2023 Lexus GX Review: Built to Last

In an automotive world obsessed with touchscreens, electrification, and constant redesigns, the 2023 Lexus GX feels almost rebellious. While many luxury SUVs have evolved into sophisticated road-focused crossovers, the GX remains loyal to a formula that has largely disappeared from the market: a body-on-frame chassis, a naturally aspirated V8 engine, standard four-wheel drive, and genuine off-road capability.

That formula may sound outdated on paper, and in some ways it is. The second-generation GX traces its roots back more than a decade, making it one of the oldest luxury SUVs still on sale. Yet what makes the GX fascinating is that many buyers view its age as a strength rather than a weakness. In an era where complexity continues to increase, the Lexus offers something increasingly rare: proven durability, mechanical simplicity, and a reputation for reliability that few competitors can match.

The 2023 Lexus GX is not trying to be the most technologically advanced SUV in the segment. It is not trying to out-handle a BMW X5 or deliver the futuristic cabin of a Genesis GV80. Instead, Lexus built a vehicle designed to withstand years of family road trips, towing duties, harsh weather, and off-road adventures without complaint. For many buyers, that mission remains just as appealing today as it was a decade ago.

Behind its familiar styling lies a vehicle that can comfortably transport seven passengers, tow up to 6,500 pounds, and venture far beyond paved roads. Unlike many luxury SUVs that merely look rugged, the GX possesses genuine capability thanks to its truck-based architecture, permanent four-wheel-drive system, and proven off-road hardware.

What makes the GX particularly interesting in 2023 is that it arrives at the end of an era. This is one of the final opportunities to purchase a Lexus luxury SUV powered by a naturally aspirated V8 and built around traditional SUV engineering principles. That alone gives the GX a unique character that many modern competitors simply cannot replicate.

The result is a luxury SUV that feels increasingly special precisely because it refuses to follow industry trends. The 2023 Lexus GX may not be perfect, but it offers something many newer vehicles struggle to provide: authenticity. For buyers who value durability, capability, and long-term ownership satisfaction above the latest technological gimmicks, the GX continues to make a compelling case for itself.

Our Take

The 2023 Lexus GX succeeds because it understands exactly what it is.

Many aging vehicles become difficult to recommend as newer competitors surpass them in technology, efficiency, and refinement. The GX takes a different path. Rather than attempting to compete directly with modern luxury crossovers, it embraces its strengths and continues serving a specific type of buyer remarkably well.

What impresses us most is the vehicle’s honesty. The GX does not pretend to be a sporty luxury SUV. It does not chase lap times or rely on flashy technology to attract attention. Instead, it focuses on delivering durability, comfort, reliability, and genuine off-road capability. Those qualities have helped the model build one of the most loyal owner bases in the luxury market.

There are obvious compromises. Fuel economy is poor by modern standards, the cabin design shows its age, and several competitors offer more advanced technology. Buyers seeking cutting-edge innovation will likely find stronger options elsewhere.

Yet there is something refreshing about the GX. In a segment increasingly dominated by complex crossovers, it remains a true SUV with real character. For buyers who value long-term ownership, towing capability, and confidence beyond paved roads, the GX continues to offer an experience that few luxury rivals can match.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptional long-term reliability reputation
• Powerful and proven V8 engine
• Genuine off-road capability
• Comfortable ride quality
• Strong towing capacity
• Excellent resale value
• Standard four-wheel drive

Cons

• Outdated interior technology
• Poor fuel economy
• Third-row space is limited for adults
• Less refined on pavement than some rivals
• Aging platform shows its age in several areas

What’s New for 2023

The 2023 Lexus GX enters its final chapter largely unchanged, a reflection of Lexus’ confidence in a formula that has remained successful for more than a decade. While many competitors undergo constant redesigns and technological overhauls, the GX continues to focus on durability, capability, and long-term dependability.

For 2023, the most notable updates are found in the higher trims. The Luxury model now receives the excellent Mark Levinson premium audio system as standard equipment, delivering one of the best listening experiences available in the segment. Meanwhile, the limited-production Black Line Special Edition gains a new 360-degree camera system that improves visibility during both off-road adventures and everyday parking situations.

Lexus also updated several exterior color choices. Eminent White Pearl replaces the outgoing Starfire Pearl, while Claret Mica is discontinued. These changes are minor, but they help keep the GX visually fresh as it approaches the end of its lifecycle.

More importantly, 2023 remains one of the last opportunities to purchase a Lexus SUV powered by a naturally aspirated V8 engine. As the industry shifts toward turbocharging, hybridization, and electrification, the GX represents a type of vehicle that is rapidly disappearing from the market.

For some buyers, the lack of major changes may seem disappointing. For longtime GX enthusiasts, however, consistency is part of the appeal. The vehicle remains faithful to the qualities that built its reputation in the first place.

Exterior Design

Modern luxury SUVs often chase aggressive styling trends, oversized lighting signatures, and futuristic design elements. The 2023 Lexus GX takes a different approach. Its styling may be familiar, but it remains remarkably effective because it communicates exactly what the vehicle was designed to do.

The front fascia is dominated by Lexus’ signature spindle grille, which gives the GX a commanding presence on the road. Flanked by sharp LED lighting elements and a tall, upright hood, the design projects strength rather than sportiness. Even after years on the market, the GX still looks substantial and expensive.

Viewed from the side, the vehicle’s proportions immediately reveal its body-on-frame architecture. The upright greenhouse, tall roofline, and squared-off profile prioritize functionality over fashion. While some competitors adopt coupe-inspired rooflines that compromise practicality, the GX remains unapologetically SUV-like.

Large windows contribute to excellent outward visibility, a feature many modern luxury vehicles sacrifice in pursuit of style. The elevated seating position further reinforces the commanding feeling drivers experience behind the wheel.

The rear design is equally purposeful. The side-hinged tailgate remains one of the GX’s most distinctive features. Although it may not be as convenient as a traditional liftgate in every situation, it serves as a reminder of the vehicle’s off-road heritage and connection to Toyota’s globally respected Land Cruiser Prado.

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the GX’s design is how well it has aged. While some older vehicles begin to look dated as trends evolve, the GX continues to appear rugged, premium, and authentic. It may not attract attention with dramatic styling, but it possesses a timeless quality that many newer competitors struggle to achieve.

Driving Experience

The driving experience is where the Lexus GX truly separates itself from many modern luxury SUVs.

From the moment you pull away, it becomes obvious that the GX was engineered with a different philosophy. Most luxury crossovers today prioritize on-road refinement above everything else. The GX still feels like a traditional SUV, and for many buyers, that distinction is exactly what makes it appealing.

The naturally aspirated 4.6-liter V8 remains one of the vehicle’s defining characteristics. In an era dominated by turbocharged four-cylinder engines and increasingly complex hybrid systems, the GX delivers power with a smoothness that feels increasingly rare. Throttle response is immediate, acceleration is linear, and the engine produces a reassuring sense of effortless strength.

Unlike some modern turbocharged engines that can feel busy or artificial, the V8 operates with quiet confidence. It rarely feels strained, even when climbing steep grades, towing heavy loads, or carrying a full complement of passengers. The power delivery suits the personality of the GX perfectly.

The six-speed automatic transmission may not offer the ten-speed sophistication found in newer rivals, but it performs its duties smoothly and predictably. Gear changes are unobtrusive, and the transmission generally avoids unnecessary shifting during normal driving.

On city streets, the GX feels substantial. The steering is light enough for everyday maneuvering, though the vehicle’s size and truck-based architecture are always apparent. Drivers transitioning from a car-based luxury crossover will immediately notice the difference.

Ride quality is impressive considering the GX’s off-road credentials. The suspension absorbs rough pavement effectively, and the vehicle remains comfortable during daily commuting. The available adaptive suspension on higher trims further enhances comfort by smoothing out road imperfections before they reach the cabin.

Where the GX truly excels is during long-distance travel. The elevated seating position provides excellent visibility, the seats remain comfortable for hours at a time, and the cabin feels reassuringly solid. Highway cruising is relaxed and confidence-inspiring, even if wind noise is slightly more noticeable than in some newer luxury competitors.

Off the pavement, the GX transforms from a comfortable luxury SUV into something far more impressive. This is one of the few vehicles in its segment that possesses genuine off-road capability directly from the factory. Permanent four-wheel drive, generous suspension travel, low-range gearing, and durable underpinnings allow the GX to tackle terrain that would quickly overwhelm many luxury crossovers.

Mud, rocky trails, deep ruts, and challenging weather conditions barely faze the GX. This capability is not a marketing exercise or a styling package. It is real, usable hardware engineered for serious adventures.

That authenticity gives the GX a unique personality. While vehicles like the Genesis GV80, Lincoln Aviator, and Acura MDX may feel more modern on paved roads, few can follow the GX once the pavement ends.

Ultimately, the driving experience reflects everything the GX represents. It is not the fastest luxury SUV, nor the most technologically advanced. Instead, it delivers confidence, durability, comfort, and capability in a package that feels increasingly rare in today’s market. For buyers who appreciate traditional SUV engineering, the GX remains one of the most satisfying vehicles available.

Performance & Acceleration

The 2023 Lexus GX proves that raw specifications do not always tell the full story. On paper, its naturally aspirated 4.6-liter V8 and six-speed automatic transmission appear dated compared to the turbocharged engines and multi-speed gearboxes found in many rivals. Behind the wheel, however, the powertrain’s character becomes one of the vehicle’s greatest strengths.

Producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, the V8 delivers smooth and predictable acceleration. There is no turbo lag, no artificial engine sound enhancement, and no complicated hybrid system attempting to mask power delivery. Instead, the GX responds with a linear surge of torque that feels natural and reassuring.

The engine is particularly impressive during highway merging and passing situations. While some competitors generate larger horsepower figures, the GX never feels underpowered during everyday driving. Its power arrives in a calm and effortless manner that perfectly matches the SUV’s personality.

Towing performance remains another strong point. With a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds, the GX is more than capable of handling boats, campers, utility trailers, and recreational equipment. Buyers who regularly tow will appreciate the confidence provided by the V8’s broad torque curve and proven durability.

No, the GX is not a performance SUV. It was never intended to compete with high-output German luxury crossovers. What it offers instead is dependable, consistent performance that feels just as satisfying on a family road trip as it does on a remote mountain trail.

Ride Comfort & Cabin Refinement

One of the biggest surprises about the Lexus GX is how comfortable it remains despite its truck-based construction.

Body-on-frame SUVs often sacrifice ride quality in pursuit of capability, but Lexus spent years refining the GX to deliver a more luxurious driving experience. The result is a vehicle that manages to balance ruggedness and comfort remarkably well.

Over broken pavement, expansion joints, and rough roads, the suspension absorbs impacts with confidence. There is a sense of solidity to the way the GX moves that many crossover-based competitors struggle to replicate. Rather than feeling delicate or overly soft, the vehicle feels substantial and reassuring.

The elevated driving position contributes significantly to overall comfort. Drivers enjoy excellent visibility in every direction, making long journeys less stressful and improving confidence in crowded urban environments.

Cabin isolation remains impressive considering the age of the platform. Lexus engineers invested heavily in sound insulation, and it shows. Road noise is generally well controlled, while the V8 engine remains pleasantly subdued during normal driving.

Long-distance travel is where the GX shines brightest. The seats provide excellent support, the suspension settles comfortably at highway speeds, and the vehicle maintains a relaxed character even after several hours behind the wheel. This is the type of SUV that encourages road trips rather than simply tolerating them.

Luxury models equipped with adaptive suspension further improve ride quality, helping smooth out larger road imperfections and enhancing passenger comfort. The difference may not transform the vehicle entirely, but it does elevate the experience closer to what buyers expect from a premium luxury SUV.

While competitors such as the Genesis GV80 and Lincoln Aviator deliver slightly more refined on-road manners, the GX counters with a unique combination of comfort and durability that remains highly appealing.

Interior & Luxury Feel

The cabin of the 2023 Lexus GX tells two stories simultaneously.

The first story highlights the vehicle’s age. Certain design elements, switchgear layouts, and dashboard architecture clearly originate from an earlier era of automotive design. Buyers familiar with newer Lexus products will immediately notice that the GX lacks some of the visual sophistication found elsewhere in the lineup.

The second story is far more positive. Despite its age, the GX remains exceptionally well built. Materials feel durable, controls operate with precision, and the overall quality of construction reinforces Lexus’ reputation for long-term reliability.

Soft-touch surfaces cover much of the cabin, while available semi-aniline leather upholstery adds a premium touch in higher trims. Wood accents and metallic details contribute to the upscale atmosphere without appearing excessive or overly flashy.

Passenger space is another strength. The tall roofline creates excellent headroom throughout the cabin, while the boxy body design maximizes interior volume. Front-seat occupants enjoy generous accommodations, and the second row remains comfortable even for taller adults.

The third row is best viewed as occasional-use seating. Children will fit comfortably, while adults can tolerate shorter trips when necessary. This limitation is hardly unique to the GX, as many three-row luxury SUVs face similar challenges.

Perhaps the most appealing aspect of the GX interior is its simplicity. In a market increasingly dominated by massive screens and complex interfaces, the Lexus feels refreshingly straightforward. Important controls remain easy to locate, physical buttons remain available, and the learning curve is minimal.

For some buyers, that simplicity may feel old-fashioned. For others, particularly those planning to keep their SUV for many years, it may be one of the vehicle’s most attractive qualities.

Technology & Infotainment

Technology is one area where the age of the GX becomes most apparent, though Lexus made meaningful improvements before the end of this generation’s lifecycle.

The centerpiece of the cabin is a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system that finally brought Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration to the GX. This update significantly improved everyday usability and helped modernize the ownership experience.

Navigation, smartphone connectivity, media controls, and vehicle settings are all relatively straightforward to access. The graphics are clean and functional, even if they cannot fully match the visual sophistication of the newest luxury SUV systems.

Audio quality deserves special recognition. The available Mark Levinson premium audio system transforms the cabin into an excellent listening environment. Music enthusiasts will appreciate the system’s clarity, balance, and overall performance during long journeys.

The biggest criticism remains the interface itself. Some aspects of the system feel older than those found in newer Lexus products, and certain competitors offer faster processing speeds and more advanced digital features.

Yet the technology package remains functional and user-friendly. Most importantly, it avoids the frustration that can accompany overly complicated infotainment systems. Buyers prioritizing simplicity and reliability may actually prefer Lexus’ more conservative approach.

For a vehicle approaching the end of a long production cycle, the GX provides enough technology to satisfy most owners while staying true to its practical and dependable character.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is easily the Lexus GX’s biggest weakness, and there is no realistic way to avoid that conclusion.

The combination of a naturally aspirated V8 engine, permanent four-wheel drive, body-on-frame construction, and substantial weight results in fuel economy figures that lag well behind most modern luxury SUVs. Buyers prioritizing efficiency will quickly find stronger alternatives elsewhere in the segment.

In everyday driving, the GX rewards owners with smooth power delivery and proven durability, but those benefits come at the expense of fuel consumption. Vehicles such as the Genesis GV80, Lincoln Aviator, Volvo XC90, and even Lexus’ own newer models deliver significantly better efficiency.

The reality is that most GX buyers understand this trade-off before making a purchase. They are not choosing the vehicle because it offers class-leading fuel economy. They are choosing it because of its capability, reliability, towing strength, and long-term ownership appeal.

Viewed through that lens, the fuel economy becomes easier to accept. Still, it remains one of the few areas where the GX clearly trails its competitors.

Practicality & Cargo Space

Practicality has always been one of the Lexus GX’s strongest attributes.

The upright body design allows the cabin to maximize usable space in ways many stylish luxury crossovers cannot. Large windows, a tall roofline, and squared-off dimensions create an interior that feels airy and accommodating.

Storage throughout the cabin is thoughtfully designed. Door pockets are large, the center console is useful, and there are numerous locations for everyday items such as phones, water bottles, bags, and travel accessories.

Behind the third row, cargo space is modest but usable for groceries, backpacks, and smaller luggage. Fold the third row flat, however, and the GX becomes significantly more versatile. Folding both rear rows creates a large cargo area capable of handling furniture, camping equipment, bicycles, and other bulky items.

The side-hinged rear door remains one of the GX’s most unique features. Some owners love it because it provides convenient access in open areas and reinforces the vehicle’s rugged character. Others find it less practical in tight parking situations. Ultimately, whether it feels charming or inconvenient depends largely on how the vehicle is used.

For families who enjoy road trips, outdoor activities, towing, and adventure travel, the GX remains one of the most useful luxury SUVs available.

Safety & Driver Assistance

The 2023 Lexus GX may be one of the oldest luxury SUVs in its class, but it still delivers a reassuring level of safety technology and driver assistance features.

Every GX comes standard with Lexus Safety System+, a package that includes Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic High Beams, Blind-Spot Monitoring, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. Unlike some competitors that reserve advanced safety equipment for expensive trim levels, Lexus makes many of these technologies standard across the lineup.

What stands out most is how naturally these systems operate. The GX avoids the overly intrusive interventions that sometimes affect modern driver-assistance technologies. Warnings are clear without becoming annoying, and the systems generally support the driver rather than attempting to dominate the driving experience.

Adaptive Cruise Control performs particularly well during highway travel. Combined with the commanding seating position and excellent outward visibility, it helps reduce fatigue on longer journeys.

The vehicle’s body-on-frame construction also contributes to a strong sense of security. The GX feels substantial, solid, and confidence-inspiring from behind the wheel. That perception matters to many buyers, especially those transporting family members or regularly traveling in challenging weather conditions.

However, the GX does not quite match the latest generation of luxury SUVs in terms of advanced semi-autonomous driving technology. Newer competitors offer more sophisticated lane-centering systems, improved camera technology, and more advanced highway assistance features.

Even so, the GX remains a very safe and reassuring vehicle. Its combination of proven engineering, strong driver-assistance technology, and Lexus’ longstanding commitment to safety continues to make it an attractive option for families.

Competitors Worth Considering

Genesis GV80

The Genesis GV80 offers one of the most luxurious interiors in the segment and significantly more modern technology than the GX. It feels newer, more refined, and more sophisticated during everyday driving.

However, the GV80 cannot match the GX’s off-road capability, proven durability record, or body-on-frame toughness. Buyers who rarely leave paved roads may prefer the Genesis, while adventure-oriented owners will likely gravitate toward the Lexus.

Lincoln Aviator

The Lincoln Aviator focuses heavily on comfort and highway refinement. Its twin-turbocharged engine delivers stronger acceleration, while the cabin feels more contemporary and upscale.

The Lexus counters with better long-term reliability expectations, stronger resale values, and genuine off-road capability. The choice ultimately depends on whether buyers prioritize comfort or rugged versatility.

Land Rover Discovery

The Discovery is perhaps the GX’s most direct philosophical competitor. Both vehicles combine luxury accommodations with genuine off-road talent.

The Land Rover feels more modern and offers greater technological sophistication, but the Lexus maintains a substantial advantage in reliability and long-term ownership confidence. For many buyers, that difference alone is enough to choose the GX.

Acura MDX

The Acura MDX delivers sharper handling, a more modern cabin, and superior fuel economy. It is easier to live with in urban environments and offers more contemporary technology.

What it lacks is the GX’s rugged character. The MDX is a luxury crossover, while the GX remains a true SUV. Buyers looking for adventure capability and traditional SUV durability will likely find the Lexus more appealing.

The GX may not dominate every category, but it remains one of the most distinctive vehicles in the luxury SUV segment. Few competitors combine luxury, towing capability, off-road talent, and long-term dependability as effectively.

Which Trim Does Cardrav Recommend?

If we were spending our own money, the Premium trim would be our recommendation.

It strikes the best balance between price, comfort, luxury features, and overall value. Buyers gain meaningful upgrades over the base model without reaching the significantly higher pricing of the Luxury trim.

The Luxury model certainly adds desirable equipment, particularly when equipped with the Off-Road Package. Buyers planning serious trail use may find it worthwhile.

For most owners, however, the Premium trim delivers everything that makes the GX appealing in the first place: V8 power, four-wheel drive, strong capability, premium comfort, and Lexus reliability.

It represents the sweet spot of the lineup and the version we believe most buyers will be happiest owning long term.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?

The 2023 Lexus GX should not exist anymore.

At least that is what conventional automotive logic would suggest. It rides on an aging platform, uses a naturally aspirated V8, consumes more fuel than most rivals, and lacks some of the technology found in newer competitors.

Yet somehow, it remains one of the most appealing luxury SUVs on the market.

The reason is simple. Lexus never lost sight of what made the GX special. While the industry chased trends, the GX continued focusing on durability, capability, comfort, and long-term ownership satisfaction. Those qualities may not generate flashy headlines, but they matter enormously to real owners.

This is not the right luxury SUV for everyone. Buyers seeking cutting-edge technology, class-leading fuel economy, or sports-car-like handling should look elsewhere.

But for those who want a vehicle capable of towing a boat, tackling mountain trails, transporting a family, and potentially lasting hundreds of thousands of miles, the GX remains remarkably compelling.

More than a decade after this generation debuted, it still delivers something many newer SUVs struggle to replicate: genuine character.

Cardrav Rating: 8.9/10

FAQ

Is the 2023 Lexus GX outdated or timeless?

The answer depends on perspective. From a technology standpoint, the GX is undoubtedly older than most competitors. From a durability and capability standpoint, many buyers view it as timeless. Its traditional engineering and proven reliability are precisely why it remains so popular.

Is the Lexus GX more reliable than a Land Rover Discovery?

Historically, yes. Lexus consistently ranks among the most reliable luxury brands in the industry, while Land Rover has struggled with long-term reliability rankings. Buyers prioritizing ownership confidence often choose the GX for this reason alone.

Why do off-road enthusiasts still love the Lexus GX?

Unlike many luxury SUVs that merely look rugged, the GX offers genuine off-road hardware. Body-on-frame construction, permanent four-wheel drive, low-range gearing, and strong suspension components allow it to handle terrain that would challenge many competitors.

Should buyers wait for the redesigned Lexus GX?

That depends on priorities. Buyers wanting the latest technology and improved efficiency may prefer the newer generation. Buyers who specifically want the proven V8 engine and traditional character of the outgoing model may see the 2023 GX as the final opportunity to own a unique piece of Lexus history.

Is the V8 engine still worth buying in 2023?

For many enthusiasts, absolutely. The naturally aspirated V8 delivers smooth power, proven reliability, and a character that modern turbocharged engines often lack. Fuel economy suffers, but many GX buyers consider that an acceptable trade-off.

Can the Lexus GX serve as both a luxury family SUV and an off-road vehicle?

Yes, and that versatility remains one of its greatest strengths. Few vehicles can comfortably transport a family during the week, tow recreational equipment on weekends, and confidently tackle challenging trails when adventure calls.

What is the biggest reason to buy a Lexus GX instead of a luxury crossover?

Authenticity. Most luxury crossovers are designed primarily for paved roads. The GX remains a true SUV with genuine capability, proven durability, and a personality that feels increasingly rare in today’s market.