The 2024 Lexus TX: Redefining the Three-Row Luxury SUV Experience
For years, Lexus has been synonymous with luxury, reliability, and a refined driving experience. But one area where the brand arguably lagged was in the competitive three-row SUV segment. The RX-L, while a valiant effort, felt like a stretched RX rather than a purpose-built family hauler. Enter the 2024 Lexus TX, a ground-up design aimed squarely at the heart of the three-row luxury market, challenging established players like the Acura MDX, Infiniti QX60, and even European rivals. The TX isn't just a bigger Lexus; it's a bold statement about what a family-oriented luxury SUV can be.
Space and Comfort: A True Three-Row Solution
The most significant departure from the RX-L is the TX's dedicated platform. This isn't an afterthought; it's a foundation designed from the outset to accommodate three rows of adults comfortably. The wheelbase is significantly longer than the RX, providing ample legroom in all three rows. Crucially, the third row isn't just for kids. Adults can sit comfortably for extended periods, thanks to generous headroom and a thoughtful seating position.
Access to the third row is also vastly improved. Power-folding second-row seats, operated by a single button, make getting in and out a breeze. The wide door openings and well-placed grab handles further enhance accessibility. This is a vehicle designed for real-world family use, not just a showpiece.
Beyond passenger space, the TX boasts impressive cargo capacity. Even with all three rows in use, there's ample room for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. Fold down the third row, and the space expands dramatically, rivaling many minivans. Folding down both the second and third rows creates a cavernous cargo area, perfect for hauling larger items.
Power and Performance: A Range of Options
Lexus offers the TX with a range of powertrains to suit different driving styles and needs. The base TX 350 features a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for everyday driving and delivers respectable fuel economy. It's paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and is available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.1
For those seeking more performance, the TX 500h F SPORT Performance steps up the game. This hybrid model combines the 2.4-liter turbo with Lexus's proven hybrid technology, resulting in a combined output of 366 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. The 500h comes standard with all-wheel drive and features a sport-tuned suspension, adaptive variable dampers, and rear-wheel steering, providing a more engaging and dynamic driving experience. The F SPORT Performance trim also adds unique styling elements, including a distinctive mesh grille, sport seats, and aluminum pedals.
The top-of-the-line TX 550h+ is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) that offers the best of both worlds: electric efficiency for shorter trips and the range of a gasoline engine for longer journeys. It uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine coupled to an electric motor and offers an estimated 33 miles of all-electric range. With a combined 404 horsepower, it's also the most powerful TX available.
Luxury and Technology: The Lexus Signature
Stepping inside the TX, you're immediately greeted by the familiar Lexus hallmarks of quality and craftsmanship. Premium materials are used throughout the cabin, with soft-touch surfaces, meticulously stitched leather, and elegant trim options. The design is clean and modern, with a focus on intuitive usability.
The centerpiece of the dashboard is a large 14-inch touchscreen display that houses Lexus's latest infotainment system. This system is a significant improvement over previous iterations, with a more user-friendly interface, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a responsive voice assistant. A digital instrument cluster provides clear and customizable information to the driver.
Other available technology features include a panoramic sunroof, a head-up display, a premium Mark Levinson sound system, a digital rearview mirror, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems. Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 is standard, bringing features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning with steering assist, automatic emergency braking, and road sign assist.
Driving Experience: Refined and Composed
The TX delivers a driving experience that is characteristic of Lexus: smooth, quiet, and comfortable. The suspension effectively absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a serene ride even on rough surfaces. The cabin is remarkably well-insulated from road and wind noise, creating a tranquil environment for passengers.
While the TX isn't a sports car, it handles with confidence and composure. The steering is precise and well-weighted, and the body roll is well-controlled. The TX 500h F SPORT Performance, with its sport-tuned suspension and rear-wheel steering, offers a noticeably more engaging driving experience, but even the base TX 350 provides a level of refinement that surpasses many competitors.
The Verdict: A New Standard in Three-Row Luxury
The 2024 Lexus TX isn't just a new model; it's a significant step forward for Lexus in the three-row SUV segment. It addresses the shortcomings of previous offerings with a dedicated platform, ample space, a range of powertrains, and a luxurious interior. The TX combines practicality with the refined driving experience and unwavering reliability that Lexus is known for. It's a compelling alternative to established rivals and sets a new benchmark for what a family-oriented luxury SUV can be. While the 2025 model may bring minor updates, the core strengths of the 2024 TX are sure to remain, making it a top contender for years to come. If you're in the market for a premium three-row SUV that prioritizes comfort, space, and technology, the Lexus TX deserves a very close look.
