2024 Lexus TX Hopes to Become a Better Family Hauler

Lexus is hitting the public with a one-two punch this week. After showcasing the next-generation GX, the brand introduced an all-new model designed to replace the three-row RX L. However, where the RX was stretched as an afterthought, the TX was always designed with extra seating in mind. 

Sharing a platform with the Toyota Grand Highlander, the TX is an extremely large vehicle. But that’s the point, as the manufacturer was clearly trying to maximize interior volume without sacrificing cargo. Storage behind the rear seats of the RX L was unsuitable for long trips when fully loaded with people and the TX’s dimensions are supposed to remedy that. 

At a smidgen over 203 inches long, the TX doesn’t seem to have any direct competitors. The infiniti QX80 and GMC Yukon are a little too big, while something like the Acura MDX is a little too small. But that’s a good place for a new vehicle to be when the market is receptive. 

Lexus says the back row will be more spacious, comfortable, and easier to get into than what was available on the three-row variant of the RX. Additionally, the TX is supposed to offer more room for luggage, yielding 20.1 cubic feet of space without having to fold any seating. 

The base powertrain will be a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four offering 275 horsepower. That unit comes with a 10-speed automatic and should provide a 21 mpg combined EPA-certified economy rating when configured for front-wheel drive. But all-wheel drive is likewise available. 

Stepping up beyond the TX350 to the TX500h brings on board a hybrid system that takes the 2.4-liter to 362 horsepower thanks to dual electric motors offering default all-wheel drive. However, it’s not so much focused on saving fuel as it is promoting fun. The powertrain comes with a 6-speed automatic and is only available via the F Sport Performance trim. Still, it’s supposed to deliver 24 mpg (combined) and adds rear-wheel steering, adaptive dampers, and flashier 22-inch wheels. 

The above is already available on the Toyota Grand Highlander. What isn’t is the Lexus-exclusive plug-in-hybrid model (exclusive to the all-wheel drive TX550h Plus) that hybridizes a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine for a very agreeable 406 horsepower and 30 mpg combined fuel economy. It’s also supposed to be capable of allowing drivers to propel the machine 33 miles using the battery alone. But it comes with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that’s not going to be for everyone. 

Interior inclusions are about what we’d expect with the LX seeming to focus a bit more on practicality due to its role as a family hauler. But there’s a massive 14-inch infotainment center as standard and the option to upgrade to a digital gauge cluster with a head-up display. 

Additional details are forthcoming, with Lexus yet to provide charging details for the plug-in variant and more comprehensive specifications on the rest of the line. But it’s basically an upscale Grand Highlander focused more on comfort without ditching practicality.

Pricing should reflect this with the Lexus TX starting a little higher than the three-row RX — so above $50,000.

[Images: Lexus]

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