Why the 2026 Lexus GX Proves That Refinement Still Sells

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The newly redesigned Lexus GX continues to capture strong attention in the luxury SUV market, with sales figures reflecting its growing popularity. Year-to-date sales have surged by an impressive 35.7%, reaching 28,244 units within the first nine months of the year. This performance places the GX close to surpassing the Lexus ES sedan, a long-time favorite in the brand’s lineup. The significant sales growth shows that consumers are responding positively to the SUV’s rugged design, refined interior, and modern technology features.

2026 GX

As the GX moves into the 2026 model year, Lexus has chosen to maintain the existing design and equipment without introducing any new updates. This decision might come as a surprise to some, especially since the 2025 version received a few small upgrades such as a power tilt-and-telescopic steering column and an additional 25 mm of ride height for the off-road-focused Overtrail variant. Despite the lack of changes for 2026, pricing has increased slightly. The base model now starts at $66,935, up from $66,185 previously. The $750 price bump applies across all trims and includes the $1,450 destination fee, which remains unchanged from last year. Analysts suggest that the higher cost is largely due to tariffs, as the GX is built in Japan at Lexus’ Tahara plant and imported to other markets.

Lexus GX

In terms of equipment, the 2026 Lexus GX continues to offer a blend of luxury and capability. Standard features include LED headlights, a power liftgate, and a moonroof for added comfort and convenience. The SUV rides on stylish 20-inch alloy wheels and comes equipped with a factory-installed tow hitch, allowing it to tow up to 4,126 kilograms. Inside, the cabin maintains its upscale appeal with a 12.3-inch digital instrument display paired with a large 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Other interior highlights include a leather-wrapped steering wheel, ambient interior lighting, and heated and ventilated NuLuxe front seats designed for year-round comfort. A premium 10-speaker sound system rounds out the list of luxury features.

2026 Lexus GX

Under the hood, the GX is powered by a robust twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine that produces 349 horsepower and 649 Nm of torque. It’s mated to a ten-speed automatic transmission and a full-time four-wheel-drive system. This setup enables the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 96 km/h in just 6.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 175 km/h. Fuel efficiency remains respectable for its class, with EPA estimates of 15 mpg in the city, 21 mpg on the highway, and 17 mpg combined.

Safety remains a cornerstone of the Lexus brand, and the GX comes equipped with the comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ 3.0. This suite includes Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, and Road Sign Assist. 2026 Lexus GX550

Additional safety technologies include a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Proactive Driving Assist, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Intuitive Parking Assist with Auto Braking. Altogether, these features make the 2026 Lexus GX not only a powerful and stylish SUV but also one of the safest and most dependable options in its segment.

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