The 2024 Lexus GX 550 has been capturing attention among SUV enthusiasts for its blend of luxury and rugged capability, particularly for families looking to embark on outdoor adventures. A recent road test in the picturesque landscapes of Bend, Oregon put this vehicle to the ultimate test - a family road trip filled with gear hauls, bike rides, and kayak adventures.
Upon the onset of this journey, it was noted that the GX 550 is advertised as the perfect vehicle for families looking to take outdoor road trip vacations. In a world where family and adventure often clash, the challenge was accepted with an eager spirit. The GX’s marketing team envisioned families, perhaps like the one embarking on this trip, making memories in the great outdoors with the help of this versatile SUV.
The journey from Agoura Hills outside Los Angeles to Bend was approximately 836 miles, and while the plan was to handle this alone initially, the excitement grew for the arrival of the family later on. Shortly after the vehicle's arrival, packed with camping gear, a kayak, and bikes, the author was ready to put the GX 550’s capabilities to the test.
The GX’s specifications impress at first glance: a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, generating a hefty 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the engine performance is notably smooth and responsive. It represented a significant upgrade from the previous V8 model, particularly in torque - an essential factor for towing and climbing steep inclines. However, potential buyers should consider the EPA’s fuel economy estimates, rated at 15 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined. After extensive driving, the author recorded an average of 20.4 mpg, revealing that the GX is not exactly a fuel-efficient option, particularly compared to competitors.
One interesting detail of the GX 550 is its gear-hauling capacity. To maximize its utility for this trip, the author opted for the $1,580 low-profile roof rack and a Yakima StageTwo bike rack to secure a Gazelle bicycle. With ample cargo space—40.2 cubic feet—there was ample room to pack gear such as camp chairs, inflatable rafts, and a balance bike for his child.
Like any family adventure, not everything went smoothly. Initially, the full-roof rack proved to create unexpected noise at speeds over 60 mph. The wind gusted loudly, creating what felt like a concert of cacophony on the highway and rattling the serene ride one would typically expect from a luxury vehicle. The author learned quickly that at highway speeds, listening to music or conversing would become almost impossible. However, the grandeur of the scenery along the Oregon highways made up for these minor annoyances.
Once arriving in Bend, the atmosphere shifted from that of a long drive to the joys of exploration. Preparations for kayaking included the guidance of Danielle from Bend Kayak School and Rentals. With her expertise, it was confirmed that the additional surface area from the roof rack significantly contributed to the stability of transporting the kayak. A sense of relief washed over the author, confirming that the noise had indeed been worth it to ensure a smooth and secure transport of the kayak for the rest of the family.
As the family arrived, the author transitioned into the role of a tour guide, sharing tips on local biking trails and the best places for outdoor activities. Bend, known for its biking trails and rivers, offered the perfect backdrop for a memorable family trip. The GX 550 accommodated the family comfortably, with its spacious interior offering legroom and a third-row option to comfortably seat six passengers.
However, another crucial aspect of family travel is safety. The GX 550 comes complete with an extensive roster of advanced safety features that gave peace of mind while navigating through diverse terrains. These included lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and pre-collision systems that are crucial for families eager to explore without worry.
The ride experience throughout was praised for its comfort, allowing for a smooth cruise along highways interspersed with twisty roads. Even with a full rack of gear, handling of the GX remained stable. Whether negotiating tight turns or climbing steep grades, the SUV confidently displayed its prowess, remaining composed through various driving conditions.
As the days rolled by in Bend, adventures continued with more exploration. A biking trip along the Deschutes River tested not only the family’s sense of adventure but also the GX 550’s stability on assorted terrain. The bike rack performed admirably, making it easy to load and unload the bikes whenever necessary.
Throughout the venture, the blend of luxury and off-road capability remained a focal point of the experience. The GX not only provided ample room for gear and passengers but also a cabin adorned with high-quality materials and tech that melded in a user-friendly manner. Passengers enjoyed the comfort of heated seats, ambient lighting, and a sound system that turned road noise into pleasant tunes whenever possible.
The culmination of this adventure led to reflections on the GX 550’s performance. It stood tall against its hype, proving itself adept at handling family needs while handling outdoor gear with dignity. While the noise levels created by the roof rack were a noted downside, the upside of its overall versatility couldn't be understated. Would the author recommend the GX 550 for families seeking outdoor adventure trips? “Absolutely,” he concludes. The vehicle’s capability to enhance outdoor experiences could not be overlooked, making it a worthwhile investment for those eager to seek nature’s beauty in style.
Concluding the trip, what remains is the significant memory of a whirlwind family adventure made possible by a vehicle that blends comfort, capability, and style. The Lexus GX 550 has indeed paved a new path for families eager to explore the wonders of nature—showing them not just the landscape, but the value of quality family time on the open road.
