2018 Lexus GX Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

When you see a Lexus on the road, images of refinement and high-class frills probably come to mind. The new 2018 Lexus GX does, in many ways, embody that idealized image. However, buyers should beware that this vehicle has its setbacks, some of which might deter them from purchasing the GX. Still, it is hard to ignore the user-friendly nature of the Lexus GX, and it is at least worthy of a test drive, especially since it makes for a fun off-roader with impeccable handling.

What's New for 2018?

Almost everything carries over unchanged from the outgoing model. The only changes made to the 2018 Lexus GX are too minor to be worthy of mentioning.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2018 Lexus GX – The Pros

1. Excellent Off-Roading Abilities

A lot of luxury SUVs struggle to function as off-roading vehicles. This is not the case with the 2018 Lexus GX. Although ground clearance could be a little bit higher, the suspension is well-tuned and gives the driver a good feel for what the wheels are doing. Overall, the GX manages pretty well on rugged off-road terrain.

2. Physical Controls Are User-Friendly

All of the knobs and buttons located inside of the GX are easy to use. Even non-tech-savvy drivers will have no problem figuring out which button controls what function, as everything is well labeled and organized. Also, all controls are located well within the driver's reach.

3. Secure Braking Capabilities

Braking on the 2018 Lexus GX is remarkably natural-feeling and secure. The brakes are responsive and have a good amount of firmness to them. In a panic stop from 60 to 0 mph, the GX comes to a halt at a respectable stopping distance of 124 feet.

4. Superior Handling

The 2018 Lexus GX handles like a champ. While driving along an average roadway, the suspension feels quite spry and capable. When you take the vehicle off of the road, however, the suspension shines as is has no trouble adapting to the flat cornering you get on mountain roads.

5. A Silent Cabin

The cabin is incredibly well-insulated from wind, road, and engine noise. In fact, the engine is barely audible, and there is really no noise coming from the outside. Drivers can easily converse with other occupants and not have to crank the volume on their music just to hear it.

6. Superb Climate Control

The Lexus GX has one of the most well-designed climate control systems that you can find on the market. Airflow is evenly distributed to all of the vehicle's occupants through appropriately-sized vents to all three rows, and each vent has its own conveniently-located control. The heated rear and front seats provide extra comfort during cooler months.

7. Easy to Get In and Out

Getting in and out of the 2018 Lexus GX is relatively simple for all occupants. Despite being rather tall, the GX has side steps and interior grab handles located next to each door that aid individuals in entering and exiting the vehicle.

8. Adjustable Driver's Seat

The driver's seat is power-adjustable 8 different ways and is also height-adjustable. Also, the tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel is able to telescope pretty far, which makes it that much easier for the driver to find a comfortable driving position.

9. Excellent Visibility

Front, rear, and side visibility are excellent on the GX. The windshield and windows are all fairly large, and the doorsills are located pretty low on the doors. The standard rearview camera provides extra assistance for backing up into tight spots although the driver can see pretty clearly out of the big rearview mirror.

10. High-Quality Interior Materials

As is typical of Lexus, everything inside of the 2018 Lexus GX looks like it is made from expensive and durable materials. The trim and paneling inside the cabin look very classy, and there are no noticeable gaps in between the panel pieces. Also, the stitching is rather immaculate.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2018 Lexus GX – The Cons

1. Limited Cargo and Rear Seat Space

Unfortunately, the 2018 Lexus GX only has 11.6 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place. This can be maxed out to 64.7 cubic feet of space when seats are folded down, but the way they fold is awkward in that it heightens the load deck. Also, the rear seats themselves - especially the third row - feel too cramped for taller passengers to feel comfortable.

2. A Rough and Uncomfortable Ride

The GX seems to have some issues with the suspension being a little too rigid, which causes the vehicle to struggle with going over broken bits of pavement. Also, the seats are some of the most uncomfortable you will find in a luxury vehicle. They lack the bolstering and plush feel you should expect from a high-priced vehicle.

3. Sluggish Acceleration

The GX struggles with acceleration. Its V8 engine gets just over 300 hp, which, under typical driving circumstances is sufficient. However, if you want a sporty performance, you can forget about getting it from the hefty GX.

4. Weak Fuel Economy

The GX doesn't get the same fuel economy as many of its competitors. The GX only manages to get a combined 16 mpg (15 mpg city/18 mpg highway). While it is difficult to expect great numbers from a large luxury SUV, the GX falls short of even the competition's modest EPA estimates.

How it Stacks up to the Competition:

2018 Lexus GX vs. 2018 Volvo XC90

The 2018 Volvo XC90 is one of the most upscale vehicles, inside and out. It also has numerous safety and technological features and a large amount of rear seat space that is uncharacteristic of SUVs in this class. However, the XC90 has a confusing infotainment interface, and the ride quality is a little subpar.

2018 Lexus GX vs. 2018 Porsche Cayenne

The 2018 Porsche Cayenne leads the pack in its class for this model year. It has multiple powerful powertrain options, an extremely comfortable ride quality, and extremely precise handling abilities. On the downside, the Cayenne lacks cargo space and has options that will cause the vehicle's price to skyrocket.

Conclusion

Lexus' 2018 GX is a mixed bag. On one hand, it's handling, visibility, and off-roading abilities make it an attractive option. On the other hand, when compared with other vehicles in its class, the GX simply doesn't stack up. It doesn't best big contenders like the Volvo XC90 and Porsche Cayenne, which might be more worth the money.