Sunday Drive: Luxury meets adventure in the 2024 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail Edition
We always tend to gravitate to an SUV that merges rugged capability with luxurious interior refinement. So, we were super excited to spend some time in the all-new 2024 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail Edition, a vehicle that brings unparalleled off-road performance to the Lexus family without sacrificing the comfort and elegance we would expect.
Lexus has reimagined the GX lineup for 2024, and this Overtrail Limited Edition really stood out in our minds and proved itself exactly what we would have expected during our weeklong test drive.
Designed to conquer tough trails while coddling its occupants, it’s an SUV for those who want adventure and indulgence all wrapped us with a nice little bow.
First impressions: A bold exterior
The GX 550 Overtrail had a robust, boxy design that, like its counterpart in the Toyota line the Land Cruiser, instantly signaled its off-road intentions. From the moment it arrived in our driveway, its rugged charm turned heads.
It wears a more muscular stance than its predecessors, with bold fender flares, a black grille, and an aggressive front fascia. Lexus has blended its signature styling with functional overlanding elements, including 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, tow hooks and reinforced skid plates.
Our test model came in “Earth,” a deep, striking earth-tone color that looked perfectly at home on rugged backroads. Lexus didn’t skimp on detail either, with blacked-out accents and sharp LED headlights that gave it a modern, upscale feel.
While most GX trims maintain their polished Lexus elegance, the Overtrail Edition leans into a purposeful look that appeals mostly to adventurer seekers.
Interior comfort: Rugged meets refined
Inside the Overtrail Edition, the GX 550 blended premium craftsmanship with durable materials ideal for both luxury and utility. Stepping in, we were met with beautiful synthetic leather (NuLuxe) upholstery accented by earthy tones and thoughtful stitching.
The cabin was very rugged yet still retaining all the refined options we have become accustomed to in a Lexus. They also included durable surfaces that can withstand wear from off-roading without feeling cheap.
Comfort was paramount. The front seats were heated, ventilated and incredibly supportive, which proved perfect for our longer drives across any terrain.
The Overtrail seats five passengers, with ample room for the second row to stretch out. The rear cargo space was surprisingly generous, and with the rear seats folded, we had all the room we needed for gear, groceries or travel bags.
Technology abounded inside the GX. At the center of the dash was a 14-inch touch-screen display featuring Lexus’ intuitive multimedia system. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a premium 10-speaker Mark Levinson audio system made every drive enjoyable.
Voice controls and wireless charging rounded out the convenience features. Lexus’ cabin design remained serene and quiet thanks to exceptional sound insulation and included acoustic glass.
Off-road capabilities: Trail-ready performance
Lexus designed the Overtrail Edition for serious off-road enthusiasts, and it did not disappoint us. Under the hood was a new 3.4-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine, producing 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque — significantly more powerful and efficient than the outgoing V-8. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the GX delivered smooth and confident power whether we were climbing steep hills or cruising the highway.
The Overtrail came equipped with a full-time four-wheel-drive system and an impressive suite of off-road features, including a locking rear differential and crawl control. During our test drive, we ventured onto rocky trails near Springville, and the GX tackled every challenge with ease.
The Multi-Terrain Select system allowed us to adjust settings for mud, sand or rock, enhancing traction and stability on varying surfaces. Ground clearance was impressive, and the Overtrail’s skid plates added a level of confidence while navigating rugged paths.
We were also introduced to downhill assist control, which maintained a steady speed on steep descents, making off-roading feel effortless. For those considering towing, the GX 550 boasts an impressive 9,000-pound towing capacity, ideal for hauling trailers, boats or off-road toys.
On the road: Smooth and composed
While the GX 550 Overtrail proved to be a star off the beaten path, it also delivered a surprisingly refined on-road driving experience. Lexus engineers have fine-tuned the suspension for comfort, ensuring a smooth and composed ride on pavement. On the highway, the GX felt stable and quiet, and the engine’s power made passing other vehicles a breeze.
Handling was improved thanks to Lexus’ new Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS), which optimized wheel articulation during off-road maneuvers while maintaining comfort during daily driving.
While the GX remains a body-on-frame SUV, its ride quality and noise isolation were remarkably refined — qualities not often found in off-road-focused vehicles.
Fuel economy had also improved compared to previous generations. The GX 550 achieves an estimated 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway, which is respectable for a luxury SUV of this size and capability.
Safety and technology: A Lexus standard
Lexus had packed the GX 550 with its latest suite of driver-assistance features, offering peace of mind both on and off the road. The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. The 360-degree camera system proved to be particularly useful when navigating tight trails or parking in crowded lots.
For off-roaders, the GX featured Multi-Terrain Monitor, which used cameras to display views around the vehicle, helping drivers see obstacles near the wheels. This was incredibly useful during our off-road tests, where visibility of rocks and uneven surfaces was limited.
At the end of the week: An adventure-ready luxury SUV
The 2024 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail Edition blended the rugged performance of an off-road vehicle with the luxury and sophistication expected from Lexus. Whether you’re navigating mountain trails, towing weekend toys or embarking on a family road trip, the GX 550 delivered versatility, comfort and capability in a package that felt both premium and practical.
For adventure seekers who refuse to compromise on luxury, the Overtrail Edition hits the mark. Lexus has created an SUV that feels just as at home in the wild as it does in the city — ready for wherever the road, or trail, may lead.
Base price: $83,225
Destination charge: $1,350
As driven: $84,575
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- The 2024 Lexus GX Overtail Edition.
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- Inside the 2024 Lexus GX Overtail Edition.
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- The 2024 Lexus GX Overtail Edition.
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- Inside the 2024 Lexus GX Overtail Edition.
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- The 2024 Lexus GX Overtail Edition.
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- The 2024 Lexus GX Overtail Edition.
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- Inside the 2024 Lexus GX Overtail Edition.
