Considering GX550 as first Lexus purchase (Test Drive Impressions)

[Razor488]

My wife and I are seriously considering a GX550 to replace our BMW iX, which unfortunately has had some major mechanical issues forcing an early sale. We also currently own a 2015 GMC Yukon, which we plan to replace when the next generation comes out. We've never owned a Toyota or Lexus before, but we're both absolutely smitten with the GX550's exterior styling. It's just so darn cool!

We recently test drove a GX550 Premium Plus, and while I walked away a bit disappointed with some aspects (mainly the tech), I can't shake the desire to own one. I think it's that irresistible exterior design! Since we're leaning towards the Luxury Plus model (I'm a sucker for real leather), it's been a little frustrating that dealerships near me only have Premium Plus versions available for test drives. I'd love to experience the upgraded interior, the ride quality with the 22-inch wheels, and the adaptive suspension.

Coming from the BMW iX, the GX550's technology felt like a significant step down. The iX's iDrive screens are so much brighter and more vibrant. The HUD on the GX was also blurry – almost double vision. From the passenger seat, I had a hard time reading the speedometer in front of the driving position. Maybe that says something about the quality of the screen?

On the highway (cruising around 75 mph), the ride quality and road noise were perfectly acceptable. However, on a poorly maintained road, the ride was noticeably bumpy.

Did I mention how much I love the GX550's looks?

The infotainment screen is okay. I prefer the more horizontal layout of BMW's iDrive, but the GX's system is certainly better integrated than some of the "iPad glued to the dash" designs I've seen.

Even though I test drove the Premium Plus, I keep reminding myself that we're considering an $84k Luxury Plus. Honestly, the interior of the Premium Plus didn't quite feel like it belonged in a vehicle in that price range. Perhaps my expectations are a bit dated.

Our plan is to replace the Yukon with a newer model Tahoe/Yukon when the body style changes. The Lexus would primarily serve as a functional family hauler for my wife and two young children and replace the BMW. Space behind the second row seems ample for our needs.

Having never owned a Lexus/Toyota, I'm struggling to reconcile it with the luxury and technology I'm accustomed to in German cars. Comparing it to our larger and much older Yukon isn't really fair. From what I've read, the TX might actually be a better fit for our needs, but we simply don't like its styling. We're just drawn to the GX's rugged aesthetic.

I'm thinking I need to test drive the GX550 again and take a closer look at some of the things I mentioned. Any thoughts or insights from current owners, especially those who have experience with both German luxury brands and Lexus, would be greatly appreciated!

 

[jclaffee]

I have little to add, just amazed that you actually got to test drive one.

 

[Mac462]

I don’t have time to search for the video but there is one out there claiming the OT and OT+ are superior in ride quality to the others.

 

[BETN]

I went from a Mercedes GLE to the GX and while it’s not an apple to apple comparison I prefer the GX in every way. After having a Tahoe and another Lexus with leather seats I’ve decided I never want another car with leather seats. No amount of conditioning kept them from cracking, the Lexus was the worst. My Mtex seats in my GLE looked as good as they did the day I bought it, when I sold it after 160k miles. They are cooler than leather in the summer, wear better, and are easier to care for.

 

[Mike'sGX]

I went from a Mercedes GLE to the GX and while it’s not an apple to apple comparison I prefer the GX in every way.

Glad to see your comment on Mercedes. I'm in the process of going from a Mercedes ML to a Lexus GX Overtrail +.

 

[Diane]

My wife and I are seriously considering a GX550 to replace our BMW iX, which unfortunately has had some major mechanical issues forcing an early sale. We also currently own a 2015 GMC Yukon, which we plan to replace when the next generation comes out. We've never owned a Toyota or Lexus before, but we're both absolutely smitten with the GX550's exterior styling. It's just so darn cool!

We recently test drove a GX550 Premium Plus, and while I walked away a bit disappointed with some aspects (mainly the tech), I can't shake the desire to own one. I think it's that irresistible exterior design! Since we're leaning towards the Luxury Plus model (I'm a sucker for real leather), it's been a little frustrating that dealerships near me only have Premium Plus versions available for test drives. I'd love to experience the upgraded interior, the ride quality with the 22-inch wheels, and the adaptive suspension.

Coming from the BMW iX, the GX550's technology felt like a significant step down. The iX's iDrive screens are so much brighter and more vibrant. The HUD on the GX was also blurry – almost double vision. From the passenger seat, I had a hard time reading the speedometer in front of the driving position. Maybe that says something about the quality of the screen?

On the highway (cruising around 75 mph), the ride quality and road noise were perfectly acceptable. However, on a poorly maintained road, the ride was noticeably bumpy.

Did I mention how much I love the GX550's looks?

The infotainment screen is okay. I prefer the more horizontal layout of BMW's iDrive, but the GX's system is certainly better integrated than some of the "iPad glued to the dash" designs I've seen.

Even though I test drove the Premium Plus, I keep reminding myself that we're considering an $84k Luxury Plus. Honestly, the interior of the Premium Plus didn't quite feel like it belonged in a vehicle in that price range. Perhaps my expectations are a bit dated.

Our plan is to replace the Yukon with a newer model Tahoe/Yukon when the body style changes. The Lexus would primarily serve as a functional family hauler for my wife and two young children and replace the BMW. Space behind the second row seems ample for our needs.

Having never owned a Lexus/Toyota, I'm struggling to reconcile it with the luxury and technology I'm accustomed to in German cars. Comparing it to our larger and much older Yukon isn't really fair. From what I've read, the TX might actually be a better fit for our needs, but we simply don't like its styling. We're just drawn to the GX's rugged aesthetic.

I'm thinking I need to test drive the GX550 again and take a closer look at some of the things I mentioned. Any thoughts or insights from current owners, especially those who have experience with both German luxury brands and Lexus, would be greatly appreciated!

These have issues with windshields and rocks easily crack them … I have been driving my new gx550 90+ days. Over 500 windshields on backorder.

My next 3 complaints:

1. It sucks down gas vs my rx

2. The steps are loud and come out slowly. They hit my legs when I’m not paying attention at opening the doors as they come out .. I have to stand there to wait to get in.

3. Do not get the roof rack as cool as it looks… it’s super loud noise. If you do want one and can’t find one… I have a brand new one I can sell you.

 

[RPMSTL]

You hit on many of the highpoints - or low points - of the new GX.

It is not perfect, but most of us love it anyway. I have an OT+.

Ride quality is not luxurious - It reminds me of my sons Chevy 1/2 ton 4x4.
It does not soak up the little bumps and can have a washboard effect at times.

Interior is a little bland compared to lots of the competition.

Storage for little daily use things is practically non-existent.

The Cool Box (if equipped) is stupid and cannot be easily removed. I would much rather
have a simple console where I can install a safe.

Loves premium gas which is great when combined with a tiny tank.

On the plus side

The twin turbo v6 runs great. Always plenty of power for effortless cruising.
The Sport+ mode is quite fun.
The OT version handles much better than some other on frame vehicles I have.
The headlights are fantastic.
The lane assist (self steering) works well.
Traction in the wet and snow has been great so far.

 

[richord]

The fluttering hood is a real bad design! I half expect the hood to fly off one day. I'm about to reach out to my dealer to see how they react when I ask them to fix it. Hope the 2025's don't come with that "feature".

 

[jaytee]

My wife and I are seriously considering a GX550 to replace our BMW iX, which unfortunately has had some major mechanical issues forcing an early sale. We also currently own a 2015 GMC Yukon, which we plan to replace when the next generation comes out. We've never owned a Toyota or Lexus before, but we're both absolutely smitten with the GX550's exterior styling. It's just so darn cool!

We recently test drove a GX550 Premium Plus, and while I walked away a bit disappointed with some aspects (mainly the tech), I can't shake the desire to own one. I think it's that irresistible exterior design! Since we're leaning towards the Luxury Plus model (I'm a sucker for real leather), it's been a little frustrating that dealerships near me only have Premium Plus versions available for test drives. I'd love to experience the upgraded interior, the ride quality with the 22-inch wheels, and the adaptive suspension.

Coming from the BMW iX, the GX550's technology felt like a significant step down. The iX's iDrive screens are so much brighter and more vibrant. The HUD on the GX was also blurry – almost double vision. From the passenger seat, I had a hard time reading the speedometer in front of the driving position. Maybe that says something about the quality of the screen?

On the highway (cruising around 75 mph), the ride quality and road noise were perfectly acceptable. However, on a poorly maintained road, the ride was noticeably bumpy.

Did I mention how much I love the GX550's looks?

The infotainment screen is okay. I prefer the more horizontal layout of BMW's iDrive, but the GX's system is certainly better integrated than some of the "iPad glued to the dash" designs I've seen.

Even though I test drove the Premium Plus, I keep reminding myself that we're considering an $84k Luxury Plus. Honestly, the interior of the Premium Plus didn't quite feel like it belonged in a vehicle in that price range. Perhaps my expectations are a bit dated.

Our plan is to replace the Yukon with a newer model Tahoe/Yukon when the body style changes. The Lexus would primarily serve as a functional family hauler for my wife and two young children and replace the BMW. Space behind the second row seems ample for our needs.

Having never owned a Lexus/Toyota, I'm struggling to reconcile it with the luxury and technology I'm accustomed to in German cars. Comparing it to our larger and much older Yukon isn't really fair. From what I've read, the TX might actually be a better fit for our needs, but we simply don't like its styling. We're just drawn to the GX's rugged aesthetic.

I'm thinking I need to test drive the GX550 again and take a closer look at some of the things I mentioned. Any thoughts or insights from current owners, especially those who have experience with both German luxury brands and Lexus, would be greatly appreciated!

Traded in a 10 year old GX for the 550. I’m a Lexus fan. Love mine

 

[ColoradoOutdoors]

My wife and I are seriously considering a GX550 to replace our BMW iX, which unfortunately has had some major mechanical issues forcing an early sale. We also currently own a 2015 GMC Yukon, which we plan to replace when the next generation comes out. We've never owned a Toyota or Lexus before, but we're both absolutely smitten with the GX550's exterior styling. It's just so darn cool!

We recently test drove a GX550 Premium Plus, and while I walked away a bit disappointed with some aspects (mainly the tech), I can't shake the desire to own one. I think it's that irresistible exterior design! Since we're leaning towards the Luxury Plus model (I'm a sucker for real leather), it's been a little frustrating that dealerships near me only have Premium Plus versions available for test drives. I'd love to experience the upgraded interior, the ride quality with the 22-inch wheels, and the adaptive suspension.

Coming from the BMW iX, the GX550's technology felt like a significant step down. The iX's iDrive screens are so much brighter and more vibrant. The HUD on the GX was also blurry – almost double vision. From the passenger seat, I had a hard time reading the speedometer in front of the driving position. Maybe that says something about the quality of the screen?

On the highway (cruising around 75 mph), the ride quality and road noise were perfectly acceptable. However, on a poorly maintained road, the ride was noticeably bumpy.

Did I mention how much I love the GX550's looks?

The infotainment screen is okay. I prefer the more horizontal layout of BMW's iDrive, but the GX's system is certainly better integrated than some of the "iPad glued to the dash" designs I've seen.

Even though I test drove the Premium Plus, I keep reminding myself that we're considering an $84k Luxury Plus. Honestly, the interior of the Premium Plus didn't quite feel like it belonged in a vehicle in that price range. Perhaps my expectations are a bit dated.

Our plan is to replace the Yukon with a newer model Tahoe/Yukon when the body style changes. The Lexus would primarily serve as a functional family hauler for my wife and two young children and replace the BMW. Space behind the second row seems ample for our needs.

Having never owned a Lexus/Toyota, I'm struggling to reconcile it with the luxury and technology I'm accustomed to in German cars. Comparing it to our larger and much older Yukon isn't really fair. From what I've read, the TX might actually be a better fit for our needs, but we simply don't like its styling. We're just drawn to the GX's rugged aesthetic.

I'm thinking I need to test drive the GX550 again and take a closer look at some of the things I mentioned. Any thoughts or insights from current owners, especially those who have experience with both German luxury brands and Lexus, would be greatly appreciated!

That is a tough one. We have a 2025 ix M60 and there is no way the GX is going to come close to that odd looking BMW's tech, audio, user interface, comfort, convenience, power and handling. It is an incredible machine that BMW threw everything they know about building cars into. Build quality is high. Best BMW out of the several we have had (M5, X5M, X7 a few X5s and X3). Everything is easy about living with the iX.

That said, we will wave the EV bye-bye when the lease expires and the 2025 GX550 OT+ that we are waiting on will be bought, and held long term. I'm betting we will have better luck with an out of warranty GX than an out of warranty iX. iX speed runs depreciation, GX will do much better. We want capability (towing, light trail running) so we don't always have to take the diesel truck to Moab. Willing to put up with reduced tech and daily comfort for capability and longevity.

So I think it is a mindset change between those two vehicles. But if you replace your family haulers frequently, don't need offroad capability, but want something better looking than the, um, controversial looking iX, how about a X7 with latest tech and comfort!?

 

[Dr Bob]

OT +. Bottom line : It’s a body /frame. OT (+) drives best overall. Premium 2nd. Luxury worse with the 22” rims. My OT very smooth on highway but a little bumpy on not well maintained city streets. I’ve owned many cars (Mercedes, BMW, Lexus sedans , Toyotas, Porsche). Will not drive like a premium sedan. Remember it’s a truck. I had a 2002 LX 470 and a Toyota Land Cruiser 1995. The ride is a blend of the two. That said the 550 OT + is the best overall vehicle I’ve ever owned in terms of overall drive. I would buy it again in a heartbeat. They say you live longer when you smile a lot. I have a big smile on my face every time I get in my truck!

 

[Razor488]

That is a tough one. We have a 2025 ix M60 and there is no way the GX is going to come close to that odd looking BMW's tech, audio, user interface, comfort, convenience, power and handling. It is an incredible machine that BMW threw everything they know about building cars into. Build quality is high. Best BMW out of the several we have had (M5, X5M, X7 a few X5s and X3). Everything is easy about living with the iX.

That said, we will wave the EV bye-bye when the lease expires and the 2025 GX550 OT+ that we are waiting on will be bought, and held long term. I'm betting we will have better luck with an out of warranty GX than an out of warranty iX. iX speed runs depreciation, GX will do much better. We want capability (towing, light trail running) so we don't always have to take the diesel truck to Moab. Willing to put up with reduced tech and daily comfort for capability and longevity.

So I think it is a mindset change between those two vehicles. But if you replace your family haulers frequently, don't need offroad capability, but want something better looking than the, um, controversial looking iX, how about a X7 with latest tech and comfort!?

I would agree about the IX - it has been an amazing machine. Except for the fact we have had chronic drive train issues and have even retained an attorney to work it out with BMW.

One thing I forgot to meantion - the dashboard seemed very dim. Is it possible to turn up the brightness?

 

[rangertrace]

You seem to keep your cars a while so the Lexus should be a no brainer for longevity. If I ever own another BMW, it will have an extended warrant and will bo sold when it expires. BMWs drive better than anything I've ever owned, but I don't trust them past 70k miles.

 

[Razor488]

You seem to keep your cars a while so the Lexus should be a no brainer for longevity. If I ever own another BMW, it will have an extended warrant and will bo sold when it expires. BMWs drive better than anything I've ever owned, but I don't trust them past 70k miles.

Thanks. Ya if I recall, the extended IX warranty seemed to be vague and still written for an ICE vehicle. Regardless, the car keeps stranded us on the roadway so its not even a warranty issue at this point - we just don't trust it to get us from point A to point B. BTW I see you're in Bedford - I am in Southlake. I think we are going to get the GX from Sewell in Fort Worth.

 

[kscarrol]

Yes, have 75k on the X3 that the GX is replacing. Had a 2011 BMW M3 for 87k (10years) before that. Looking forward to the change. No vehicle is perfect...

 

[ColoradoOutdoors]

I would agree about the IX - it has been an amazing machine. Except for the fact we have had chronic drive train issues and have even retained an attorney to work it out with BMW.

That's a bummer. Seems to be hit or miss on that car. Either nothing goes wrong or it is plagued. Luck of the draw.

 

[TexasD-90]

I have such a hard time understanding the complaints of some people here. I am an admitted car addict. I’ve owned dozens of Land Rover, Toyota, gmc, Chevy, ford and jeep vehicles. I’ve never driven or ridden in a vehicle I like more than the GX550 (admittedly, the LX600 rides better and is more plush, and a Prius gets better fuel economy). This platform was built to satisfy a customer that isn’t looking for an LX or an RX. To compare them to each other is silly. If you are looking for a vehicle that looks amazing, rides great and will take you just about anywhere you want to go in style….. the GX550 won’t disappoint. If you’re looking for fuel economy get a Prius if you’re looking for ultimate luxury get an LX600. I just don’t understand buying a $75k+ vehicle and then complaining. Understand what you are buying before you drop that much coin on anything.

For reference, I build luxury homes in a very luxury market. When people move in there is always a “blue tape” list. That doesn’t mean I’m not providing a good product, that means my buyer and I both want everything to be as good as it can be. Perfect, no, but I believe we deliver a superior product at a good value. Similar to Lexus!

Do your research and then buy with confidence. Any new vehicle is going to have something that needs to be fixed, especially a new model. I sure want to deal with a company like Lexus to resolve any issues.

My $.02. Worth what you paid for it!

 

[rangertrace]

Thanks. Ya if I recall, the extended IX warranty seemed to be vague and still written for an ICE vehicle. Regardless, the car keeps stranded us on the roadway so its not even a warranty issue at this point - we just don't trust it to get us from point A to point B. BTW I see you're in Bedford - I am in Southlake. I think we are going to get the GX from Sewell in Fort Worth.

I'm sure I will see you around then. We sleep in Bedford, but we do everything else in Colleyville and Southlake.....Have you tried the pork shank at Muchacho yet? It will change your life!!

 

[Razor488]

I'm sure I will see you around then. We sleep in Bedford, but we do everything else in Colleyville and Southlake.....Have you tried the pork shank at Muchacho yet? It will change your life!!

I go there all the time but I always get fajitas... I will try the pork shank!

 

[rangertrace]

I go there all the time but I always get fajitas... I will try the pork shank!

We went there for the first time about 2 years ago and the owner of Texas Gun Experience was there. He told me to try it back then and it wasn't until a month or two that I finally tried it. It's amazing.