Click for more.
Lexus, the luxury brand of Toyota, said today in a release from Plano, Texas that the 2026 Lexus GX SUV carries over from the prior model year.* (The 2026 GX is assembled at the Tahara plant in Japan, and as such is subject to the tariff whims of the bumbling Trump administration – AutoCrat).
“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+,” Lexus said.
Click to enlarge.
The 2026 GX shares the GA-F platform introduced on the current-generation LX. This ladder frame design increases body rigidity and improves on-road handling, key elements of Lexus Driving Signature, according to the release. The platform is said to be 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 lets owners 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 followed with a multi-link rear suspension to achieve a high level of off-road driving performance and on-road competence. An optional Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) adjusts damping forces based on changing road conditions. GX also has Electronic Power Steering (EPS) with claimed increased steering feel on and off-road.
Tweaked Engine: 3.4-L Twin Turbo V6 and Direct Shift-10AT
The GX comes standard with a twin-turbocharged 3.4L V6 engine paired with a 10-speed Direct Shift Automatic Transmission. The EPA-estimated highway fuel economy rating is 21 MPG. The twin-turbo V6 produces 349 horsepower, outperforming the previous generation V8’s 301 horsepower, and torque output also rises to 479 lb.-ft. Towing capacity is up to 9063 lbs. for Premium, Premium+, Overtrail+ grades and 9096 lbs. for the Overtrail grade with the standard tow hitch receiver.
The 2026 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail and Overtrail+ have standard Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) that provides a 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 greater 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.
Crawl Control can be engaged when the vehicle is in low range (L4) and allows the GX to move forward or in reverse at one of five-driver selected low speed settings. Crawl Control manages engine output and hydraulic braking pressure to help reduce tire slippage and optimize chassis behavior. The GX has up to a 26-degree approach, 24-degree breakover and 21-degree departure angles.
The Multi-Terrain Select system is designed to provide optimized drive power, hydraulic brake pressure and suspension control according to the selected mode. L4 has four modes: Auto, Sand, Mud and Rock. H4 has five modes: Auto, Dirt, Sand, Mud and Deep Snow. When MTS is on, the Multi-Terrain Monitor is engaged to assist the driver with increased visibility under and around the vehicle when driving off-road. The Multi-Terrain Monitor uses four cameras within the Panoramic View Monitor System (PVM) to transpose underfloor, front, side and rear-view camera images shown to the 14-inch display, allowing the driver to check road conditions, blind spots and distance between obstacles.
The GX has the driver-focused cockpit design also seen in the RX and RZ. A low, horizontal instrument panel design carries into the dash. It is said “to provide a clean, open space that seamlessly connects the available Head-Up Display (HUD) to the center where the standard 14-inch Multimedia Touchscreen Display with Lexus Interface technology can be found. Physical dials for frequently used controls such as air conditioning and audio volume remain, and all available off-road controls are concentrated near the gear shifter to help minimize potential driver distraction. The GX comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, as well as a digital 12.3 Multi-Information Display (MID).”
With seating for up to seven (Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+), the GX incorporates a power tilt-and-telescopic steering column and Lexus Memory System for the driver seat, outer mirrors and steering column.
The second row is available in two configurations: captain’s chairs or a 60:40 split-folding bench (Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+). A “one-motion tumble system” allows access to the third row/luggage space. Heated and ventilated outboard seats are standard in the driver and front passenger seats, with optional heated second-row seats. The third row is available in both power and manual seat configurations.
The earth-tone focused interior color design is intended to complement the nature. The GX is available in both a semi-aniline leather and NuLuxe® trimmed interior in Black, Dapple Gray, or Saddle Tan with black or dark brown grained trim. Overtrail grades are available in a color combination of Black NuLuxe® trimmed interior with Olive Ultrasuede® accents or Chateau NuLuxe® trimmed interior with Olive Ultrasuede accents and black ornamentation.
Six illuminated charging ports (four in Overtrail and Overtrail+) are available throughout and a wireless charger is in the front console tray. Interior storage space includes the center console, door pockets and up to 12 cup holders. Luggage space for both the second and third row configurations holds up to 5 suitcases with the 3rd row folded. Two additional storage spaces are located under the cargo area to accommodate smaller items. A 120V AC inverter is for additional power needs and in 2026, prewired auxiliary switches and an onboard air compressor become standard on the Overtrail and Overtrail+ grades.
The GX comes standard with a 10-speaker premium sound system with an optional 21- Speaker Mark Levinson® Surround Sound. Additional options (depending on grade) include Digital Key** with SmartAccess Card Key, Cool Box, Head-Up Display, Traffic Jam Assist**, Cold Area Package and Tonneau Cover.
A standard 14-inch, high-definition touchscreen provides easy-to-use controls and clear information to the driver and front-seat passenger. The glass screens use what’s called a high-adhesion, anti-reflective coating to realize a vivid display. Menu operations are similar to those found on smartphones and tablets. For additional ease of use by driver and front passenger, a center knob located at the screen’s bottom edge controls power on/off and volume.
Cloud Navigation**
With an active Drive Connect trial or subscription, this 100% cloud-capable system integrates with Google points of interest (POI) data to provide faster and more up-to-date search results, more accurate directions, and alternate routes based on current traffic conditions. Offline mode is designed to detect a potential loss of signal and download applicable maps and services in advance.
Intelligent Assistant**
With an active Drive Connect trial or subscription, Intelligent Assistant offers convenience for guests. Designed with dual microphones, enhanced noise cancellation and seat detection capabilities for greater voice-recognition accuracy, by simply saying “Hey Lexus,” available voice commands can operate certain interior amenities, such as navigation, multimedia, and climate control.
Digital Key (optional)** & SmartAccess Card Key
With an active Remote Connect trial or subscription, guests can utilize their compatible smartphone as a vehicle key through the Lexus app. The available Digital Key can allow for the control of door locks and enables additional usability when car sharing, during valet parking, or home delivery of packages. The Digital Key can be shared with up to seven additional guests, creating a convenient experience for users registered on the Lexus App.
Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ Compatibility
The Lexus GX features standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ capability, which enables users to access many of their favorite apps and control menus via their preferred mobile device ecosystem. The wireless capability allows for up to five Bluetooth® devices to be registered to the system, with up to two devices connected at any one time.
Remote Connect**
With an active Remote Connect trial or subscription, the Lexus app can be used to remotely lock or unlock the doors, start the vehicle and adjust the climate control, check vehicle health.
Safety Connect**
Owners can use their up to five-year Lexus Safety Connect trial for access to exceptional service in case of emergency/vehicle theft.
Service Connect**
Available via the Lexus app, the up to five-year Service Connect trial can connect a compatible Lexus and dealer to provide detailed maintenance reminders and Vehicle Health Reports.
Head-Up Display (Optional)
Essential information such as a speedometer and shift position, and other information including navigational directions and the information displayed during the use of Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, and Road Sign Assist, can be safely displayed in front of the driver’s field of vision. The display’s positioning can be linked to a driver’s seat position memory function.
Mark Levinson® Surround Sound (Optional)
The available 21-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound tuned for the GX’s cabin delivers high-quality audio. The system incorporates Mark Levinson QLS (Quantum Logic Surround) sound technology to provide stage-like, full-bodied, balanced tones to all passengers regardless of seating position.
Traffic Jam Assist (Optional )**
With an active Drive Connect trial or subscription, this available technology can monitor surrounding traffic in condensed, low-speed driving situations on limited access highways and automatically move forward and brake as needed to keep a set following distance behind the preceding vehicle. In addition to providing hands-free steering assistance, this system is designed to automatically bring the vehicle to a complete stop, then resume its path of travel as forward traffic begins to move.
Lexus Safety System + 3.0
All GX models come standard with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, an integrated suite of active safety equipment and convenience features.
Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection – Designed to help detect a vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist and provide an audio/visual forward collision warning under certain circumstances. If the driver does not react, the system is designed to provide automatic emergency braking at speeds between approximately 7-110 mph. PCS uses a camera and millimeter-wave radar for enhanced performance and reliability.
- Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist – Designed to provide additional steering torque during an emergency maneuver initiated by the driver, enhancing vehicle stability and helping prevent lane departure. This steering support function is designed to operate when the Pre-Collision System is turned ON, the turn signal is not being operated, the speed of the vehicle is between 25-50 mph and the relative speed to the detected object is between 25-50 mph.
- Left Turn Oncoming Vehicle Detection/Braking – Designed to provide a warning and automatic braking if the system determines a driver is turning left in front of an oncoming vehicle in certain daytime conditions.
- Full-speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) – An adaptive cruise control system intended for highway use that uses radar and camera technology to help keep the vehicle at a preset speed and distance from vehicles ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic. If the system detects the vehicle getting closer than the preset distance, it is designed to automatically slow the vehicle — even to a complete stop. At highway speeds, when the road ahead clears, the vehicle returns to its preset speed.
- Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) – When DRCC is enabled and lane markers are detected, LTA uses the lines on the road and/or preceding vehicles to provide active driving assistance and help keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
- Emergency Driving Stop System (EDSS) – If the system detects no driver input for some time, audible warnings will alert the driver. If no further inputs are detected, EDSS brings the vehicle to a gradual stop while keeping it safely in lane and hazard lights are activated to warn other road users. EDSS only operates when driving on expressways with DRCC and LTA activated.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA) – When white/yellow lane markings or certain road edge boundary lines are detected at speeds above 32 mph, LDA w/SA is designed to issue an audio/visual lane departure warning if an inadvertent lane departure is detected. If the driver does not take corrective action, the system is also designed to provide gentle corrective steering for lane keeping assistance.
- Road Sign Assist (RSA) – Using an intelligent camera, RSA is designed to detect speed limit signs, stop signs, Do Not Enter signs, yield signs and certain warning signs, and display an icon of the sign on the Multi-Information Display (MID).
- Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) – When system operating conditions are met, using the vehicle’s camera and radar, PDA provides gentle braking into curves or gentle braking and/or steering to help support driving tasks such as distance control between the vehicle and a preceding vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist.
*AutoInformed on
**Inevitable Lexus Footnotes: Available by subscription. 4G network dependent. See lexus.com/interface for details.
First Look – the 2026 Lexus GX SUV
Click for more.
Lexus, the luxury brand of Toyota, said today in a release from Plano, Texas that the 2026 Lexus GX SUV carries over from the prior model year.* (The 2026 GX is assembled at the Tahara plant in Japan, and as such is subject to the tariff whims of the bumbling Trump administration – AutoCrat).
“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+,” Lexus said.
Click to enlarge.
The 2026 GX shares the GA-F platform introduced on the current-generation LX. This ladder frame design increases body rigidity and improves on-road handling, key elements of Lexus Driving Signature, according to the release. The platform is said to be 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 lets owners 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 followed with a multi-link rear suspension to achieve a high level of off-road driving performance and on-road competence. An optional Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) adjusts damping forces based on changing road conditions. GX also has Electronic Power Steering (EPS) with claimed increased steering feel on and off-road.
Tweaked Engine: 3.4-L Twin Turbo V6 and Direct Shift-10AT
The GX comes standard with a twin-turbocharged 3.4L V6 engine paired with a 10-speed Direct Shift Automatic Transmission. The EPA-estimated highway fuel economy rating is 21 MPG. The twin-turbo V6 produces 349 horsepower, outperforming the previous generation V8’s 301 horsepower, and torque output also rises to 479 lb.-ft. Towing capacity is up to 9063 lbs. for Premium, Premium+, Overtrail+ grades and 9096 lbs. for the Overtrail grade with the standard tow hitch receiver.
The 2026 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail and Overtrail+ have standard Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) that provides a 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 greater 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.
Crawl Control can be engaged when the vehicle is in low range (L4) and allows the GX to move forward or in reverse at one of five-driver selected low speed settings. Crawl Control manages engine output and hydraulic braking pressure to help reduce tire slippage and optimize chassis behavior. The GX has up to a 26-degree approach, 24-degree breakover and 21-degree departure angles.
The Multi-Terrain Select system is designed to provide optimized drive power, hydraulic brake pressure and suspension control according to the selected mode. L4 has four modes: Auto, Sand, Mud and Rock. H4 has five modes: Auto, Dirt, Sand, Mud and Deep Snow. When MTS is on, the Multi-Terrain Monitor is engaged to assist the driver with increased visibility under and around the vehicle when driving off-road. The Multi-Terrain Monitor uses four cameras within the Panoramic View Monitor System (PVM) to transpose underfloor, front, side and rear-view camera images shown to the 14-inch display, allowing the driver to check road conditions, blind spots and distance between obstacles.
The GX has the driver-focused cockpit design also seen in the RX and RZ. A low, horizontal instrument panel design carries into the dash. It is said “to provide a clean, open space that seamlessly connects the available Head-Up Display (HUD) to the center where the standard 14-inch Multimedia Touchscreen Display with Lexus Interface technology can be found. Physical dials for frequently used controls such as air conditioning and audio volume remain, and all available off-road controls are concentrated near the gear shifter to help minimize potential driver distraction. The GX comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, as well as a digital 12.3 Multi-Information Display (MID).”
With seating for up to seven (Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+), the GX incorporates a power tilt-and-telescopic steering column and Lexus Memory System for the driver seat, outer mirrors and steering column.
The second row is available in two configurations: captain’s chairs or a 60:40 split-folding bench (Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+). A “one-motion tumble system” allows access to the third row/luggage space. Heated and ventilated outboard seats are standard in the driver and front passenger seats, with optional heated second-row seats. The third row is available in both power and manual seat configurations.
The earth-tone focused interior color design is intended to complement the nature. The GX is available in both a semi-aniline leather and NuLuxe® trimmed interior in Black, Dapple Gray, or Saddle Tan with black or dark brown grained trim. Overtrail grades are available in a color combination of Black NuLuxe® trimmed interior with Olive Ultrasuede® accents or Chateau NuLuxe® trimmed interior with Olive Ultrasuede accents and black ornamentation.
Six illuminated charging ports (four in Overtrail and Overtrail+) are available throughout and a wireless charger is in the front console tray. Interior storage space includes the center console, door pockets and up to 12 cup holders. Luggage space for both the second and third row configurations holds up to 5 suitcases with the 3rd row folded. Two additional storage spaces are located under the cargo area to accommodate smaller items. A 120V AC inverter is for additional power needs and in 2026, prewired auxiliary switches and an onboard air compressor become standard on the Overtrail and Overtrail+ grades.
The GX comes standard with a 10-speaker premium sound system with an optional 21- Speaker Mark Levinson® Surround Sound. Additional options (depending on grade) include Digital Key** with SmartAccess Card Key, Cool Box, Head-Up Display, Traffic Jam Assist**, Cold Area Package and Tonneau Cover.
A standard 14-inch, high-definition touchscreen provides easy-to-use controls and clear information to the driver and front-seat passenger. The glass screens use what’s called a high-adhesion, anti-reflective coating to realize a vivid display. Menu operations are similar to those found on smartphones and tablets. For additional ease of use by driver and front passenger, a center knob located at the screen’s bottom edge controls power on/off and volume.
Cloud Navigation**
With an active Drive Connect trial or subscription, this 100% cloud-capable system integrates with Google points of interest (POI) data to provide faster and more up-to-date search results, more accurate directions, and alternate routes based on current traffic conditions. Offline mode is designed to detect a potential loss of signal and download applicable maps and services in advance.
Intelligent Assistant**
With an active Drive Connect trial or subscription, Intelligent Assistant offers convenience for guests. Designed with dual microphones, enhanced noise cancellation and seat detection capabilities for greater voice-recognition accuracy, by simply saying “Hey Lexus,” available voice commands can operate certain interior amenities, such as navigation, multimedia, and climate control.
Digital Key (optional)** & SmartAccess Card Key
With an active Remote Connect trial or subscription, guests can utilize their compatible smartphone as a vehicle key through the Lexus app. The available Digital Key can allow for the control of door locks and enables additional usability when car sharing, during valet parking, or home delivery of packages. The Digital Key can be shared with up to seven additional guests, creating a convenient experience for users registered on the Lexus App.
Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ Compatibility
The Lexus GX features standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ capability, which enables users to access many of their favorite apps and control menus via their preferred mobile device ecosystem. The wireless capability allows for up to five Bluetooth® devices to be registered to the system, with up to two devices connected at any one time.
Remote Connect**
With an active Remote Connect trial or subscription, the Lexus app can be used to remotely lock or unlock the doors, start the vehicle and adjust the climate control, check vehicle health.
Safety Connect**
Owners can use their up to five-year Lexus Safety Connect trial for access to exceptional service in case of emergency/vehicle theft.
Service Connect**
Available via the Lexus app, the up to five-year Service Connect trial can connect a compatible Lexus and dealer to provide detailed maintenance reminders and Vehicle Health Reports.
Head-Up Display (Optional)
Essential information such as a speedometer and shift position, and other information including navigational directions and the information displayed during the use of Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, and Road Sign Assist, can be safely displayed in front of the driver’s field of vision. The display’s positioning can be linked to a driver’s seat position memory function.
Mark Levinson® Surround Sound (Optional)
The available 21-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound tuned for the GX’s cabin delivers high-quality audio. The system incorporates Mark Levinson QLS (Quantum Logic Surround) sound technology to provide stage-like, full-bodied, balanced tones to all passengers regardless of seating position.
Traffic Jam Assist (Optional )**
With an active Drive Connect trial or subscription, this available technology can monitor surrounding traffic in condensed, low-speed driving situations on limited access highways and automatically move forward and brake as needed to keep a set following distance behind the preceding vehicle. In addition to providing hands-free steering assistance, this system is designed to automatically bring the vehicle to a complete stop, then resume its path of travel as forward traffic begins to move.
Lexus Safety System + 3.0
All GX models come standard with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, an integrated suite of active safety equipment and convenience features.
Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection – Designed to help detect a vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist and provide an audio/visual forward collision warning under certain circumstances. If the driver does not react, the system is designed to provide automatic emergency braking at speeds between approximately 7-110 mph. PCS uses a camera and millimeter-wave radar for enhanced performance and reliability.
*AutoInformed on
**Inevitable Lexus Footnotes: Available by subscription. 4G network dependent. See lexus.com/interface for details.
About Ken Zino
Ken Zino, editor and publisher of AutoInformed, is a versatile auto industry participant with global experience spanning decades in print and broadcast journalism, as well as social media. He has automobile testing, marketing, public relations and communications experience. He is past president of The International Motor Press Assn, the Detroit Press Club, founding member and first President of the Automotive Press Assn. He is a member of APA, IMPA and the Midwest Automotive Press Assn. He also brings an historical perspective while citing their contemporary relevance of the work of legendary auto writers such as Ken Purdy, Jim Dunne or Jerry Flint, or writers such as Red Smith, Mark Twain, Thomas Jefferson – all to bring perspective to a chaotic automotive universe. Above all, decades after he first drove a car, Zino still revels in the sound of the exhaust as the throttle is blipped during a downshift and the driver’s rush that occurs when the entry, apex and exit points of a turn are smoothly and swiftly crossed. It’s the beginning of a perfect lap. AutoInformed has an editorial philosophy that loves transportation machines of all kinds while promoting critical thinking about the future use of cars and trucks. Zino builds AutoInformed from his background in automotive journalism starting at Hearst Publishing in New York City on Motor and MotorTech Magazines and car testing where he reviewed hundreds of vehicles in his decade-long stint as the Detroit Bureau Chief of Road & Track magazine. Zino has also worked in Europe, and Asia – now the largest automotive market in the world with China at its center.