2027 Lexus GX

We have to give credit to Lexus for covering its bases. No matter what kind of luxury SUV you're interested in, chances are that Lexus has one in its lineup. The 2027 Lexus GX is designed for adventurous types, or at least those who like to present themselves in a certain way. This midsize SUV couples luxury and off-road capability like few other vehicles sold today. Its powerful engine and specialized off-road hardware are paired with a quiet, comfortable interior. Part of the GX's capability relates to its truck-based underpinnings, but Lexus has done remarkable work in refinement, making the GX both easy to live with and impressive off-road.

Edmunds spotlight: The promised hybrid powertrain

When Lexus introduced the redesigned-for-2024 GX, its press materials stated that a hybrid powertrain would be available in the U.S. at a later date. That hadn't happened as of the 2026 GX, so it seems at least possible that if Lexus is really going to add hybrid power to the GX, it would come as part of an updated 2027 GX. The most likely powertrain for the role is the turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder that pairs with an electric motor in the related Toyota Land Cruiser. That powertrain is good for 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, a close match for the GX’s current turbocharged 3.4-liter V6, which makes 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft. In the Toyota, the hybrid powertrain is EPA rated at 23 mpg combined, far better than the current GX’s 17 mpg combined rating. Just be aware that we've found in our testing that the GX's V6 is smoother and more refined than the hybrid powertrain.

Competitors to consider

Land Rover’s Defender is the closest competitor to the GX. It offers legit off-road credentials combined with luxury appointments and starts at about the same price. There are less expensive options, too. Toyota’s Land Cruiser, for example, is related to the GX and offers similar off-road capability (though less luxury, of course). You could also check out other SUVs in Lexus' lineup, such as the popular RX or the bigger three-row TX.

The time is ripe for Lexus to do what it promised. We think a hybrid-powered GX is likely in 2027.