The Lexus Texas? We think it’s a fitting name for a big new 3-row SUV that arrives this fall.
Lexus has just taken the wraps off the 2024 Lexus TX, an all-new 3-row SUV the company will build in Indiana on Toyota’s GA-K platform. For those unfamiliar with Toyota
TM,
chassis designations, the 2024 Lexus TX is based on the same unit-body chassis as the new Toyota Grand Highlander. It replaces the recently discontinued 3-row Lexus RX-L in the company’s lineup of SUVs, sliding right between the RX and the larger body-on-frame GX and LX models. All three rows of the new TX have enough room for adults, which we couldn’t say of the RX-L.
Two models at first
When the Lexus TX goes on this fall as a 2024 model, it will be available as a TX 350 and a TX 500h.
A turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder will power the TX 350. It sends 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque to the front (or all four) wheels. Lexus expects the EPA to rate it at 21 mpg combined.
The TX 500h is a gas-electric hybrid featuring a turbocharged 2.4-liter gasoline engine augmented by an electric motor. The total combined output of this hybrid powertrain is 366 hp and 409 lb-ft of torque. Lexus expects TX 500h models equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive (AWD) to earn an EPA combined fuel economy rating of 24 mpg.
Moreover, all Lexus TX 500h models will come exclusively in F Sport Performance trim. This means they get Dynamic Rear Steering and Direct4 AWD. The latter improves vehicle maneuverability and response by constantly adjusting the amount of electric power reaching each wheel. With Dynamic Rear Steering on the highway, the rear wheels point slightly in the same direction as the fronts for added stability in curves. But in slow-speed parking lots and the like, the rear wheels point slightly opposite the fronts for better maneuverability and a tighter turning radius.
A third coming later
On sale at a later date, perhaps next spring, will be the Lexus TX 550h+. This plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the TX sports a 3.5-liter V6 and an electric motor. The combined output of this PHEV powertrain is a healthy 406 hp, reaching all four wheels via a continuously variable automatic transmission. Toyota expects the upcoming TX 550h+ to earn an EPA rating of 30 mpg combined and have a respectable all-electric range of 33 miles. It’s the first Lexus PHEV to be assembled in North America.
Also see: Review: The all-new 2023 Lexus RZ luxury electric SUV—range, charging and more
How much does the 2024 Lexus TX cost?
It’s far too early to have final pricing for the 2024 Lexus TX. The MSRP for the 3-row 2022 Lexus RX 350 L (the last year it was offered) was $49,825. Using that as a guideline, we could see the new 2024 Lexus TX 350 starting at perhaps $55,000. The TX 500h and TX 500h+ might come in at around $60,000 and $65,000, respectively.
Plus: 10 of the best new luxury compact and subcompact SUVs
Technologically strong
As expected of a new family-focused SUV, the 2024 Lexus TX abounds with safety and driver-assist features. Safety comes courtesy of Lexus Safety System+ 3.0. The standard safety suite features a collision avoidance system with pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking, plus other welcome hardware like dynamic radar active cruise control and a lane-departure alert (with steering assist). The TX also has Proactive Driving Assist, which will gently apply the brakes around curves on the highway.
Notable among the other driver-assist technologies available on the new 2024 Lexus TX is Advanced Park, which will automatically park the vehicle in parallel and perpendicular parking spots. Traffic Jam Assist also can be ordered; it allows the TX to move forward and brake autonomously (with no driver input) on slow stop-and-go freeways.
Driver-focused cabin
Open the door via the digital latch and take note of the TX’s 12.3-inch digital instrument display. Multicolor accent lighting compliments it. You’ll find a generous amount of accessible storage for all three rows. In addition to seven charging/communication ports, the TX has three power outlets.
The all-important infotainment interface is a 14-inch touchscreen with easy-to-use controls. Options include a head-up display and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound audio system. It’s available on all four trim levels: Standard, Premium, Luxury, and F Sport Performance.
Plus: A guide to selling a car to a friend or family member
Interior details
In front, a split lid allows the driver and front-seat passenger to open the center console independently. Depending on the trim, you can get your TX with captain’s chairs or a 60/40-split folding bench in the second row.
A clever walk-in mechanism aids access to the third row. When you press a switch on the shoulder of the second row, the seat tilts, folds forward, and slides out of the way to create a path in or out of the TX for third-row passengers. And remember, these third-row passengers don’t have to be small kids. With captain’s chairs, the TX comes with a removable central console box sized perfectly for tablets and the like.
To ensure Lexus levels of quiet, the company uses a vibration-damping mastic sealer in the doors and roof. Additional sound-deadening materials line under the rear cargo area and floor.
Also on MarketWatch: How to invest in art without spending millions of dollars
How much storage room does the Lexus TX have?
Behind its third row of seats, the new Lexus TX has 20.1 cubic feet of storage. That’s enough space, says Lexus, to store the carry-on bags for all seven passengers. With the third row folded, that increases to 57.4 cubic feet. With both rows folded, the volume is 97.0 cubic feet.
That’s similar in volume to the slightly larger Chevrolet Traverse. For comparison, the Chevy has 23.0 cubic feet behind its third row, 57.8 cubic feet with that seat folded, and 98.2 with both rows folded.
This story originally ran on KBB.com.
Read the full article here