TX

Make
Lexus
Segment
SUV
  • Three-row unibody crossover shares a platform with the Toyota Grand Highlander
  • Three powertrain options are available, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid derivatives
  • TX 550h+ powered by an electrified V6 (406 horsepower)
  • As much as 97 cubic feet of space with second and third rows of seating folded flat
  • Available in fall 2023

The Lexus lineup is growing to accommodate the all-new TX three-row SUV, the first of its kind from the Japanese luxury brand and built upon the familiar underpinnings of the Toyota Grand Highlander. With three engine choices, sophisticated onboard technology, and space for up to seven occupants, the TX hopes to cut itself a slice of the lucrative premium family SUV segment.

Here's what you can expect from the first-ever Lexus TX.

3 Powerful Engines To Choose From

Three powertrains will be offered. The base TX 350, available in front- or all-wheel-drive, makes use of a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The manufacturer estimates 21 mpg on the combined cycle.

If you're looking for more power and efficiency, the hybrids are better options. The TX 500h also uses a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine but offers 366 hp and 409 lb-ft thanks to the Parallel Hybrid system. Available exclusively with the company's Direct4 all-wheel drive system, the mid-spec model returns an estimated 24 mpg combined.

The plug-in hybrid TX550h+ sits at the top of the range, employing a 3.5-liter V6 engine and an electric motor to deliver 406 hp to all four wheels via a CVT gearbox. Lexus claims 30 mpg combined and an all-electric range of 33 miles.

Exterior: Different Enough

The TX is based on Toyota's TNGA-K architecture shared with the Toyota Highlander, Grand Highlander, and Lexus RX. But Lexus has gone the extra mile to ensure the TX is more refined than its Toyota-badged siblings. Changes include strengthened body rigidity and various refinement-enhancing measures. The new Lexus makes use of a multi-link rear suspension design.

While the overall shape resembles the Grand Highlander, the TX adopts various styling elements from Lexus' latest design language. The angry front fascia is dominated by the new "Unified Spindle" grille, first previewed on the latest RX, flanked by LED headlights with the DRL signature at the top instead of underneath the main beams.

The front end is reminiscent of the new LBX unveiled earlier this week. Lexus says TX was styled to be as aerodynamic as possible.

The rear end is far more traditional Lexus, with its LX-inspired, L-shaped light bar spanning its width. The Lexus name brand is positioned within the taillight cluster in bold, spaced-out lettering.

Depending on the trim level, there are seven exterior paint colors: Cloudburst Gray, Wind Chill Pearl, Caviar, Matador Red Mica, Nightfall Mica, Incognito, and Celestial Silver Metallic.

Four grades are available for the 2024 TX. Standard, Premium, and Luxury receive 20-inch wheels, while the 500 F Sport receives 22-inch alloys and model-specific styling. Larger wheels are also available on the TX 350 Luxury.

Interior: Equal Parts Plush And Practical

The 2024 TX's raison d'etre is to seat up to seven occupants across three rows, effectively replacing the old RX L. With all three rows of seating erect, the TX is left with a handy 20.1 cubic feet of packing space but can expand this to 97 cubic feet with the two rearmost rows stowed - 22.7 cu ft more than a Land Rover Discovery.

The second row can be specced as either a 60/40-split bench (seven seats total) or captain's chairs (six seats), with a slide-assist walk-in mechanism, which tilts the second-row seat forward for ingress and egress to the rear.

The TX will be offered with a choice of Peppercorn, Birch, and Black upholstery.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are standard, controlled via the Lexus interface system found on the 14-inch touchscreen, with seven USB charging ports and three power outlets throughout the cabin. A 12.3-inch driver's display and head-up display are available, as is a 21-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System.

All TX models ship standard with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which includes driver assist features like lane departure warning with steering assist, road sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control, among other things.

When Does It Arrive?

Lexus says the 2024 TX 350 and TX 500h are expected to arrive in the fall. The plug-in hybrid TX 550h derivative will go on sale at a later date. All models will be produced at Toyota's plant in Indiana, making the TX the first-ever Lexus to be assembled at the facility.

As for pricing, we can expect the 2024 TX to be more expensive than the new Grand Highlander, which starts at $43,070. We expect the TX to be at least $10,000 dearer and wouldn't be surprised to see the range-topping TX 550h surpass the $70,000 mark.

We look forward to seeing how it stacks up against the competition, such as the Audi Q7 and Acura MDX.