Strengths

Quiet ride
Nice living space inside
Comprehensive equipment
Flawless finish

Weaknesses

Uninspired styling
We would have appreciated a better range on the PHEV model
7-passenger model only with the 350 model

Lexus recently took advantage of the development of the Toyota Grand Highlander to present its top-of-the-range version, the TX. Both models share the GA-K platform and offer a similar range of powertrains. Both are presented as three-row vehicles, offering seating for six or seven. The arrival of the TX, which exceeds five meters in length, has led to the removal of the RX-L model from the Lexus range, and the model will be built in Indiana.

Conservative styling

Lexus has always favoured discretion in the design of its models. The emphasis has been on practicality, without flamboyant design. Aerodynamics have been worked on to improve driving efficiency and stability. The headlamps feature a narrow opening under the front hood, above a trapezoidal grille. At the rear, a light strip runs the full width of the vehicle, with the Lexus logo prominently displayed. In Canada, the TX 2024 will be available in five trim levels: Luxury, Ultra Luxury, Executive, F SPORT Performance 2 and F SPORT Performance 3. The different versions feature similar styling. The differences lie in the wheels, which range from 20 to 22 inches, and the F-Sport versions, which offer some visual differences in exterior presentation. The TX 2024 will be offered in seven exterior colours, including Storm Grey, Pearly Ice Shiver, Caviar, Matador Red Mica, Twilight Mica, Incognito and Celestial Silver Metallic.

Tasteful interior

The TX offers generous space. The 350 version can accommodate six or seven passengers, while the 500h and 550h+ have six seats due to the battery. Lexus has facilitated access to the third row with sliding 2nd-row seats. All rows offer practical storage space. The trunk reveals a capacity of 572 litres behind the third row, which can be increased to 2,747 litres when all seats are folded down. A removable second-row console provides a flat floor to maximize cargo space. The vehicle is equipped with seven charging/communication ports and three power ports for passengers, enabling them to use their smart devices. Cup holders are removable to adapt to different needs. The second row can be configured with captain’s seats or a 60:40 folding bench. The TX 2024 is available in three interior colours, depending on the version: Pepper, Birch and Black.

A healthy dose of technology

A 12.3″ multifunction display sits at the center of the console. Doors open with a digital locking device, and occupants are greeted by multicoloured ambient lighting and a variety of optional door trims. Vehicle control systems, such as the optional head-up display, are positioned within the driver’s field of vision to minimize distractions. The Lexus Interface system is included as standard on the TX, with a 14-inch multimedia touchscreen and Digital Key function. For music lovers, the 21-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System is available as an option. In terms of safety, the TX is equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which includes features such as pre-collision system, dynamic cruise control, lane keeping assist, lane departure warning with steering assist, traffic sign recognition and proactive driving assistance. Options such as Advanced Parking System and Traffic Jam Assist are also available.

Under the hood

The entry-level TX 350 AWD is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine developing 275 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque. The TX 500h DIRECT4 AWD combines a 2.4-litre turbo engine with a hybrid system, increasing power to 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. Finally, the TX 550h+ is a plug-in hybrid version with a 3.5-litre V6 and an electric motor, offering a combined total of 404 horsepower and an electric range of 53 km. Fuel economy varies according to the model. The entry-level model, the TX 350, has the highest combined fuel economy at 10.3 L/100 km, while the 500h hybrid version achieves 8.6 L/100 km thanks to the addition of the electric motor. Consumption figures for the 550h+ version have not yet been confirmed.

On the road

Comfort is the watchword behind the wheel. Lexus engineers have installed anti-noise seals to reduce sound vibrations in the doors, roof and under the floor, improving cabin soundproofing. The captain’s seats offer similar comfort to those in front, while the rear bench is large enough to accommodate adults. A quiet ride is one of the TX’s strong points. Its generous wheelbase contributes to stable handling. Lexus has worked on aerodynamics in the wind tunnel to deliver a stable ride. The entry-level engine is adequate, although the 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine is not as vigorous as the six-cylinder engines of competitors such as the Acura MDX, resulting in a slightly longer 0-100 km/h time. The 500h version, with the addition of an electric motor, offers increased power, from 275 to 366 hp, with superior fuel economy. Hybrid models are combined with DIRECT4 all-wheel drive and Dynamic Rear Wheel Steering (DRS), offering responsive handling and enhanced stability, improving low-speed maneuverability and offering a short turning radius. There’s nothing sporty about the ride, but the vehicle is stable and quiet, and that’s what people who buy this vehicle are looking for in the first place. If you look further into your wallet, the 550h+ will surprise you with its 404 hp, which is nothing wild, but a bit like a Volvo XC90 pushing hard without making a ripple.

How much it costs

Pricing-wise, the TX 350 Luxury starts at $68,750, while the Ultra Luxury version retails for $71,500. The 350 Executive model is available for $79,500, or $80,250 for the six-passenger version with second-row captain’s chairs. The 500h version starts at $84,200 for Performance 2 and $90,200 for Performance 3. Prices for the 550h+ version will be announced at a later date.

Conclusion

The Lexus TX is not a model that will make your heart stop beating. It should be seen as a well-built, quiet and reliable product. We believe the 500h model is the one that will offer the best value for money with good fuel economy. It’s not by looking at the TX that you appreciate what it has to offer, it’s by getting behind the wheel. The legendary reliability of Lexus models will also be a major selling point against competitors like the BMW X5, Audi Q7 or Mercedes Benz GLE.