My wife and I are seriously considering a GX550 to replace our BMW iX, which unfortunately has had some major mechanical issues forcing an early sale. We also currently own a 2015 GMC Yukon, which we plan to replace when the next generation comes out. We've never owned a Toyota or Lexus before, but we're both absolutely smitten with the GX550's exterior styling. It's just so darn cool!
We recently test drove a GX550 Premium Plus, and while I walked away a bit disappointed with some aspects (mainly the tech), I can't shake the desire to own one. I think it's that irresistible exterior design! Since we're leaning towards the Luxury Plus model (I'm a sucker for real leather), it's been a little frustrating that dealerships near me only have Premium Plus versions available for test drives. I'd love to experience the upgraded interior, the ride quality with the 22-inch wheels, and the adaptive suspension.
Coming from the BMW iX, the GX550's technology felt like a significant step down. The iX's iDrive screens are so much brighter and more vibrant. The HUD on the GX was also blurry – almost double vision. From the passenger seat, I had a hard time reading the speedometer in front of the driving position. Maybe that says something about the quality of the screen?
On the highway (cruising around 75 mph), the ride quality and road noise were perfectly acceptable. However, on a poorly maintained road, the ride was noticeably bumpy.
Did I mention how much I love the GX550's looks?
The infotainment screen is okay. I prefer the more horizontal layout of BMW's iDrive, but the GX's system is certainly better integrated than some of the "iPad glued to the dash" designs I've seen.
Even though I test drove the Premium Plus, I keep reminding myself that we're considering an $84k Luxury Plus. Honestly, the interior of the Premium Plus didn't quite feel like it belonged in a vehicle in that price range. Perhaps my expectations are a bit dated.
Our plan is to replace the Yukon with a newer model Tahoe/Yukon when the body style changes. The Lexus would primarily serve as a functional family hauler for my wife and two young children and replace the BMW. Space behind the second row seems ample for our needs.
Having never owned a Lexus/Toyota, I'm struggling to reconcile it with the luxury and technology I'm accustomed to in German cars. Comparing it to our larger and much older Yukon isn't really fair. From what I've read, the TX might actually be a better fit for our needs, but we simply don't like its styling. We're just drawn to the GX's rugged aesthetic.
I'm thinking I need to test drive the GX550 again and take a closer look at some of the things I mentioned. Any thoughts or insights from current owners, especially those who have experience with both German luxury brands and Lexus, would be greatly appreciated!
We recently test drove a GX550 Premium Plus, and while I walked away a bit disappointed with some aspects (mainly the tech), I can't shake the desire to own one. I think it's that irresistible exterior design! Since we're leaning towards the Luxury Plus model (I'm a sucker for real leather), it's been a little frustrating that dealerships near me only have Premium Plus versions available for test drives. I'd love to experience the upgraded interior, the ride quality with the 22-inch wheels, and the adaptive suspension.
Coming from the BMW iX, the GX550's technology felt like a significant step down. The iX's iDrive screens are so much brighter and more vibrant. The HUD on the GX was also blurry – almost double vision. From the passenger seat, I had a hard time reading the speedometer in front of the driving position. Maybe that says something about the quality of the screen?
On the highway (cruising around 75 mph), the ride quality and road noise were perfectly acceptable. However, on a poorly maintained road, the ride was noticeably bumpy.
Did I mention how much I love the GX550's looks?
The infotainment screen is okay. I prefer the more horizontal layout of BMW's iDrive, but the GX's system is certainly better integrated than some of the "iPad glued to the dash" designs I've seen.
Even though I test drove the Premium Plus, I keep reminding myself that we're considering an $84k Luxury Plus. Honestly, the interior of the Premium Plus didn't quite feel like it belonged in a vehicle in that price range. Perhaps my expectations are a bit dated.
Our plan is to replace the Yukon with a newer model Tahoe/Yukon when the body style changes. The Lexus would primarily serve as a functional family hauler for my wife and two young children and replace the BMW. Space behind the second row seems ample for our needs.
Having never owned a Lexus/Toyota, I'm struggling to reconcile it with the luxury and technology I'm accustomed to in German cars. Comparing it to our larger and much older Yukon isn't really fair. From what I've read, the TX might actually be a better fit for our needs, but we simply don't like its styling. We're just drawn to the GX's rugged aesthetic.
I'm thinking I need to test drive the GX550 again and take a closer look at some of the things I mentioned. Any thoughts or insights from current owners, especially those who have experience with both German luxury brands and Lexus, would be greatly appreciated!
