#Lexus #Lexusgx #Lexuslx #gx550 #overtrail #lx700h
After testing both the GX and LX #offroad I am absolutely surprised by the differences between these two #bodyonframe #suv #luxury overlanders.
Following its much-anticipated debut in 2024, the Lexus GX sees several standard features added to its lineup in 2025, including a one-inch suspension lift now standard on Overtrail and Overtrail+ grades.
Redesigned from the ground up to inspire customers to pursue their urge to travel, take an unpaved path, and revel in the joy of driving, the GX brings intuitive technology, thoughtful interior touches, and continued off-road prowess that Lexus guests have come to expect.
Lexus enthusiasts have long praised the GX’s legendary off-road capability and its ability to tackle rough terrain, taking customers comfortably from errands to remote spaces. The GX is offered in six grades: Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+, Overtrail and Overtrail+.
The 2025 GX shares the GA-F platform introduced on the current-generation LX. This strong and lightweight ladder frame increases body rigidity and improves on-road handling, key elements of Lexus Driving Signature. The platform is optimally engineered to withstand twisting off-road forces, maximize suspension performance, create stable wheel articulation and consistent tire contact, all while maintaining in-cabin stability. This strengthened frame also empowers owners to carry their Lexus dealer available accessories and gear, such as rooftop tents, recovery kits and more available through the Associated Accessory Parts (AAP) Program.
A double-wishbone front suspension is paired with a multi-link rear suspension to achieve both a high level of off-road driving performance and on-road prowess. An available Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) constantly adjusts damping forces based on changing road conditions. GX also features Electronic Power Steering (EPS) enabling increased steering feel on and off-road.
Evolved Engine: 3.4-L Twin Turbo V6 and Direct Shift-10AT
The GX comes standard with a highly capable and efficient twin-turbocharged 3.4L V6 engine paired with a 10-speed Direct Shift Automatic Transmission, and an EPA-estimated highway fuel economy rating of 21 MPG. The twin-turbo V6 produces 349 horsepower, outperforming the previous generation V8’s 301 horsepower, and torque output also rises to a massive 479 lb.-ft. The twin turbochargers deliver steady and consistent acceleration to easily control power delivery in both on and off-road scenarios. Towing capacity is up to 9,063 lbs. for Premium, Premium+, Overtrail+ grades and 9,096 lbs for the Overtrail grade with the standard tow hitch receiver.
Legendary Off-Road Performance
The GX has been known for its off-road prowess since the beginning, and the 2025 GX continues that legacy. Full-Time 4WD is standard for consistent responsiveness in varied terrain and in 2025, a one-inch suspension lift is now standard exclusively on the Overtrail and Overtrail+ grades, increasing the minimum running ground clearance to 9.84 inches.
Critical for off-road activities, the Torsen® limited-slip locking center differential is standard on all GX models, evenly splitting the engine’s power 50:50 to help provide exceptional control in low grip situations and prevent excess wheel spin. When accelerating during a turn, the Torsen® differential optimally distributes the driving force according to the load on the rear left and right wheels to achieve controlled performance. In straight-line driving, it responds well to changes in road conditions, contributing to overall vehicle stability.
For additional coverage, the Overtrail and Overtrail+ grades exclusively offer an electronically controlled locking rear differential, activated by a console-mounted switch, that splits the power evenly between the left and right rear wheel to help the wheels turn at the same speed. And, in certain situations, the locking rear differential is designed to ensure the power is directed to the wheel with traction.
The 2025 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail and Overtrail+ have standard Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) that provides a high level of balance between off-road drivability and on-road handling stability. This system locks and unlocks the front and rear stabilizer bars to assist with control and enhanced wheel articulation. Depending on driving conditions, speed, steering input and the Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) setting chosen by the driver, the system can independently lock or unlock the front and rear stabilizer bars as needed.
