The Lexus GX has always been that luxury brute, loved by those who needed serious off-road capability, but with the comfort and pomp of a luxury sedan. Now, for 2025, Lexus decided to reinvent the beast, swapping the good old V8 for a twin-turbo V6. Did this shit work out?
I personally look at this change with a bit of skepticism, but also curiosity. The promise is more efficiency without losing power. And, let’s be honest, in times when the V8 is becoming a legend, the twin-turbo V6 seems like the natural path, even if it hurts some purists’ hearts. But Lexus doesn’t mess around when it comes to refining the onboard experience, right?
Engine and Performance: Does the Twin-Turbo V6 Surprise?
The biggest controversy, without a doubt, is replacing the 4.6-liter V8 engine with the new 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6. Many frowned upon it, but the numbers on the spec sheet demand respect. It’s 354 horsepower and a brutal 476 lb-ft of torque, available already at low RPMs. That, my friends, is more power and torque than the old V8. Some still celebrate the return of legendary V8s in pickups, but in the luxury SUV world, the trend is different.
The pairing of this engine with a 10-speed Direct-Shift automatic transmission and permanent all-wheel drive with a Torsen differential promises agile performance both on and off the road. The 0 to 60 mph acceleration in about 6.5 seconds is impressive for an SUV of this size and weight. It’s proof that downsizing, when done right, can deliver results, damn it!
Engine Specifications:
- Engine: 3.4-liter V6 (3,445 cc), twin-turbo, 24 valves, DOHC with VVT-i
- Maximum Power: 354 hp at 5,200 rpm
- Maximum Torque: 476 lb-ft (650 Nm) between 2,000 and 3,600 rpm
- Transmission: 10-speed Direct-Shift automatic
- Drive: Permanent all-wheel drive (4×4) with Torsen® differential and electronic lock
- Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): Approx. 6.5 seconds
Fuel Economy: More Efficient on Paper?
With a smaller and more modern engine, the expectation is improved fuel economy. The EPA estimate indicates reasonable averages for a vehicle of this size and capability. In the city, around 15 mpg, on the highway about 21 mpg, and combined 17 mpg. These numbers make sense, but real-world off-road use or heavy-foot driving might tell a very different story. Either way, it’s a step forward compared to the previous V8. While some SUVs pursue electrification to save gas, the GX bets on the efficiency of its gasoline engine.
Dimensions and Capacities: A Versatile Giant
The 2025 GX keeps its imposing size, over 16 feet long and with considerable width. The 112-inch wheelbase ensures good interior space. What really impresses are its off-road credentials, especially in the Overtrail trims, with up to 8.7 inches of ground clearance and decent approach and departure angles to tackle obstacles. It’s an SUV that isn’t afraid to get its tires dirty. Compared to other off-road giants, the GX holds its own.
The towing capacity of up to 8,000 pounds is a strong point for those who need to haul trailers, boats, or other heavy stuff. And the trunk? Damn, with the third row folded, it turns into a mini truck, with over 77 cubic feet of cargo space. Too bad that with all seven seats in use, the space is quite limited, but that’s typical for three-row SUVs.
Key Numbers:
- Length: 197.1 inches (5,005 mm)
- Width (with mirrors): 83.2 inches (2,114 mm)
- Height: 75.4 to 76.2 inches (1,915 to 1,935 mm)
- Wheelbase: 112.2 inches (2,850 mm)
- Ground Clearance: Up to 8.7 inches (220 mm) (Overtrail)
- Towing Capacity: Up to 8,000 lbs (3,629 kg)
- Cargo Volume: 10.3 cu ft (7 seats) / 40.1 cu ft (5 seats) / 76.9 cu ft (2 seats)
- Seating Capacity: 7 or 5 passengers
Chassis and Suspension: True Off-Road DNA
The Lexus GX keeps its body-on-frame platform (separate chassis and body), which is essential for its robustness and off-road capability. While many luxury SUVs have moved to unibody construction (more comfort on asphalt, less off-road aptitude), the GX preserves its roots. Independent front suspension and a solid rear axle with multi-link are a classic combo built to withstand rough use. More urban SUVs like the Audi Q5 prioritize on-road comfort, but the GX has a different mission.
The available adaptive suspension (AVS) helps balance daily comfort with the firmness needed on rough terrain. Electric power steering is expected, and ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels ensure safety. It’s a mechanical package focused on durability and the ability to overcome obstacles, without being a nuisance in the city.
Technology and Safety: Luxury and Modernity Onboard
Here, the 2025 GX takes a quantum leap. The interior was completely redesigned, integrating huge screens and state-of-the-art systems. The central 14-inch screen with Lexus Interface and the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster put the GX on the same technological luxury level as its competitors. It has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, premium sound system (with an optional Mark Levinson 21-speaker setup that will make this thing really shake!), and even a Head-Up Display on higher trims. A level of luxury and tech that rivals the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600.
On safety, the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 package is very complete, with everything you expect in a car this level: adaptive cruise control, lane assist, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitor, 360-degree camera. And for off-road, systems like Downhill Assist Control and Crawl Control make the driver’s life easier in extreme situations. It’s technology for both comfort and trail, damn!
According to Lexus, the new electronic architecture allows smoother integration between safety and assistance systems, making the driving experience safer and more intuitive. You can find more details about Lexus technology on the official site.
Technology and Safety Highlights:
- Multimedia System: 14-inch screen with Lexus Interface
- Instrument Cluster: 12.3-inch digital display
- Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- Sound Systems: 10 speakers (standard) or Mark Levinson® 21 speakers (optional)
- Driver Assistance: Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (Pre-Collision, ACC, Lane Assist, etc.)
- Off-Road Features: Downhill Assist Control, Crawl Control
The technological evolution of the GX is remarkable. It’s not just a rugged vehicle; it has become a modern, safe command center, even for the harshest terrains. It’s the union of raw power with artificial intelligence, what a thing.
Trims and Prices: How Much Does This Ride Cost?
In the international market (referencing the U.S.), the 2025 Lexus GX is offered in several trims, from the most luxurious to off-road focused (Overtrail). The starting price is around $64,250. This amount can vary significantly depending on the trim and optional features chosen. To get an idea, high-performance SUVs like the 2026 BMW XM cost significantly more, but they aim for a different market.Direct Competitors: Who Does the 2025 GX Face?
The 2025 Lexus GX competes in a specific niche: luxury SUVs with real off-road capability. Its main rivals include:
Main Competitors:
- Land Rover Defender 110/130: Strong off-road, iconic design, upscale interior.
- Toyota Land Cruiser (if available in the market): Platform sibling, focused more on pure ruggedness.
- Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Icon of luxury and off-road, but at a much higher price point.
- BMW X5 / Mercedes-Benz GLE (off-road packages): More focused on street comfort and luxury, with limited off-road capability compared to the GX.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Common Questions About the 2025 Lexus GX:
- What type of drive does the 2025 Lexus GX have?
It has permanent all-wheel drive (4×4) with a limited-slip center Torsen® differential and electronic lock.
- Does the 2025 Lexus GX have 7 seats?
Yes, the standard configuration seats 7 passengers. Some trims, like the Overtrail, can be configured for 5 passengers to optimize cargo space and weight.
- What is the towing capacity of the new GX?
The maximum towing capacity is up to 8,000 lbs (3,629 kg).
- Is the twin-turbo V6 more powerful than the previous V8?
Yes, the new twin-turbo V6 delivers 354 hp and 476 lb-ft of torque, surpassing the figures of the old 4.6-liter V8.
Look, honestly, Lexus did a damn good job on this new generation of the GX. They managed to modernize the car, improve performance (yes, the V6 is stronger!), add a ton of tech, and apparently keep the off-road essence that has always defined the model. Losing the V8 stings a bit for some, but the efficiency and torque delivery of the twin-turbo are undeniable.
And you, what do you think about the new 2025 Lexus GX? Do you think swapping the V8 for the twin-turbo V6 was the right move? Leave your comment below and let’s chat!
Author: Fabio Isidoro
Fabio Isidoro is the founder and editor-in-chief of Canal Carro, where he has been writing about the automotive world since 2022. Passionate about cars and technology, he began his journey on the HospedandoSites portal and today dedicates himself to creating technical content and comprehensive analyses of national and international vehicles. 📩 Contact: contato@canalcarro.net.br