If you had the opportunity to write to Lexus regarding factory changes for your GX 550, what would you change or add?!!! (3 Viewers)

[MDV]

The GX 550 is an incredible machine, but it definitely feels like the interior designers didn't fully sync with the engineering team on how people actually use these rigs for road trips and overlanding. Cargo management is a huge talking point.

We actually started Wheels Feels in Houston precisely because we wanted to address some of these factory limitations on the new platforms. When we were 3D-scanning the GX trunk to build our modular storage units, we noticed a few areas where owners could use a bit more help:

- Leveling out the floor: A perfectly flat, carpet-lined top platform makes a massive difference if you are trying to mount a fridge securely or setup a clean sleeping space, matching the OEM look without sacrificing daily utility.
- Utilizing factory mounting points: Lexus gave us good cargo tie-down locations, so we engineered our setups to bolt directly into them using stock hardware. No drilling into a brand-new truck, but you get a completely rigid, rattle-free system.
- Secure, hidden storage: Instead of loose bags or plastic bins sliding around on washboard roads, heavy-duty locking drawers and modular dividers keep tools and recovery gear locked in place and hidden from plain sight when the hatch is closed.

Lexus builds a solid foundation, but adding a permanent, precision-fit interior upgrade really unlocks what this truck can do on trail weekends.

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Curious to see what everyone else would change about the cargo layout! Let us know if you need any specific dimensions or layout ideas while planning your builds.

P.S. - we’re running a Father’s Day Special with 20% OFF this week.

Do we need you in every thread?

 

[pnwgx550]

The following are my thoughts on how I would improve my GX550 Overtrail+:

1. Dual Zone Climate Control for rear seat passengers as well as HVAC vents in ceiling or B-pillars for rear seat passengers and HVAC vents in ceiling for cargo area.
2. Split tailgate with upward opening upper section and downward folding lower section as incorporated on previous generation Toyota Land Cruisers and Lexus LXs.
3. Larger fuel tank (ideally 25 gallons).

 

[rocksallday]

Wow! So many opinions here!

Should we somehow split it to- reasonable expectations / great if can be engineered / maybe this isn't the car for this? (yes I know everyone will have different opinions on this too)

For example, more storage spaces, simpler massage seat menu system, HUD that works with sunglasses, and decent sound quality would be in my list of reasonable expectations. Like if Lexus doesn't fix these things I think the brand is not going to stay here for long.

Larger fuel tank, more engine options, sliding 2nd row seats would be great if can be engineered while maintaining the car's capabilities (front locker, anyone?). I've read somewhere the fuel tank size is somehow regulated, at least here in California, but I don't really know, which is why I'm listing these as great if possible.

Self leveling rear? I mean so many people here are replacing the suspension as soon as they buy the car, isn't this an option more suited for the LX?
Am I the only one who wants the car to be mechanically simpler? More analog? More push buttons instead of screens? I want a reliable off-road capable car. I'll take the LC500 or LX700 to the opera.

 

[Yrag57]

Wow! These contributors are really squared away with their suggestions. I especially like those regarding cup holders and center console expansion. But my biggest request for improving an otherwise terrific SUV must be about the climate control system. Why build rocket science into something as basic as hot/cold and fresh or recirculating air?
These are simple things that everyone views a little differently. And it shouldn’t take reading a manual to accomplish a comfortable temperature.
There are dozens of threads with folks either expressing their frustrations with it, or trying to explain how they’ve adjusted theirs to their satisfaction.
Simple works just fine, even in a luxury vehicle.
The only other suggestion I would make is to design the windshield with a five degree more acute angle that could bounce most rocks off without cracking it. Or, at least offer the bug guard for the hood in North America. You already built it and sell them in Australia. Just send a boat load our way too. It might even help with the hood flutter issue.
Besides those things, I love my GX550. Just give the engineers a day off and bring in one good ol’ boy and two ladies with Prada bags. Perfection is achievable!

Replying to my own original post: one other thing I’ve had some issues with on my ‘24 GX: the fuel door. It doesn’t open wide enough to stay open by gravity and has no spring to hold it open by tension. It simply flops. A one mph breeze will blow it nearly shut while you’re trying to get the gas nozzle into position for filling. It just acts cheap.