 lbs
- Luxury+: 7,601 – 7,800 lbs
- Overtrail: 9,096 lbs
- Overtrail+: 9,063 lbs
The GX 550 boasts a remarkable towing capacity increase of nearly 3,600 lbs over the GX 460, a substantial improvement for an SUV in this class. While not a sports car, the GX 550 delivers a noticeably enhanced driving experience. The readily available power and torque translate to improved acceleration, confident passing maneuvers, and enhanced off-road prowess in challenging terrains like mud.
A key consideration for long-term ownership is the reliability of the 3.4L V6 engine over time. While variations of this engine are utilized in several Lexus and Toyota models, its long-term durability compared to Lexus’ renowned naturally aspirated V8s remains to be fully established through extensive real-world use.
Interestingly, to evoke the auditory appeal of a V8, Lexus engineers have incorporated a system that amplifies engine sounds through the GX 550’s speakers when in Sport+ mode, or in Custom Mode with the power setting in Sport. While artificial engine sounds can be divisive, this implementation is remarkably well-executed, bearing a close resemblance to the sound profile of the Toyota Tundra TRD Pro.
Transmissions: Embracing Modern Gear Technology
The Lexus GX 460 is equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, featuring both sport and manual shifting modes. The gear ratios are as follows:
- 1st: 3.520
- 2nd: 2.042
- 3rd: 1.400
- 4th: 1.000
- 5th: 0.716
- 6th: 0.586
The Lexus GX 550 represents a significant advancement with the introduction of a 10-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is related to the unit found in the Lexus LC 500, although tailored with specific tuning for the GX application, while retaining the core engineering principles. The GX 550’s transmission intelligently adapts its shifting characteristics based on selected driving modes and includes steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual control. The gear ratios for the GX 550’s 10-speed transmission are:
- 1st: 4.923
- 2nd: 3.257
- 3rd: 2.349
- 4th: 1.944
- 5th: 1.532
- 6th: 1.193
- 7th: 1.000
- 8th: 0.801
- 9th: 0.661
- 10th: 0.613
The transition to a 10-speed transmission in the GX 550 is a substantial upgrade. Modern transmissions with more gears offer benefits beyond just quicker shifts. As evidenced by the gear ratios, the 10-speed in the GX 550 features a more aggressive first gear for enhanced initial acceleration and closer ratios through the gears. This optimizes responsiveness, smoothness, and power delivery across the driving range. Furthermore, modern 10-speed transmissions are generally known for their reliability and, despite the added complexity of more gears, are not inherently less dependable.
While the V8 engine of the GX 460 holds nostalgic appeal for some, the 10-speed transmission of the GX 550 is undeniably superior, offering a clear advantage in performance and driving refinement.
Chassis & Suspension: Enhanced Rigidity and Control
Both the Lexus GX 460 and GX 550 utilize a robust chassis design featuring double-wishbone front suspensions and solid rear axles with four-link coilover suspensions. However, the GX 550 incorporates key enhancements to elevate its chassis and suspension performance. The GX 550 is built upon the new GA-F platform, which boasts a 20% increase in rigidity compared to the previous generation’s platform, while simultaneously achieving weight reduction. This enhanced rigidity directly contributes to improved body control and overall refinement, both on paved roads and in off-road environments.
Notably, the Overtrail and Overtrail+ trims of the GX 550 come standard with a new Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS). The original KDSS system, introduced in 2003, linked front and rear disconnects hydraulically, limiting it to essentially two states: connected or disconnected. This could lead to situations where adjustments on one side of the vehicle could negatively impact the opposite side. The new E-KDSS system allows for independent disconnection of the front and rear sway bars, taking into account factors such as vehicle geometry, throttle input, and steering angle. Lexus states that E-KDSS offers “infinite flexibility,” resulting in significantly improved wheel articulation, now reaching 24.45 inches.
Similar to the GX 460 Luxury trim, the GX 550 Luxury+, Overtrail, and Overtrail+ models feature Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS). AVS enables drivers to select from three distinct firmness settings – Comfort, Normal, and Sport – to tailor the ride to their preferences and driving conditions. While the GX 460’s AVS system is commendable, the GX 550’s iteration demonstrates a higher degree of refinement. The GX 550 exhibits reduced body roll compared to its predecessor and feels more stable and sportier, particularly in the firmer suspension settings.
Driving Experience: On and Off-Road Dynamics
To gain a direct comparison, the GX 460 Luxury was driven first, evaluating acceleration, braking, and cornering capabilities across its three AVS modes (Sport, Normal, Comfort), as well as sport and manual shifting modes. Subsequently, the same driving sequence was replicated in the GX 550 Luxury+, exploring its AVS modes, driving modes, and paddle shifting functionality.
The comparative driving experience revealed clear distinctions. The GX 460 retains its appealing comfort and composure, but the GX 550 demonstrably surpasses it in nearly every aspect, with the exception of engine sound preference being subjective. The GX 550 exhibits quicker acceleration from a standstill (though still not overtly sporty) and improved braking performance. Notably, the GX 550 demonstrates significantly reduced nose-dive under hard braking compared to the previous generation. Overall, the GX 550 delivers a smoother ride despite its body-on-frame construction.
The GX 550 achieves a driving character that is less overtly truck-like and closer to the refined dynamics of unibody SUVs, such as the Land Rover Defender, while maintaining its inherent ruggedness. The GX 550’s tuning approaches a European-style balance, blending comfort, refinement, smoothness, and a degree of sporty handling, particularly in Normal and Sport AVS settings. The GX 550 elevates the positive attributes of the GX 460, refining and enhancing the overall driving sensation.
Lexus often emphasizes its “driving signature,” and the GX 550 represents the most accomplished body-on-frame Lexus SUV driving experience to date, surpassing even the LX in terms of stability and composed handling.
Off-Roading Prowess: Trail-Ready Capabilities
While a direct off-road comparison between the GX 550 and GX 460 was not conducted, a feature-based comparison highlights the advancements in the new generation. Both GX 460 and GX 550 models are equipped with a locking center Torsen differential and open front and rear differentials, providing a solid foundation for off-road driving. However, the GX 550 Overtrail and Overtrail+ trims introduce a locking rear differential, along with Multi-Terrain Select (MTS), Downhill Assist Control, Crawl Control with Turn Assist, and a Multi-Terrain Monitor. These features are specifically designed to enhance control and visibility in challenging off-road situations.
The GX 550 Overtrail grades boast the following off-road specifications:
- Approach Angle: 26 degrees
- Departure Angle: 22 degrees
- Breakover Angle: 24 degrees
- Water Wading Depth: 27.56 inches
- Wheel Articulation: 24.45 inches
- Minimum Ground Clearance: 8.86 inches
In comparison, the GX 460 offers:
- Approach Angle: 21 degrees
- Departure Angle: 23 degrees
- Breakover Angle: 21 degrees
- Wheel Articulation: 21.06 inches
- Minimum Ground Clearance: 8.1 inches
Although not personally tested side-by-side off-road, the GX 550 demonstrably offers greater OEM off-road capability and a suite of technologies tailored for off-roading and overlanding pursuits compared to the GX 460.
Fuel Economy: Efficiency in the Modern Era
The automotive industry’s shift towards smaller, turbocharged engines is driven by the need to meet increasingly stringent emissions regulations while maintaining or improving fuel economy and power output. While turbocharged V6 engines generally offer better fuel economy than larger V8s, it’s important to note that fuel consumption can increase significantly when turbochargers are actively boosting performance. The Lexus GX 460 is rated at 15 mpg city, 20 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined.
The Lexus GX 550 achieves an estimated fuel economy of 15 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined.
Therefore, prospective buyers should not anticipate significant fuel savings with the GX 550 compared to the GX 460. However, considering the GX 550’s substantial gains in horsepower (nearly 50 extra) and torque (150 extra ft.-lbs. of peak torque), maintaining comparable fuel consumption is an impressive achievement.
Interior Amenities: A Modernized Cabin Experience
In terms of interior dimensions and material quality, the GX 460 and GX 550 share similarities. Premium and Overtrail trims offer NuLuxe synthetic leather upholstery, while Luxury models feature genuine leather. In both generations, the leather quality is refined but not quite at the level of Lexus’ flagship sedans or coupes. Seating positions remain largely consistent between models. However, the generational differences in interior design and technology are significant.
The GX 460’s interior design, particularly the front row and dashboard, appears somewhat busy, especially with the integration of a smaller touchscreen atop the center stack in later models. The overall aesthetic can feel a bit cluttered. In contrast, the GX 550’s interior design prioritizes spaciousness and openness. Engineers and designers have streamlined the dashboard, flattened lines, lowered window sills, and repositioned the A-pillars and side-view mirrors to enhance visibility.
Beyond the enhanced sense of spaciousness, the GX 550 offers a wealth of standard technology, including a 14-inch Lexus Interface infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital instrument cluster, upgraded safety features, additional charging ports, and more. While some may prefer the tactile physical buttons for infotainment and climate controls in the GX 460, the GX 550’s modern approach is generally cleaner and more user-friendly. Furthermore, higher GX 550 trims offer appealing features such as massaging front seats and a panoramic moonroof with instant clear-to-opaque switching.
Visual Aesthetics: A Subjective Shift in Design Language
Aesthetic preference is inherently subjective. The GX 460 possesses a distinctive visual presence, characterized by its prominent spindle grille, which can appear proportionally large. However, Lexus and Toyota’s evolving design direction for the current decade appears to favor a more sculpted and minimalist front-end approach. The new GX 550 embodies this shift, presenting a design that evokes the boxy SUVs of the 1980s, reimagined for the 2020s. It moves away from the prominent grille dominating the design, presenting a more cohesive and subtly muscular aesthetic that conveys a sense of rugged capability and off-road readiness. For many, this represents a significant aesthetic improvement.
Pricing Considerations: Value and Investment
Current online listings indicate that new 2023 GX 460 models remain available at dealerships. Premium trims are generally priced in the low $60,000 range, while Luxury models range from the high $60,000s to mid $70,000s. Used GX 460 models are available at lower price points, with newer Luxury models starting in the low $60,000s.
For 2024 Lexus GX 550 pricing, refer to the official Lexus GX 550 Build & Price Configurator. During the press drive event, starting prices were observed around $66,000 for Premium models with limited options, low $70,000s for Overtrail trims, just under $80,000 for the Overtrail+, and approximately $85,000 for a fully optioned Luxury+ model.
In terms of cost, the GX 460, particularly lightly used models, remains the more budget-conscious option. Generally, the GX 550 carries a price premium of approximately $5,000 to $10,000 compared to a similarly equipped GX 460.
Final Verdict: Choosing Your GX
If the allure of a time-tested, ultra-reliable naturally aspirated V8 engine with a pleasing sound profile is paramount, the Lexus GX 460 remains a compelling choice, offering a comfortable and plush ride. Furthermore, it presents a more financially accessible entry point into the Lexus GX family.
However, when considering virtually every other aspect – towing capacity, acceleration, braking, ride quality, suspension technology, interior amenities, standard features, and off-road capability – the new Lexus GX 550 emerges as the objectively superior vehicle. Subjectively, the GX 550’s design is arguably more appealing, presenting a cleaner and more muscular aesthetic.
Ultimately, the optimal choice between the GX 460 and GX 550 depends on individual priorities and preferences.
Thank you for reading this comprehensive comparison.
Tags: ClubLexus Reviews, GX 460, GX 550, GX 550 vs GX 460, Lexus GX
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Michael S. Palmer
Michael S. Palmer began his career assisting and developing content for Academy Award-winning and studio-based film and television producers. He has been a professional writer since 2008, when he joined the Writers Guild of America West (WGAw). As a journalist and Content Editor/Manager, he has covered numerous emerging imaging, theatrical exhibition, home entertainment, and automotive technologies. He currently spends his days creating original content at the Internet Brands Automotive Group for some of the world’s largest online automotive communities, including Ford Truck Enthusiasts, CorvetteForum, ClubLexus, AudiWorld, and LS1Tech. He still owns his first car, a 1987 Mercury Cougar; adores driving his Boss 302 Mustang; and recently teamed with Chevrolet Performance, Holley, Magnaflow, Eaton, Wilwood, Michelin, Chemical Guys, Summit Racing to build his first project car. Installing an LS3 E-ROD Connect & Cruise system into a 1992 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon made his eight-passenger wagon faster than a C5 Corvette to 60mph and 50 state emissions legal. His wife and daughter are very patient.
