The 2017 Lexus GX ranks 22 out of 22 Luxury Midsize SUVs. The 2017 Lexus GX ranks near the bottom of the luxury midsize SUV class. If you want a luxury SUV with off-road capabilities (and standard four-wheel drive), then the GX is one of the few midsize choices that will meet your criteria. It also comes standard with seating for seven. In most other respects, however, you’re better off looking at most other vehicles in the class.
Pros Excellent off-road abilities Intuitive technology features
Cons Low fuel economy estimates Timid acceleration Unremarkable cabin materials
For an old-school SUV, the Lexus GX acquits itself quite well.Underneath its sharply-styled body and high-end interior, the Lexus GX 460 hides a utilitarian frame and a suspension shared with the foreign-market Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. Why's that important? The Prado, which is unrelated to the Land Cruiser sold at Toyota dealers in the United States, is a serious work truck designed for farmers in Australia and peacekeepers in Somalia. That helps explain some of its compromises—but despite its high step-in and quirky tailgate, the Lexus GX 460 does a lot of things very well.
Pros Truck-based solidity Smooth and strong V-8 engine Plush ride quality Comfortable interior Off-road ability
Cons Side-opening hatch opens away from the curb Too-light steering Poor gas mileage Spongy brake pedal feel Compromised cargo area
Lexus has added the Sport Design package to the 2017 GX 460, which includes some different wheels, a different front grille and additional exterior chrome trim pieces. Second-row captain's chairs are a new feature for the GX 460.
Pros Capable off-road performance requires little effort from the driver Plenty of luxury features and cabin amenities.
Cons Poor acceleration and fuel economy from the V8 engine Uncomfortable standard second-row bench seats Inconvenient side-swinging rear cargo door Relatively ponderous handling around turns.
Minor changes to trim-level content and optional features for 2021.
Pros Exceptional interior materials and build quality Excellent ride quality Plenty of safety and infotainment tech features Surprisingly agile handling
Cons Offers less cargo space than most competitors Cramped third-row seat Infotainment system is distracting to use
The 2021 Audi Q7 fuses a high-class cabin and abundant tech features with a coddling ride, engaging handling, and energetic engines, but it falls short on cargo and third-row space. The Q7 does not have an overall score or ranking because it has not been scored for predicted reliability.
Pros Powerful engines Well-balanced ride and handling Lots of high-tech features Opulent cabin
Cons Subpar cargo space Tight third row
The 2021 Audi Q7 three-row SUV features more standard safety and convenience features, an excellent infotainment system, and a soft, luxurious ride.
Pros Sophisticated interior More standard safety tech Improved touchscreens Standard virtual cockpit SQ7 performance model
Cons New engine is less efficient V-6 is about $6,000 more, depending on trim Third row for children only Third-row access should be easier
