The 2024 Lexus TX 350 is not just another SUV; it is a legitimate luxury vehicle that offers a lot of value for its price. Priced at $55,050, it provides a cavernous interior with room for seven, a 14-inch touchscreen, a 12-speaker sound system, and heated front seats. Compared to the average new vehicle cost of $44,000, the TX 350 is a great deal.
However, when it comes to its powertrain, the TX 350 falls short. It is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which lacks the power of turbo inline-sixes found in competitors like the BMW X5 and Mazda CX-9. With 275 horsepower, the TX 350 can feel a bit sluggish at times. Nevertheless, the 317 pound-feet of torque delivered as low as 1,700 rpm helps with acceleration. The eight-speed automatic transmission is also reliable. To keep the price down, this particular model is only available in front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive as an optional add-on for an extra $1,600.
Moving on to the interior, while it is nice and the materials feel premium, it does not quite match the craftsmanship found in Mercedes and Lincoln SUVs. The black materials and grained trim give it a luxurious feel, but it lacks that deep sense of luxury found in its competitors. The NuLuxe interior trim is synthetic leather, which has its environmental advantages and claims to be easier to clean compared to genuine leather. While the TX’s interior may not be sinful like some luxury vehicles, it certainly feels sensible.
If value is your main concern, the Toyota Grand Highlander is worth considering. It shares the same powertrain as the TX and starts at a more affordable price of $44,715. While it may lack the premium feel of a Lexus, it offers plenty of space and features. It’s important to note that many Lexus vehicles have shared underpinnings with Toyotas for years, so sharing a powertrain is nothing to be concerned about.
However, if you crave luxury and want to make a statement, the TX 550h+ Luxury AWD model is worth the splurge. Priced at $79,400, it offers a higher level of options and a more sophisticated powertrain. With its spindle grille, eye-catching design elements, and snazzy wheels, it exudes the luxury that most Toyotas don’t.
The TX is the third-best selling Lexus SUV, behind the RX and NX. With nearly 10,000 sales in the first quarter, it is clear that the low-risk move of adding a large, family-friendly, three-row SUV to the lineup has paid off for Lexus. As a metaphor for the entire Lexus SUV lineup, which includes 13 vehicles, the TX represents the brand’s commitment to offering something for everyone.
In conclusion, while the 2024 Lexus TX 350 may not have the most impressive powertrain or the most luxurious interior compared to its competitors, it offers great value for its price. It is a well-equipped luxury SUV with enough space for a family and desirable features. With options like the Toyota Grand Highlander or the more luxurious TX 550h+ Luxury AWD model, Lexus provides choices to suit different preferences and budgets within their SUV lineup.