A few surprises when I drove the TX. Materials. Shiny gloss plastic around the cluster. Felt upscale Corolla vs. luxury like an up-trimmed GX. Driving - felt like sitting on top of the car vs. sitting in the car like my X7. Fair bit of plastic around the car. Instrument cluster was limited for what a digital display could be. Suspension was fine, but best version of this was the entry level 20" tires (no air suspension across the line). The sunroof omission was surprising - losing a mile or two wouldn't be a bad tradeoff.
Lexus needs a 550h+ Platinum F-sport model with Genesis GV80 interior. It needs the panoramic roof, aggressive Fsport bumpers, triple beam lights, rear wheel steering, massage seats x4, add heat and ventilation to 3rd row seats, heads up display, and 1 more small electric motor in the transmission to add 15hp and 100 ft/lb torque towards performance. Exterior could feature a more spindled grille like the previous RX models, power side steps, and carbon fiber or polished bits of trim. Maybe add a heads-up display, and standard rear tablets/tv monitors with power privacy shades. Call it the 600h
@@naveenthemachine Like I said, it has pano roof and the rest of "sports" junks for people who like the aggressive look....this is a 3 row SUV....who cares to impress the "NASCAR" fanatics!!!
The Toyota/Lexus camera sweep may not be very useful, but if you put the car in drive and hit the camera view button it will give you additional views that you can cycle through. Weird that they don’t come up in park but they can be helpful.
Overall I like the TX and it is going to end up replacing our GH, I am kinda bummed they don’t offer the pano roof on the plug-in because we are looking to get the plug-in version. Hopefully they’ll add it in later and some triple beam LED’s, but what you’re really paying for is the plug-in system. 404hp plus 30mpg, and 33 miles of EV driving range is very hard to beat in this segment
I actually like the look of this car inside and out. The modular center console is a good idea but looks a little cheap. I suspect most people will leave it alone, so a more traditional console would have been nicer. Keeping the V6 was a good move and helps to set it apart from the Toyota GH in a meaningful way, along with the different interior and standard large infotainment screen. The one major misstep is lack of a pano sunroof, which could be a deal breaker.
People keep saying better options, so please list them. As far as I'm concerned 2GR V6 with D4S is one of the smoothest/ reliable engines on the market and combined with the plug in to increase mpg is definitely a winner. The 550+ is unrivaled for power/ reliability/ mpg/ space, which is what a family 3 row is all about, styling is subjective. Only down side is tech.
@naveenthemachine Telluride/ palisade/ mdx :are very comparable just poor mpg. Aviator/ wagoner / x7 /xc90:poor reliability/ mpg/ more expensive. Escalade is different class of car. Qx60/xt6 nobody buys these 😆 Next?
@@xr4zgr1zx mpg doesn’t matter in a luxury car. You want the luxury of mpg get a Prius or Camry hybrid Qx60 xt6 are so much nicer inside and better looking outside and have more features and upscale materials and a smooth v6 The tx is the worst of the bunch in the 3row segment along with the grand highlander. Previously the qx60 and xt6 used to be the worst but now the tx and grand highlander are now the worst in class
@naveenthemachine mpg doesn't matter in a car that's meant for road trips? Have you seen the gas prices lately and have you ever try to go on a road trip with anything that gets less then 20 mpg? Mpg doesn't matter in a sports car, but it does in this application. Maybe in your opinion it doesn't work for you specifically but the numbers don't lie. All subjectivity aside, just even the horsepower and mpg figures are better than any of the cars you previously mentioned.
All these companies just need to create a van with 8.5" of ground clearance and 30" Wheel total diameter in a 3 row, 8-9 passenger configuration + trunk space in a full size width and it will sell like hot cakes. All these crazy house prices are increasing multi-generational households in america and people need bigger people movers that don't scrape the curb
Buy a used Sienna, install the Journeys Off Road lift kit, and save your money for a house. Why spend $80k on a Lexus that will be worth half that in only a few years?@@TheMrHueyFreeman
@@jissanhuq3792 I ain’t paying all that money for a basic Lexus…These automakers have started to lose their minds in pricing these cars. Then you have to deal with stupid dealer markups
I noticed that the Lexus TX550h+ stubby center brake light is much shorter in length than the Toyota Grand Highlander's center brake light, which thus looks more elegant IMHO. But I haven't seen the center brake light turned on in either vehicle. In reality they may both have an equal length in bulb light. IOW, it may all be for show on the Toyota Grand Highlander's center brake light.
That's because it's a gear driven CVT and not a belt driven CVT like Nissan or Honda. A lot of people think it's the same and the automatically hate on it when they hear CVT.
@@JacobTJ1 I think they didn’t want to use it for those applications because the clientele for those kinds of vehicles seem to irrationally care more about the vehicle staying as traditional as possible despite proven innovations for the sake of masculinity. When the tundra was first announced all of those folks went full pitchforks and torches bc Toyota dropped the 5.7 despite the 3.4 tt v6 being far more efficient yet still being more powerful. Imagine what they would do if Toyota put their CVT in their trucks.
@@huythai1222 yup that makes more sense, I am willing to bet you work for Lexus Engineering. I hope this CVT will eventually get popular before ICE fully concedes for the full EV revolution.
None of you proved me wrong as to why the tx is so good. I called it in June 8th that this was going to happen and that’s exactly what we got. The tx is such a letdown and idk why any reviewer bothered wasting their time with this Japanese GM suv when they could have spent that time driving competitive SUVs over and over again So in fact it’s you who lost.
Always love your collaborations with Alex on Autos, but this situation highlights something few testers ever cover: having passengers for "people mover" cars. Most car reviews feature only 1 person in the car, while these vehicles are bought with the intention of moving large families around. Road tests of these cars should factor in the weight of fully laden vehicles.
$80k+ with no massage….FWD Toyota platform…with no sunroof….come on Lexus. And they didn’t make any effort of making the exterior looks much different from the GH, it doesn’t even have passenger memory seats…I’ll take a MDX Type-S any day.
The Volvo has a much better interior. More luxury, better leather and wood (better interior materials overall). Same goes for BMW and MB, this car interior is not really luxury, mostly faux leather surfaces and no wood!
A great review as usual . . very refreshing to see Alex with you. I've been watching his reviews for years, too. I enjoyed the "back and fourth" of the conversation with the two BEST TH-cam auto reviewers online. ( Lexus STILL has to do something about the use of the awfully ugly grill before I'd ever own one again - some of the others who had those type of grills have made them less aggressive, maybe one day Lexus will )
Really they can never win with their grill. The previous 'predator' grill some said was too big and busy while some liked it, here they tamed it down more and now people dislike it being too plain Just do what you're doing lexus lol, people will hate it regardless
@@chibbyylolI think Lexus should give up and stop making cars. It’s clear they’re not able to compete with the best in the segment. Genesis Hyundai Kia Mazda Acura are doing better at that
@@naveenthemachine at some points I'd think you were actually serious but it's pretty blatant now you're trolling just to troll; criticizing is one thing but comments like "should just give up and stop making cars" is just absurd
@@chibbyylolbecause they’ve tried and failed to impress. They keep missing too many marks even when brand new Other brands like Hyundai Kia genesis Acura honda Mazda bmw Mercedes Audi never miss. I repeat they never miss. They always surpass expectations
As a 2023 palisade calligraphy owner I was looking forward to this when I first saw it and this is crap in my opinion when we are looking at a 80k+ price tag. It’s just so underwhelming IMO. My palisade from the looks looks like all 3 rows of seats are nicer and offer more but I guess this engine is worth 30k more. 🤦♂️. At this price I rather move into a Mercedes or bmw for a bit more or even the MDX type s. Again I do think it’s nice but not nice enough for this price.
No it’s not nice I told all of you that the Tx was such a disappointment. None of you listened. You all said the Tx will be better than a palisade I said it wouldn’t. But turns out I was right 😁.
The 255 tires are narrow on paper, but they don’t look too narrow and probably help with gas mileage. I’m guessing it’s a pretty wide rim (9” or 9.5”) to still give it a decent look.
They have absolutely botched the trim packages, it's inexcusable. The 500h can't be had with the Luxury trim and is saddled with that pathetic 4cyl. The 550h+ is the most expensive but is hampered by a CVT, and worse, doesn't have BASIC luxury features like adaptive dampers and rear wheel steering, even though the next trim level down has those. And no sunroof on the top trim!?! Their product planners should be fired. This model is arriving 5-10 years too late and they still screwed it up.
I called it all over the internet saying the TX was dead on arrival. And I’m so glad it turned out that way 😂😁 Maybe everyone shouldn’t have laughed at me
@@naveenthemachine except reliability...we considered the GLS, but will wait for this one instead.....that GLS has got too much problems and its 3rd row is too small for our teenage kids.
Damn,why didn't this come out sooner. Skipped the highlander and gx for got the gls, but this and the new gx looks great. Oh well, the gls is perfect for us atm.
Taking a look at the current Toyota/Lexus lineup. Since the Crown has traditionally been a Lexus GS why not rebadge the current crown as a GS with lots of horses power (throw gas mileage out of the window) and clean up the style with Lexus touches?
The current mirai platform was supposed to be what underpins a next gen GS as the platform is just a shortened version of the LS rwd TNGA-L. Unfortunately the ES does sell better and having both midsizes would cannibalize whatever sales are left in midsize luxury sedans.
I see too much piano black plastic and not enough wood. Wood would make the interior feel warmer and cozier. Wood and a little bit of metal would also make the interior look more sophisticated, which for me is part of the Lexus brand.
It's a real shame. Lexus used to be known for opulent wood and beautiful interior colors...now the interior is very austere with no wood (just "black grained trim") and very boring colors. I think Lexus lost the plot in their drive to decontent while charging $$.
As mentioned, In the US when a PHEV SUV exceeds $80k that vehicle is no longer eligible for the $7,500 tax credit. There are other criteria, but the TX appears to meet those. I bet no moonroof on the PHEV is more for cost than weight. I bet they get the MSRP (excluding destination costs) right under $80,000, even when loaded, at least for the first year. It would make no sense to have a PHEV be $81,000 or higher when making selling other for $80k means it only costs the consumer $72.5k.
@@upperleftnorthwest4278 Not necessarily. Starting in calendar year 2023 there are requirements regarding where A PORTION of the battery critical materials come from and where A PORTION of those materials are assembled into a battery. Only 40% of these minerals must come from the US OR a country that the US has a free trade agreement with. This portion of the critical minerals can also be recycled in North America to qualify, not just the US and regardless of origin. Additionally, 50% of the value of the battery assembly needs to occur in North America, not just the US. The percentages necessary increase over the next several years. If only one of these tests is met the maximum credit is $3,750. The maximum credit is $7,500 if both are met.
@@paulmorrow8372 neither the NX or RX plug in hybirds currently qualify for either portion of the tax credit & if the TX plug in is going to be the same then it probably wont qualify either. People will have to rely off of state phev credits
@@upperleftnorthwest4278 the RX and NX PHEV’s are both manufactured in Japan, not the Ontario, Canada facility. This is what disqualifies them. To my knowledge, the TX550h+ will be assembled in Indiana.
I am hearing that there will be a “ultra-luxury” TX550h+. While not nearly as expensive, it will be more like a “US Toyota Century”. I am betting that many things left out of the TX550h+ are to keep it under the $80K limit for the tax credit. The “ultra luxury” will blow past that.
I'm very disappointed in the TX version due to it not being a 7 seater and only being a 6 seater I would have gotten this over the Grand highlander itself!
The design is going to have to grow on me. The front end gives me way too much Toyota vibes. Not necessarily a bad thing but I’d rather have a more traditional Lexus style design. I love the fact that they are using a V6, however, they compare ruined that with the CVT transmission. It would’ve been almost perfect if they would’ve used an 8 speed or 10 speed transmission. The size is awesome, I’ve been hoping that Lexus would make a bigger SUV that actually has a decent 3rd row seat unlike the GX and LX which is ridiculous. The size is perfect but the styling, powertrains and price is the dealbreaker for me which is more than unfortunate.
Exterior 6.5/10 - it's just ok looking. Interior 3.0/10 - the interior doesn't look luxury in this video to me it looks to much like like a regular Toyota to me. Lexus had the best interiors a few years ago. I have not seen this in person. My opinions are based solely from what I've seen in this post.
Sounds Lexus/Toyota they did a lot of de-contenting to reach a price (or as suggested in the review: weight) point. No pano roof, no spare, no adjustable suspension and who knows what else... All for what ~$85K. Should sell like hotcakes!
Agreed. The tx is dated and it just went on sale I knew this was going to happen 😁. I called it on June 8th when it was unveiled that the tx is a letdown and it’s dead on arrival😁
Yes if you look for more cargo and passenger space and more refined engine. Especially if you want to keep it for a long time. For the XC90 recharge, that’s if you want more power and lesser efficiency while having European luxury experiences. It’s best if you lease the XC90 since the turbocharged engine in the XC90 could be problematic due to its complexity engine design and lesser refinement. Either choice will be your own decision.
@@naveenthemachine I heard the EV range for the XC90 that was officially published was a bit overestimated. The best I heard people get is at 27-28 miles full charge. The EV range for the TX for now said 33 miles but I will wait and see how people get with the real world driving to see whether 33 miles is about right, lower or higher than expected. Yes the performance in Volvo is better due to more power and torque, but this engine is way complicated and actually less refined than the 2GR V6. But I’m glad Volvo simplifies the engine a little bit and not have supercharger and turbocharged together anymore. So yeah, most consumer (at least in CA), people would definitely lease it while people buy the TX (theoretically like the RX). To simplify it, the XC90 is for people who wants excellent European luxury, performance (if people willing to drive aggressively), and Swedish-built while the TX is only for people (mostly, not all, loyalists) that just wants the brand, don’t care about performance, and the V6 PHEV powertrain (really the only reason if people wants TX for some reason).
Disappointed in the design. It doesn't differentiate itself from a Toyota design. In fact, the front end looks just like the 2016 Highlander. This 550h+ with the V6, is what I'd want to buy. But not for $75,000 and up for a Toyota design.
I’m shocked they didn’t offer the dynamic rear steering on the 550h+. It seems odd to build a different e-axle for the 550h+. This seems to me they are doing everything possible to get the 550 under $80k for the tax credit eligibility. They could be also hoping that Congress slightly bumps up the $80k to account for inflation.
Except it lacks Lexus personality both in exterior aesthetics as well as as interior luxury…. may as well just get a highlander and save yourself the $$$
@MrTeslaX true. I didn’t think about that. I forgot. But still, the TX is suppose to be ranked higher than RX and it stills just feel basic. Which is why I said LX for the flagship tag. But I just don’t understand why a person would pay 80k+ for this model when they can get the grand highlander for 10k less (max optioned)
@@dave7315 thanks for the response. I don't see any reason to buy TX over GH Hybrid Max unless you really care about the brand name. However, TX500h+ will be a different beast with V6+Hybrid but again it's gonna cost close to 80, not worth 20k+ over GH imo. I am currently considering 2023 GX460, GH Hybrid Max, or a used LX570. My heart and mind is set on LX but can't fathom 14mpg.
You need to know that the Toyota group is one of the highest shareholders in Mazda, so even if the TX doesn't sell well but the CX90 sells a lot then Toyota Group will still make a profit from Mazda sales.
I expect no soft touch plastics on a luxury vehicle that will cost over $80K….not to mention it looks like a Toyota, no panoramic sunroof, the rear seat looks very Toyota as well, the console should be more substantial
Lexus is getting so blatant with the Toyota part sharing. It is one thing to use the same platform and engine. It is another to copy and paste a Toyota product as a Lexus product to jack up the price. The GH is way better value even though the TX gets some exclusive features to make it seem more enticing. Both Toyota and Honda are getting so lazy with their luxury brands and are deliberately gimping their economy brands to give their luxury brands a fighting chance. When you compare the new Santa Fe and current Palisade, it is insane to see how much value they provide, and how many features they have that luxury brands do not provide. The Koreans focus on elevating both their economy brands and Genesis, rather than deliberately gimping their economy brand. Their new cars set standards for upscale economy that so called luxury brands like Lexus even copy.
I agree. But Hondas just fine. They’re better than Toyota and only Honda Mazda Acura can give the Koreans stiff competition. Toyota Lexus could only dream of such status
@@gerry9306 no Hondas better than Toyota. Better in every category you can think of. Otherwise Honda wouldn’t be the segment benchmark in their categories
@@naveenthemachine perhaps in your fantasies Naveen. Honda makes a good product but reliability analysis metrics show that Toyota is still the best in the world 🌎
Lexus is really milking their cult following for reliability no other automaker would get away with selling such underwhelming cars at such crazy high prices. There is nothing about this that should make it more expensive than a bmw X5…
Agreed. I called it all over the internet that the tx would be so underwhelming before it was even unveiled Im so glad me the internets biggest Toyota hater was proven right
But it has a naturally aspirated V-6. A trusty, proven and very reliable engine…. Far more reliability expected compared to the compact 4 turbos!
3 beam headlight would have helped distinguishing it from highlander
Yeah, it should have come standard with the 550h+
Hopefully they might update with the refresh
I love Alex on Autos. After searching and watching this Video, I didn't see Alex reviewing this model... now I see why. What a great collaboration.
A few surprises when I drove the TX. Materials. Shiny gloss plastic around the cluster. Felt upscale Corolla vs. luxury like an up-trimmed GX. Driving - felt like sitting on top of the car vs. sitting in the car like my X7. Fair bit of plastic around the car. Instrument cluster was limited for what a digital display could be. Suspension was fine, but best version of this was the entry level 20" tires (no air suspension across the line). The sunroof omission was surprising - losing a mile or two wouldn't be a bad tradeoff.
Lexus needs a 550h+ Platinum F-sport model with Genesis GV80 interior. It needs the panoramic roof, aggressive Fsport bumpers, triple beam lights, rear wheel steering, massage seats x4, add heat and ventilation to 3rd row seats, heads up display, and 1 more small electric motor in the transmission to add 15hp and 100 ft/lb torque towards performance. Exterior could feature a more spindled grille like the previous RX models, power side steps, and carbon fiber or polished bits of trim. Maybe add a heads-up display, and standard rear tablets/tv monitors with power privacy shades. Call it the 600h
That will never happen. Lexus couldn’t even do that if they wanted to. Genesis Hyundai Kia could
It will be next LX600h model, hopefully 🤞
Tbh, all I need is a pano roof and a bench seat and I'm good 😅. Everything else would be amazing though!
It does have Pano roof as one of the options, go to Lexus.com and configure it.
@@naveenthemachine Like I said, it has pano roof and the rest of "sports" junks for people who like the aggressive look....this is a 3 row SUV....who cares to impress the "NASCAR" fanatics!!!
The Toyota/Lexus camera sweep may not be very useful, but if you put the car in drive and hit the camera view button it will give you additional views that you can cycle through. Weird that they don’t come up in park but they can be helpful.
6 passenger is the only problem. Dont see the need to get a 3 row to carry 1 additional person
Overall I like the TX and it is going to end up replacing our GH, I am kinda bummed they don’t offer the pano roof on the plug-in because we are looking to get the plug-in version. Hopefully they’ll add it in later and some triple beam LED’s, but what you’re really paying for is the plug-in system. 404hp plus 30mpg, and 33 miles of EV driving range is very hard to beat in this segment
If you're going to buy a new Lexus as your next car, you might as well just wait for the Lexus LM. That's what I'm going to get at least.
@@j0epark1One problem though. The Lexus LM is not available for the North American market.
What didn’t you like about the GH? Didn’t that just come out?
@@jissanhuq3792 Oh we love our GH, its been amazing, especially in the hybrid max form we have it in, we really want the Plug-in hybrid system
@@jissanhuq3792the GH is ugly dated cheaply built not more spacious than rivals, overpriced lacks features
I actually like the look of this car inside and out. The modular center console is a good idea but looks a little cheap. I suspect most people will leave it alone, so a more traditional console would have been nicer. Keeping the V6 was a good move and helps to set it apart from the Toyota GH in a meaningful way, along with the different interior and standard large infotainment screen. The one major misstep is lack of a pano sunroof, which could be a deal breaker.
V6 is the worst on gas everyone noes that
I wish it had more wood trim, to have a more luxurious feel…a little ambient lighting feature
I like it without panoramic roof because they may leak water, break, and are noisy when it rains.
This is nice. This is the engine the Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX should've gotten.
No panoroof is a genuine disappointment considering this will be $80k+ vehicle
The guy above you explained why no panoroof. Also Panoroof overrated asf
@@kenchen704So glad a slick top was an option
Why doesn't my guy not have 1 million subscribers already????
He does now! 😊
Can’t believe they let you drive the V6 hybrid😍😍
And it’s still very slow😂. And it’s not very efficient and it’s way overpriced
@@naveenthemachinestfu I don’t need your opinion BOT
@@naveenthemachineslow? 5.5 seconds is slow? And what 5400lbs car does 30mpg?
@@abdullahbinshahid319930mpg? Who cares!? It’s a luxury car
An xc90 does 27mpg has more ev range and it’s significantly faster and costs less
@@naveenthemachine and is smaller, as is more fwd based. 30mpg means more range, people don't like to fill up every now and then
This is the best third row vehicle I drove in a long time
glad to hear you can get it without the pano roof. Better for loading kayaks and gear. DC fast charge would have been good for along distance hauler
People keep saying better options, so please list them.
As far as I'm concerned 2GR V6 with D4S is one of the smoothest/ reliable engines on the market and combined with the plug in to increase mpg is definitely a winner. The 550+ is unrivaled for power/ reliability/ mpg/ space, which is what a family 3 row is all about, styling is subjective. Only down side is tech.
That’s easy
Telluride palisade MDX pilot cx90 aviator wagoneer Escalade x7 gv80 xc90 q7 qx60 xt6. All of these are better than the tx
@naveenthemachine
Telluride/ palisade/ mdx :are very comparable just poor mpg.
Aviator/ wagoner / x7 /xc90:poor reliability/ mpg/ more expensive.
Escalade is different class of car.
Qx60/xt6 nobody buys these 😆
Next?
@@xr4zgr1zx mpg doesn’t matter in a luxury car. You want the luxury of mpg get a Prius or Camry hybrid
Qx60 xt6 are so much nicer inside and better looking outside and have more features and upscale materials and a smooth v6
The tx is the worst of the bunch in the 3row segment along with the grand highlander. Previously the qx60 and xt6 used to be the worst but now the tx and grand highlander are now the worst in class
@naveenthemachine mpg doesn't matter in a car that's meant for road trips? Have you seen the gas prices lately and have you ever try to go on a road trip with anything that gets less then 20 mpg? Mpg doesn't matter in a sports car, but it does in this application. Maybe in your opinion it doesn't work for you specifically but the numbers don't lie. All subjectivity aside, just even the horsepower and mpg figures are better than any of the cars you previously mentioned.
Naveen ur such a passionate lexus hater. Why are u even following?
In my opinion, it's nicely done inside, but still a top trim Highlander outside. Another great review!
30:30 what I hear you saying is that Toyota and Lexus need to produce more PEV, and I agree. Would love a PEV Sienna.
I don’t know how you memorize all those details Sofyan? A lot of factoids to recall. Great review as usual!
We’re getting closer to 1 million
LETS GO SOFYAN!!!!!!!!
No sunroof. Deal killer for me, I’m out
I wouldn't be surprised if this TX PHEV will be very close to $90,000 with any option packages (if there are any.)
Should've listened to Sofyan. His guesstimate was almost spot on. (79k starting.) 😊
I’m trying to wrap my head around why Lexus won’t make a 7 seat hybrid for families. Having 3 kids I’d have to compromise my trunk space.
All these companies just need to create a van with 8.5" of ground clearance and 30" Wheel total diameter in a 3 row, 8-9 passenger configuration + trunk space in a full size width and it will sell like hot cakes. All these crazy house prices are increasing multi-generational households in america and people need bigger people movers that don't scrape the curb
@@TheMrHueyFreemanso a Sienna that’s raised by like a solid 4 inches
Put a JourneysOffRoad lift kit on a Sienna and you've got it!@@TheMrHueyFreeman
Only reason I would not buy this is the captain chairs .... I got kids.
Buy a used Sienna, install the Journeys Off Road lift kit, and save your money for a house. Why spend $80k on a Lexus that will be worth half that in only a few years?@@TheMrHueyFreeman
As soon as I heard “No Sunroof/Pano” I exited the video
Lol triggered? 😂😂
Same man. I hope he’s wrong cuz that seems idiotic.
@@jissanhuq3792 I ain’t paying all that money for a basic Lexus…These automakers have started to lose their minds in pricing these cars. Then you have to deal with stupid dealer markups
If you go for the Lexus TX 350 luxury(gas) you will get all of these features with the sunroof/pano.
I love the added weight, cost, and noise while being a giant expense if it fails all for something I never see as the driver.
No massage or pano roof? Why pay more for this over the Grand Highlander?
They hoped you wouldn’t notice…
The only real selling point is the PHEV, since the GH doesn't have a PHEV option.
@@habu987yup... no point getting the TX over the GH unless you're going for the V6. The GH is already pretty good to begin with
The interior is too Toyota, not Lexus enough to justify these prices, and the front end is not good
Other than that, it's a home run
Interior? Thisnwhole thing is a highlander with a different body design and bdge😂
You didn’t mention the Mazda CX-90 as a comparison. MB GLE 450e comes into play at this price point as well.
Although for some reason the GLE450e doesn't offer the third row. If cargo room and luxury is what you're going after, the X5 50e is also an option.
I noticed that the Lexus TX550h+ stubby center brake light is much shorter in length than the Toyota Grand Highlander's center brake light, which thus looks more elegant IMHO.
But I haven't seen the center brake light turned on in either vehicle. In reality they may both have an equal length in bulb light. IOW, it may all be for show on the Toyota Grand Highlander's center brake light.
I love Toyota's power split CVT, didn't realize it still works well on high torque applications such as this big car
That's because it's a gear driven CVT and not a belt driven CVT like Nissan or Honda. A lot of people think it's the same and the automatically hate on it when they hear CVT.
@@xr4zgr1zx I know that, I am asking why they chose not to use it on the Tundra and Sequoia hybrid
Me too! it’s such a smooth drive train and extremely reliable too (26 years largely unchanged).
@@JacobTJ1 I think they didn’t want to use it for those applications because the clientele for those kinds of vehicles seem to irrationally care more about the vehicle staying as traditional as possible despite proven innovations for the sake of masculinity. When the tundra was first announced all of those folks went full pitchforks and torches bc Toyota dropped the 5.7 despite the 3.4 tt v6 being far more efficient yet still being more powerful. Imagine what they would do if Toyota put their CVT in their trucks.
@@huythai1222 yup that makes more sense, I am willing to bet you work for Lexus Engineering. I hope this CVT will eventually get popular before ICE fully concedes for the full EV revolution.
This vehicle is built in Indiana, not Illinois. Not that big a deal, but just wanted to point it out. Great review also.
finally, a steel roof! and extra head room!!!!!
Here before naveenthekoreanmachine and his alts touting Korean supremacy
Different time zone in Korea
What are his alts lol, but, I do agree with him on a few points, however, this is still a good suv, but I’d definitely take an MDX.
None of you proved me wrong as to why the tx is so good. I called it in June 8th that this was going to happen and that’s exactly what we got.
The tx is such a letdown and idk why any reviewer bothered wasting their time with this Japanese GM suv when they could have spent that time driving competitive SUVs over and over again
So in fact it’s you who lost.
@@naveenthemachine you can watch the vid to see sofyan proving you wrong since he seemed pleased with the vehicle
@@chibbyylol because he’s in a media event. He has to be nice otherwise he’ll get banned
I'm curious as to which mid-size SUV is the most comfortable over crappy roads.
Now my perfect Lexus PHEV to buy Sofyan.
No it’s not. Please don’t waste your money on this rav4. Get something superior
Bummed the TX doesnt have a paronomic roof although it is pretty heavy but also wished that it was a little bigger to fit 7 or 8 people.
Great review Redline!! I do wish the triple beam was available on this one😢😢
But magnificent nonetheless, c'mon GX quit hiding😂😂
The grand Highlander is selling very well. I have yet to see a TX on the road.
They just made it to dealers last week.
I hope i don’t see one of those monstrosities on the road. The telluride palisade cx90 gv80 MDX xc90 aviator have more presence
@@naveenthemachine I'm proud of you.
@@maxcurry9667I saw a couple driving a Volvo XC90 breaking their necks looking at an incognito TX in a grocery store parling lot
Probably cause people like the Grand highlander more due to it being an adventurous car and not a Boring styled corporate car like the TX I guess.
Always love your collaborations with Alex on Autos, but this situation highlights something few testers ever cover: having passengers for "people mover" cars. Most car reviews feature only 1 person in the car, while these vehicles are bought with the intention of moving large families around. Road tests of these cars should factor in the weight of fully laden vehicles.
$80k+ with no massage….FWD Toyota platform…with no sunroof….come on Lexus. And they didn’t make any effort of making the exterior looks much different from the GH, it doesn’t even have passenger memory seats…I’ll take a MDX Type-S any day.
@@naveenthemachine I didn’t laugh…I’m not a fan of Lexus…I own an Acura and Hyundai.
@@naveenthemachine I'll laugh when next quarter's sales is out
@@chibbyylol yeah…unfortunately…people don’t realize the better options out..they just get it because it’s a Lexus and it’s big
@@chibbyylolI’ll laugh when I see the tx ranked dead last in rankings
Don't be haters like Mr naveen 😂. People will buy them especially here in Southern California
The Volvo has a much better interior. More luxury, better leather and wood (better interior materials overall). Same goes for BMW and MB, this car interior is not really luxury, mostly faux leather surfaces and no wood!
Agreed. Literally anything else it competes with is so much nicer
That’s going to be more reliable than the 2.4 hybrid max
A great review as usual . . very refreshing to see Alex with you. I've been watching his reviews for years, too. I enjoyed the "back and fourth" of the conversation with the two BEST TH-cam auto reviewers online. ( Lexus STILL has to do something about the use of the awfully ugly grill before I'd ever own one again - some of the others who had those type of grills have made them less aggressive, maybe one day Lexus will )
Really they can never win with their grill. The previous 'predator' grill some said was too big and busy while some liked it, here they tamed it down more and now people dislike it being too plain
Just do what you're doing lexus lol, people will hate it regardless
@@chibbyylolI think Lexus should give up and stop making cars. It’s clear they’re not able to compete with the best in the segment. Genesis Hyundai Kia Mazda Acura are doing better at that
@@naveenthemachine at some points I'd think you were actually serious but it's pretty blatant now you're trolling just to troll; criticizing is one thing but comments like "should just give up and stop making cars" is just absurd
@@chibbyylolbecause they’ve tried and failed to impress. They keep missing too many marks even when brand new
Other brands like Hyundai Kia genesis Acura honda Mazda bmw Mercedes Audi never miss. I repeat they never miss. They always surpass expectations
@@chibbyylolIt's quite sad really, why fight so hard for there downfall. I can name 10 manufacturers that will collapse long before Lexus does.
As a 2023 palisade calligraphy owner I was looking forward to this when I first saw it and this is crap in my opinion when we are looking at a 80k+ price tag. It’s just so underwhelming IMO. My palisade from the looks looks like all 3 rows of seats are nicer and offer more but I guess this engine is worth 30k more. 🤦♂️. At this price I rather move into a Mercedes or bmw for a bit more or even the MDX type s. Again I do think it’s nice but not nice enough for this price.
No it’s not nice
I told all of you that the Tx was such a disappointment. None of you listened. You all said the Tx will be better than a palisade I said it wouldn’t. But turns out I was right 😁.
The 255 tires are narrow on paper, but they don’t look too narrow and probably help with gas mileage. I’m guessing it’s a pretty wide rim (9” or 9.5”) to still give it a decent look.
They have absolutely botched the trim packages, it's inexcusable. The 500h can't be had with the Luxury trim and is saddled with that pathetic 4cyl. The 550h+ is the most expensive but is hampered by a CVT, and worse, doesn't have BASIC luxury features like adaptive dampers and rear wheel steering, even though the next trim level down has those. And no sunroof on the top trim!?!
Their product planners should be fired. This model is arriving 5-10 years too late and they still screwed it up.
I called it all over the internet saying the TX was dead on arrival. And I’m so glad it turned out that way 😂😁
Maybe everyone shouldn’t have laughed at me
With an adult sized 3rd row, this is Lexus' version of the Mercedes GLS.
But this is a worse vehicle than the GLS in every aspect
@@naveenthemachine except reliability...we considered the GLS, but will wait for this one instead.....that GLS has got too much problems and its 3rd row is too small for our teenage kids.
It got the most reliable engine compared to all new cars nothing comes even close.
It's a Lexus must all the features that are not available on the Grand Highlander Lexus must fix all the missing features on the plug in hybrid
Lexus dropped the ball with so many missing features . Even their top of the line LX only offers massage seats for the rear NOT THE FRONT for driver .
Agreed. I kept saying all over the internet that lexus phoned it in
No one listened yet here we are where everyone is very disappointed 😁
Lexus overated cramped cars compared to Toyota jus to make slopping roof in a suv i want a practical vehicle no slopping roof
Patently untrue, according to the Lexus USA website.
Damn,why didn't this come out sooner. Skipped the highlander and gx for got the gls, but this and the new gx looks great. Oh well, the gls is perfect for us atm.
It's a small battery. Normal battery range on PHEV nowadays can make up to 100km om battery...
Taking a look at the current Toyota/Lexus lineup. Since the Crown has traditionally been a Lexus GS why not rebadge the current crown as a GS with lots of horses power (throw gas mileage out of the window) and clean up the style with Lexus touches?
The current mirai platform was supposed to be what underpins a next gen GS as the platform is just a shortened version of the LS rwd TNGA-L. Unfortunately the ES does sell better and having both midsizes would cannibalize whatever sales are left in midsize luxury sedans.
@@huythai1222yeah it’s a shame really. I love the ES, and would probably get the 300h when I save up, but I’d love to get a GS
Wow 5400 pounds ? That’s 800 pounds more than BMW x5 , good video very details on it :)
I would like to point out that this is lighter than the new M5
V6 power? 4 cilinder power, excellent car, very fuel efficient.
Can someone tell me why every TH-camr review in the TX has dark colored interiors?
I priced up one of these. It was $82k. I like it but it is too much for me. I wish there was more 3-row PHEV competition.
At this price point no pano roof not acceptable for Lexus buyers
Great review, but are you sure this model can tow up to 5000lb it has CVT transmission?
The lack of triple beam LED room prevents me buy this one until they release it at later date.
Lexus and Toyota coming out with hella cars to look forward to! I’m gonna wait for that redesigned Camry PHEV.
The current Camry is probably the best you’ll get. The next one will be a disappointment
That spindle grille is a mystery, why does Lexus think people want that? At least they toned it down a little.
Where the hell is the sunroof on this bus
I see too much piano black plastic and not enough wood. Wood would make the interior feel warmer and cozier. Wood and a little bit of metal would also make the interior look more sophisticated, which for me is part of the Lexus brand.
I agree. It’s unfortunate Lexus is getting rid of wood on all of their new and refreshed models.
Lexus is not a luxury brand anymore. They’re just a Toyota + brand. Hyundai Kia genesis Mazda Lincoln Acura Rivian Jeep are the next Lexus
It's a real shame. Lexus used to be known for opulent wood and beautiful interior colors...now the interior is very austere with no wood (just "black grained trim") and very boring colors.
I think Lexus lost the plot in their drive to decontent while charging $$.
As mentioned, In the US when a PHEV SUV exceeds $80k that vehicle is no longer eligible for the $7,500 tax credit. There are other criteria, but the TX appears to meet those. I bet no moonroof on the PHEV is more for cost than weight. I bet they get the MSRP (excluding destination costs) right under $80,000, even when loaded, at least for the first year. It would make no sense to have a PHEV be $81,000 or higher when making selling other for $80k means it only costs the consumer $72.5k.
No it’ll be over 85k easily
The batteries have to be produced in america for the vehicle to qualify for the $7500 tax credit.
@@upperleftnorthwest4278 Not necessarily. Starting in calendar year 2023 there are requirements regarding where A PORTION of the battery critical materials come from and where A PORTION of those materials are assembled into a battery. Only 40% of these minerals must come from the US OR a country that the US has a free trade agreement with. This portion of the critical minerals can also be recycled in North America to qualify, not just the US and regardless of origin. Additionally, 50% of the value of the battery assembly needs to occur in North America, not just the US. The percentages necessary increase over the next several years. If only one of these tests is met the maximum credit is $3,750. The maximum credit is $7,500 if both are met.
@@paulmorrow8372 neither the NX or RX plug in hybirds currently qualify for either portion of the tax credit & if the TX plug in is going to be the same then it probably wont qualify either. People will have to rely off of state phev credits
@@upperleftnorthwest4278 the RX and NX PHEV’s are both manufactured in Japan, not the Ontario, Canada facility. This is what disqualifies them. To my knowledge, the TX550h+ will be assembled in Indiana.
its so big it makes 22’s look like 21’s
I am hearing that there will be a “ultra-luxury” TX550h+. While not nearly as expensive, it will be more like a “US Toyota Century”. I am betting that many things left out of the TX550h+ are to keep it under the $80K limit for the tax credit. The “ultra luxury” will blow past that.
I'm very disappointed in the TX version due to it not being a 7 seater and only being a 6 seater I would have gotten this over the Grand highlander itself!
The design is going to have to grow on me. The front end gives me way too much Toyota vibes. Not necessarily a bad thing but I’d rather have a more traditional Lexus style design. I love the fact that they are using a V6, however, they compare ruined that with the CVT transmission. It would’ve been almost perfect if they would’ve used an 8 speed or 10 speed transmission. The size is awesome, I’ve been hoping that Lexus would make a bigger SUV that actually has a decent 3rd row seat unlike the GX and LX which is ridiculous. The size is perfect but the styling, powertrains and price is the dealbreaker for me which is more than unfortunate.
Exterior 6.5/10 - it's just ok looking.
Interior 3.0/10 - the interior doesn't look luxury in this video to me it looks to much like like a regular Toyota to me. Lexus had the best interiors a few years ago.
I have not seen this in person. My opinions are based solely from what I've seen in this post.
Sounds Lexus/Toyota they did a lot of de-contenting to reach a price (or as suggested in the review: weight) point. No pano roof, no spare, no adjustable suspension and who knows what else... All for what ~$85K. Should sell like hotcakes!
When the brand new Hyundai Santa Fe is introduced at the LA auto show, this is going to look very last year.
Agreed. The tx is dated and it just went on sale
I knew this was going to happen 😁. I called it on June 8th when it was unveiled that the tx is a letdown and it’s dead on arrival😁
@@naveenthemachineI'm ready to get mine this weekend!
@@devinlwoodsthe tx? Enjoy your 1990 suv at 2023 prices 😂
But if you’re getting a Santa Fe I’d say you made a very good choice
Is the V6 of the TX550h+ compelling enough to consider over the XC90 Recharge.
Yes if you look for more cargo and passenger space and more refined engine. Especially if you want to keep it for a long time.
For the XC90 recharge, that’s if you want more power and lesser efficiency while having European luxury experiences. It’s best if you lease the XC90 since the turbocharged engine in the XC90 could be problematic due to its complexity engine design and lesser refinement.
Either choice will be your own decision.
@@naveenthemachine I heard the EV range for the XC90 that was officially published was a bit overestimated. The best I heard people get is at 27-28 miles full charge. The EV range for the TX for now said 33 miles but I will wait and see how people get with the real world driving to see whether 33 miles is about right, lower or higher than expected. Yes the performance in Volvo is better due to more power and torque, but this engine is way complicated and actually less refined than the 2GR V6. But I’m glad Volvo simplifies the engine a little bit and not have supercharger and turbocharged together anymore. So yeah, most consumer (at least in CA), people would definitely lease it while people buy the TX (theoretically like the RX). To simplify it, the XC90 is for people who wants excellent European luxury, performance (if people willing to drive aggressively), and Swedish-built while the TX is only for people (mostly, not all, loyalists) that just wants the brand, don’t care about performance, and the V6 PHEV powertrain (really the only reason if people wants TX for some reason).
@@joecrash1232Naveen is a troll. Report him.
Disappointed in the design. It doesn't differentiate itself from a Toyota design. In fact, the front end looks just like the 2016 Highlander. This 550h+ with the V6, is what I'd want to buy. But not for $75,000 and up for a Toyota design.
Detoyotafication didn’t work for this one, try again.
Does it have towing mode?
We can’t get a panoramic sunroof with this trim?!
sounds better than the 4 cyl.
I have a feeling that Toyota put in the V6 back for the Centuy SUV, for which uses the same architecture.
The body shape looks a lot like the grand highlander
same platform
I’m shocked they didn’t offer the dynamic rear steering on the 550h+. It seems odd to build a different e-axle for the 550h+. This seems to me they are doing everything possible to get the 550 under $80k for the tax credit eligibility. They could be also hoping that Congress slightly bumps up the $80k to account for inflation.
Maybe the bigger battery pack gets in the way?
Would be nice if someone could show viewers what the interior looks like at night.
Aside lack of massage seats this car is perfect. Spacious, good tech,reliability, v6 with hybrid combo . It ticks all boxes
Except it lacks Lexus personality both in exterior aesthetics as well as as interior luxury…. may as well just get a highlander and save yourself the $$$
@@beri232 if it has v6 I can buy it
@@kevij371 they never should have gotten rid of their V6. We have a 2022 RX350 and I would buy it again 100%
@@beri232That’s true. They made this move to pass emission regulations. It’s sad to not have the butter smooth V6 engine anymore other than the PHEV.
Might as well get an LX tbh.
used LX but bad MPG
@MrTeslaX true. I didn’t think about that. I forgot. But still, the TX is suppose to be ranked higher than RX and it stills just feel basic. Which is why I said LX for the flagship tag. But I just don’t understand why a person would pay 80k+ for this model when they can get the grand highlander for 10k less (max optioned)
@@dave7315 thanks for the response. I don't see any reason to buy TX over GH Hybrid Max unless you really care about the brand name. However, TX500h+ will be a different beast with V6+Hybrid but again it's gonna cost close to 80, not worth 20k+ over GH imo.
I am currently considering 2023 GX460, GH Hybrid Max, or a used LX570. My heart and mind is set on LX but can't fathom 14mpg.
The V6 FTW!
80K?! I will go with GX550
80k I’ll go with anything else like the telluride palisade gv80 cx90 grand Cherokee summit aviator etc
a luxury highlander with no pano roof at the price of BMW x7 and Mercedes gls 💀
Is it truly not going to have a panorama or any sunroof??? That’s going to be an instant no then for me
💯 true! It’s not even an option for 550h
Hopefully they've omitted these features to get the pricing under $80k to qualify for tax rebates. If not, then total BS.
The Lexus it's a fake premium because it's Toyota with another logo and another exterior but inside it's just Toyota but price plus 50% .....WTF😮
Big big car, but only six seats? I'm out. Bought the XC 90 T8 Recharge.
A V6 in a glorified mini van… and the new “Land Cruiser” gets a 4… Toyota/Lexus has gone nuts and lost focus
For the money I’ll take an X5 and to hell with third row seating!
There is no point in reviewing a car that will only have 100 in production per year.😂
Completely forgot about Mazda cx90?
The cx90 mops the tx off the floor inside and out
@@naveenthemachine agreed, just bought one and love it.
You need to know that the Toyota group is one of the highest shareholders in Mazda, so even if the TX doesn't sell well but the CX90 sells a lot then Toyota Group will still make a profit from Mazda sales.
This should have had the 4 cylinder, doesn’t make sense to have a plug in with this motor, you basically negate the efficiency.
I expect no soft touch plastics on a luxury vehicle that will cost over $80K….not to mention it looks like a Toyota, no panoramic sunroof, the rear seat looks very Toyota as well, the console should be more substantial
I don't know what it is, but stylistically it lacks so much soul and character. It makes a lot of sense on paper, though.
On paper no it doesn’t. It doesn’t make sense in any way
Lexus is getting so blatant with the Toyota part sharing. It is one thing to use the same platform and engine. It is another to copy and paste a Toyota product as a Lexus product to jack up the price. The GH is way better value even though the TX gets some exclusive features to make it seem more enticing. Both Toyota and Honda are getting so lazy with their luxury brands and are deliberately gimping their economy brands to give their luxury brands a fighting chance. When you compare the new Santa Fe and current Palisade, it is insane to see how much value they provide, and how many features they have that luxury brands do not provide. The Koreans focus on elevating both their economy brands and Genesis, rather than deliberately gimping their economy brand. Their new cars set standards for upscale economy that so called luxury brands like Lexus even copy.
Thanks for your opinion fella
I agree. But Hondas just fine. They’re better than Toyota and only Honda Mazda Acura can give the Koreans stiff competition. Toyota Lexus could only dream of such status
@@naveenthemachine Honda? I wouldn't even want you to drive a Honda 😂
@@gerry9306 no Hondas better than Toyota. Better in every category you can think of. Otherwise Honda wouldn’t be the segment benchmark in their categories
@@naveenthemachine perhaps in your fantasies Naveen. Honda makes a good product but reliability analysis metrics show that Toyota is still the best in the world 🌎
Lexus is really milking their cult following for reliability no other automaker would get away with selling such underwhelming cars at such crazy high prices. There is nothing about this that should make it more expensive than a bmw X5…
Agreed. I called it all over the internet that the tx would be so underwhelming before it was even unveiled
Im so glad me the internets biggest Toyota hater was proven right