Automakers know they need a legitimate 3-row family hauler to compete in today’s American car market. Unfortunately, the last attempt by Lexus didn’t hit the mark. The stretched RX L fizzled almost immediately, and now the company is trying again. The 2024 Lexus TX is a brand-new SUV based on the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander. Slated to be the first Lexus built at Toyota Motor’s Indiana manufacturing facility, the automaker designed the TX exclusively for North America.
Lexus will offer three main configurations for the 2024 TX: the gas-only TX 350, the hybrid TX 500h, and the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) TX 550h+. Four trim levels will be available depending on the powertrain, including Standard, Premium, Luxury, and F Sport Performance. The gas and hybrid variants will go on sale in the fall of 2023, while the PHEV model will come later. Lexus estimates that fuel economy ranges from 21 to 30 mpg combined, and the plug-in drivetrain delivers up to 33 miles of all-electric range.
Though its bodywork is unique, the TX can’t escape its Grand Highlander roots. It features a blacked-out D-pillar that brings a “floating” roof look, and its side profile leans to the boxy end of the spectrum like its Toyota counterpart. At the same time, the SUV has plenty of Lexus DNA, including its new grille design, which the automaker says is a throwback to its earlier models.
Lexus says it optimized the front-end shape for aerodynamic performance and better engine cooling. A lightbar that runs under the edge of the hood connects the headlights. Wheel sizes range from 20 to 22 inches, and the TX features L-shaped taillights with a light bar that stretches from side to side on the rear liftgate.
Three interior color schemes are available in the new TX, including “peppercorn,” “birch,” and black. Every row of seats has its own dedicated storage space. Depending on the trim, buyers can opt for a second-row bench or captain’s chairs, and the seats offer power-folding and sliding movement to allow easy access to the third row.
Where many 3-row SUVs fall short is on cargo space and third-row usability, but Lexus promises a spacious “way-back” seat and generous cargo space. The area behind the third-row seats offers 20.1 cubic feet of space, but that increases to 57.4 cubic feet with the third row folded and 97 cubic feet with the second row also folded flat. The second-row center console is also removable and offers storage for larger items like a tablet or purses.
Lexus offers three powertrain options for the 2024 TX. The base gas engine is a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder making 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. The automaker pairs it with an 8-speed automatic transmission and front- or all-wheel drive (AWD).
The mid-range TX 500h comes with a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine and an electric motor that combine for 366 hp and 409 pound-feet of torque. A 6-speed automatic transmission and AWD are standard. It is available exclusively in F Sport Performance trim. The TX 500h has a unique AWD system and a rear-steer function that improves low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability. At highway speeds, the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the fronts, while around town, they turn opposite, which tightens the turning radius.
Moving up to the range-topping TX 500h+, buyers get a 3.5-liter V6 with a plug-in hybrid system and a continuously variable automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard here as well. System output is 406 hp, but Lexus hasn’t yet defined torque specs. The PHEV also offers 33 miles of electric driving range, though Lexus hasn’t disclosed charging specs yet.
The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 comes standard on the new TX. It includes features like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Pedestrian detection and a proactive driving-assistance system are also standard, which alert the driver to a person or vehicle near the TX. Lexus offers an advanced parking system that facilitates perpendicular and parallel parking, and the subscription-based Drive Connect system works with traffic-jam assist to brake and maintain distance between vehicles in low-speed conditions.
As of this writing, neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has crash-tested the new TX.
Lexus has improved its infotainment offerings in recent years, ditching the clunky, dark interface it used for years in favor of a lighter, more responsive system with more features and over-the-air updates. The system in the TX runs on a 14-inch touchscreen, which brings wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It pairs with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.
A head-up display and 21-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound audio system are available. Every TX has three power outlets and seven USB charging/communication ports, providing power and connectivity to each row.
Additionally, Lexus uses its unique digital latch door system on the new TX. The new e-Latch system swaps mechanical handle linkages for a push-button system.
The 2024 Lexus TX will have several heavy-hitting family haulers to contend with, including the Lincoln Aviator. That SUV is expected to receive a facelift in 2024 and will likely pick up new tech. The BMW X7 is another solid alternative, offering supreme luxury, and two higher-end performance models are available, including the Alpina-massaged XB7. Buyers will also likely consider the Mercedes-Benz GLS, which should get a refresh in 2024.
Mazda may be the dark horse competitor in the segment, as the new CX-90 3-row SUV sports hybrid powertrains and straddles the line between mainstream and luxury brands. That said, its third row may not be as accommodating as the TX’s. The Aviator is also available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, but the Mercedes and BMW only feature mild-hybrid systems, which don’t offer the same fuel economy benefits.
Lexus is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of June 8, 2023, but it may have changed since that date. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker’s website or your local dealership.
Chris Teague is an experienced writer in the automotive and technology fields. In addition to JDPower.com, his work appears at Forbes, The Drive, Your Test Driver, and others.
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