New Lexus Hybrid SUV: The TX
Lexus is one of the pioneers of hybrid drivetrains in its SUVs, and its latest model, the Lexus TX, continues that tradition. The new SUV offers a spacious interior with three rows of seats and a choice of four-cylinder gasoline, traditional hybrid, or new plug-in hybrid drivetrains. Built specifically for the North American market, this model promises to create a sense of luxury for every one of its passengers.
Lexus TX: A Drivetrain For Every Taste
The all-new TX will be offered with three different engines, including two electrified options. The entry-level TX350, which is available in both front- and all-wheel drive, has the same turbocharged 2.4-liter gasoline four-cylinder engine used in the NX and RX models. It produces 275 hp and is estimated at 21 mpg combined by the EPA – not very impressive, though not bad for a large three-row SUV.
One step up from the TX350 is the TX500h, which is only available with Lexus’ Direct4 all-wheel drive system. It pairs the 2.4-liter engine with a parallel hybrid system that drives all four wheels and actually improves gas mileage to a combined estimate of 24 mpg according to the EPA, while upping power to 366 hp. The TX500h is positioned as the sporty version of the TX; it offers a new dynamic rear-steering system which improves maneuverability in town and enhances stability at freeway speeds. During higher speed maneuvers, the rear-steer system turns the rear wheels in the same direction as the front wheels to give clear, stable turning response. At lower speeds, they can turn in the opposite direction as the front wheels to reduce the turning circle.
The top model of the TX lineup is the new TX500h+, which is also only available in all-wheel drive. It ushers in a new powertrain option for Lexus, combining a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine with plug-in hybrid capability. Power increases further to 406 hp, while fuel economy improves to an estimated 30 mpg EPA combined. Plus, thanks to its larger hybrid battery and more powerful motors, the TX500h+ has a projected all-electric driving range of up to 33 miles.
Lexus TX: Active Safety Tech to Impress
All 2024 Lexus TX models offer the brand’s Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 as standard equipment. The comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) provides driver and passengers the with the latest safety technology including:
· Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
· All-speed dynamic radar cruise control to maintain a safe distance from the car in front
· Lane tracing assist (LTA) and lane departure alert with steering assist to help you stay in your lane
· Road sign assist and proactive driving assist for freeway journeys
· Available traffic jam assist which monitors surrounding traffic in low-speed driving situations on limited-access roadways, and automatically moves forward and brakes as needed to keep a set distance behind the vehicle in front
An available advanced parking system also helps support safe and secure perpendicular parking/exiting and parallel parking/exiting.
New Lexus Hybrid SUV: Space For The Whole Family
The TX experience starts with a digital latch on the doors, which require just a touch to open. Passengers are welcomed with available multi-colored illumination. The driver faces a cleanly-designed 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and there is an available heads-up display to keep the most pertinent information in his or her line of sight. The infotainment system is operated by a large 14-inch touchscreen accessible to driver and front passenger. It comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, while a 21-speaker Mark Levinson high-end sound system is optional.
Space, utility, and usability are the hallmarks of all three rows of seats, and the Lexus TX is designed to ensure all guests are comfortable and relaxed. All three rows of seats have plenty of accessible storage bins and variable-size cup holders, and there are seven charging ports scattered around the cabin to ensure everyone can use their phone or tablet during a long drive.
In the second row, buyers have a choice of a split-folding bench or a pair of luxurious captain’s chairs, both of which have a button slide them out of the way to make getting into the third row easier. On TX models with captain’s chairs, there’s also a removable console that has extra storage. The cargo area is huge too – 57.4 cubic feet with the third row down, and 97 cubic feet with the second and third row folded away.
Lexus TX Trim Levels
The 2024 Lexus TX will be offered in four different trim levels: Standard, Premium, Luxury and F Sport. 20-inch wheels are standard on all trim levels except for the F Sport, which has 22-inch wheels (optional on other models) in a distinctive design. Each model also comes with distinctive trim elements on the interior and exterior.
On the outside, the TX is a little less aggressive than recent Lexus SUVs, with a new “unified spindle” that is a little more elegant than the gaping hole on other models. It’s sleeker and more aerodynamic, with narrow LED lights providing a high-tech look. A blacked-out rear pillar makes the side profile look longer and more elegant, and there are L-shaped light bars at the rear.
The Lexus TX will be made in the U.S., and will be assembled in Indiana – the first Lexus vehicle to be built there. Final pricing will be announced closer to its on-sale date this fall. The 2024 TX 550h+ is expected to go on sale at a later date.
