The 2025 Lexus GX550 isn't just a luxury SUV with a rugged face—it’s a hardcore off-roader reborn. After more than a decade of minimal changes, Lexus has finally unleashed a completely redesigned GX, and it’s aiming squarely at buyers who want Toyota LandCruiser Prado reliability with a premium Lexus twist.
We put the new GX550 to the test on Aussie soil, navigating through rugged bush trails, open highways, and urban streets to see if this luxury 4x4 lives up to its high expectations.
🚙 Overview – What’s New in the 2025 Lexus GX550?
The 2025 Lexus GX550 is a ground-up redesign that replaces the previous-generation GX460. Key upgrades include:
- A new TNGA-F body-on-frame platform (shared with the 300 Series LandCruiser)
- 3.4-litre twin-turbo V6 (replacing the old 4.6L V8)
- A more modern, boxy design inspired by Lexus' "Overtrail" concept
- Completely revamped interior with 14-inch touchscreen and digital displays
- Full-time 4WD system, Torsen centre diff, and multiple terrain modes
Lexus is no longer shy about calling this an off-road beast wrapped in leather and tech.
🧱 Exterior Design – Rugged Meets Refined
The 2025 GX550 looks like a proper adventure machine with its boxy proportions, squared-off fenders, and upright stance.
- Overtrail trims add beefy black cladding, skid plates, and all-terrain tyres
- Signature Lexus spindle grille is now wider and less aggressive
- Rear end adopts a cleaner look with a full-width LED light bar
- Massive 33-inch tyres (on Overtrail variants) and 20–22 inch wheels on Luxury trims
The stance alone signals this is no soft-roader. It means business in the bush but still looks classy at the valet.
💺 Interior – Luxe Cabin Meets Adventure Utility
Inside, the GX550 is pure Lexus—crafted materials, quiet ambience, and intelligent layout.
Key cabin features include:
- 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Panoramic sunroof, 10-speaker audio, or optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson system
- Leather and Ultrasuede trim (Overtrail), Semi-Aniline leather (Luxury variants)
- Third-row seating option for 7-seat configuration
- 60:40 split-folding seats, ample cargo room (especially with third row folded)
Even with its off-road capability, the cabin screams comfort for the long haul.
🔧 Engine, Transmission & Performance
Under the bonnet lies a 3.4-litre twin-turbo V6, shared with the Toyota Tundra and Sequoia in the US. It replaces the outgoing 4.6L V8.
Key Specs:
- Power: 260kW
- Torque: 650Nm
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Full-time 4WD with low-range
Despite dropping two cylinders, the GX550 is quicker, more efficient, and smoother than its predecessor.
The V6 pulls strongly even when fully loaded, and the 10-speed gearbox finds the right gear effortlessly, especially in off-road conditions.
🏞️ Off-Road Capability – Built for Aussie Trails
We put the GX550 Overtrail through a demanding off-road test loop in the Victorian High Country, and it never missed a beat.
Off-Road Highlights:
- Crawl Control: Functions like low-speed cruise control for steep descents or loose terrain
- Multi-Terrain Select: Adjusts power, suspension, and traction for sand, mud, rock, or snow
- Electronic locking rear diff
- Adaptive Variable Suspension
- Skid plates, extra ground clearance (up to 9.1 inches/230mm)
The GX tackled rocky climbs, river crossings, and steep inclines without ever feeling strained. It offers serious Prado-rivalling 4WD chops, with more refinement.
🚗 On-Road Comfort – Luxury Where It Counts
Despite its off-road credentials, the GX550 doesn’t forget its Lexus DNA. On tarmac, it offers a serene ride with minimal road or wind noise.
- Adaptive suspension soaks up rough patches and potholes
- Confident body control despite its height
- Direct steering for a body-on-frame SUV
Whether cruising the highway or doing the school run, the GX feels calm and composed, unlike most rugged 4x4s.
🛡️ Safety Features – Top-Tier Protection
The GX550 comes loaded with the latest Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Keep Assist and Lane Tracing Assist
- Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- 360-degree camera with off-road visibility modes
- Trailer Sway Control for towing heavy loads
Expect a strong ANCAP safety rating once local testing is completed.
📦 Practicality – Towing, Storage, Seating
Towing Capacity:
- Up to 3,500kg braked towing
Perfect for hauling a camper trailer, jet ski, or boat on your next escape.
Boot Space:
- Approx. 650L behind second row
- Expands to over 1,800L with seats folded flat
- Powered tailgate, side-opening rear door (Overtrail), or conventional liftgate (Luxury trims)
You won’t be short on space whether loading up camping gear or Costco runs.
📲 Technology & Connectivity
- Wireless charging pad
- USB-C ports for all three rows
- Cloud-based navigation and over-the-air updates
- Lexus Connected Services app for remote start, tracking, climate pre-conditioning
The tech suite rivals European competitors and feels slicker than previous Lexus systems.
💰 Pricing & Variants in Australia (Expected)
While Lexus Australia hasn’t announced final pricing at the time of writing, here’s what we expect:
| Variant | Estimated Price (AUD) |
|---|---|
| GX550 Luxury | $110,000–$115,000 |
| GX550 Overtrail | $120,000–$125,000 |
| GX550 Overtrail+ | $130,000+ |
Expect a premium over the LandCruiser Prado, but less than a LandCruiser 300 GR Sport or Range Rover Sport.
🛠️ Maintenance & Ownership
Lexus continues to offer some of the most reliable ownership experiences in the luxury world.
- 5-year/unlimited km warranty
- Complimentary servicing for 3 years/45,000km
- Lexus Encore Platinum membership includes valet service, loan cars, and roadside assistance
That peace of mind matters, especially in remote areas.
🆚 GX550 vs Rivals – How Does It Stack Up?
Here’s how the Lexus GX550 compares to some rivals:
| Model | Power | Towing | Luxury Level | Off-Road Capability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lexus GX550 | 260kW | 3,500kg | High | Excellent |
| Toyota Prado 2025 | 243kW | 3,500kg | Medium | Excellent |
| Land Rover Defender | 294kW | 3,500kg | High | Very Good |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee L | 210kW | 2,800kg | Medium | Average |
| BMW X5 xDrive40d | 250kW | 3,500kg | Very High | Light trails only |
GX550 strikes a great balance between off-road ability and real luxury, undercutting Euro SUVs in price and outshining them off-road.
🧭 Verdict – Who Should Buy the 2025 Lexus GX550?
If you want a luxury SUV that can:
✅ Tackle hardcore trails
✅ Tow your caravan or boat
✅ Pamper you on long road trips
✅ Look sleek on the driveway
...the 2025 Lexus GX550 is a top contender.
It bridges the gap between rugged Toyota capability and refined Lexus luxury. Whether you’re a weekend adventurer or a grey nomad planning the big lap, the GX550 is more than ready.
📌 Final Thoughts
The 2025 Lexus GX550 is one of the most exciting and capable luxury off-road SUVs to hit Aussie roads in years. It ditches the outdated formula, upgrades everything—from platform to tech—and boldly announces that Lexus is here to dominate in the rugged luxury SUV segment.
Watch out LandCruiser. The GX is coming for you.
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