Is the 2024 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail a BETTER luxury SUV than a Land Rover Defender? 

Unlike any land rover product the lexus will still be running after 8 years😂😂

I have had a 2020 Defender for about 3 years now - it has been a COLOSSAL disappointment. I think it's one of the coolest looking, worst built vehicles I've ever experienced. I have had over $35,000 worth of warranty work done and it is at the dealership right now for a new ECM and new wiring harness - they estimate 40+ hours of shop time. I told them I will NOT be picking it up. I'M DONE. Yes, I know mine is a lemon but let's be honest, Land Rover simply CANNOT build a reliable vehicle. They look great but are RUBBISH. I have ordered my GX and although it will likely be a few months before it arrives, I don't care. I'm SO excited to get out of my Defender and into a GX it makes me delirious. When I watch this review, I feel so happy in the knowledge that I'm going from hell to heaven in one quick change!

Anything made by Lexus is far better than anything made by 99% of the manufacturers out there. The vehicles are super reliable, super comfortable, and extremely well thought out. I’ll never drive anything else as a daily driver.

The green looks amazing in the Overtrail.

I believe it is a DIRECT COMPETITOR FOR THE DEFENDER. Reliability, technology, resale, overall, a super package. Keep this up Lexus.

Unfair to zonk the sunroof on the Overtrail trim. Most of the aftermarket roof racks aren’t compatible with the pano sunroof. It is available on the Luxury trim. The Overtrail actually options a sunroof delete to accommodate full length roof racks and saves you $1,100. My two cents. Agree with all other zonks though. Gotta tuck in that rear wiper up top!!

What a badass machine Joe, telling my brother he needs to buy one lol. Nori Green is stunning

I love the color, Joe. Nori Green kinda reminds me of an army tank. I'm sure with GX first drive being here, I'm sure the Land Cruiser isn't far behind!

Cool review ss always. Im still driving a 1995 ls 400 with 307,000 miles and it doesn't skip a beat. Also been driven in mn its whole life with minimal rust. Keep up the awesome reviews! More drifting in parking lots please! 😂

This suv is almost perfect for me. I’m not a fan of panoramic roofs. I’m glad this trim has a traditional moon roof.

I've fallen in love with it!! 😍 Thx for the review, Joe!!!

Man Raiti can sell ANYTHING. The G.O.A.T. of auto reviews.

What I love about the Defender is the option for premium rubber floor instead of carpet. No crumbs, nothing in your carpet. Just soak down the Defender floor and you can get every speck of everything off your floor and it looks pristine all the time. And that floor doesn't feel cheap to the touch at all.

I ordered one today 🎉 overtrail + nori green

Wow. Havent seen many offroad Lexus vehicles around these parts. Impressive looking machine!

The GX 550 would make an excellent ski vehicle or beach 4x4 fun. If I could afford on I would definitely buy one!

Unacceptable Zonk on the roof. Overlanding vehicles DO NOT need panoramic roofs simply because your heavy equipment will shatter it. The other trims literally exist to compensate that, they’re all different for this reason. Even better yet you can option for No sun roof and save money also adding even more structural support. Great review nonetheless.

The color is perfect for this vehicle.

Good luck being as reliable as the previous gen. That platform existed since 2002. I'm happy to see body on frame real suvs continue to exist.

This Lexus is really cool! I’d like to get that one. Nori Green is stunning on this car, and plus it’s a luxury brand of Toyota which I’d love to get one mostly because Car Wizard recommended to get one. Thanks for sharing this car with us!

Great review of this new Lexus GX Joe. Since you are my #1 reviewer, it stands to reason that I got my twinkies and sat down for this first review! My only wish is that I got to be out there with you and Lori in this one as you tackled that trail. Definitely have this one top of my next vehicle list put probably in the premium+ grade. I want an operable moonroof and luxury+ has a nice one but seems stationary? Also, like my running boards to be usable without having to open the doors/not sure if they can be set in a fixed open position. My only real concern is the gas mileage, so might have to wait and see what the upcoming hybrid model offers.

Best car channel on the Tubes!

Love that it looks the business and performs offroad with ease as well. It kind of gives me the old Honda Pilot vibe a little with the design and I loved those old Honda Pilots.

Love it! So pretty

Apostle Joe, I dig the fake vents & I think it give it style as appose to a plain & boring sheet of green metal on the bumper and I think this is a peach of an SUV.

Can't wait to see the new 4 runner after this

That Lexus is a nice ride !

I have to disagree, I HATE sunroofs/ pano sunroofs. I actually love that you can spec this car without a sunroof for the overtrail trim❤

My assessment is based on what I observed at the Auto Show in California. For comparing this SUV, I recommend examining others. To attend, both my wife and I had to pay a $30 fee, and I was particularly eager to personally see the Lexus GX due to the hype surrounding it as a large off-road SUV. Before I outline the positives and negatives, I want to express my anticipation spanning decades for the GX to unveil a new design. However, I am disappointed with what I encountered. Pros: * The shape is commendable, featuring a perfect boxy design akin to competitors such as the Defender, Jeep Cherokee, and GMC. * While the central infotainment system is not groundbreaking, it maintains consistency with other Lexus models, which is acceptable. * Cons: * There are numerous drawbacks. The model I viewed exceeded $77k and lacked the ML sound system. * The absence of a panoramic sunroof, now a standard feature in modern vehicles, detracts from the luxurious experience. * The panoramic sunroof in the Luxury+ model is underwhelming and seems to mimic the idea from the Venza, which has been on the market for over six years. * The quality of leather and interior falls short compared to other SUVs in the same price range. Even the Toyota Highlander boasts superior interior quality. * The exterior feels excessively plastic, particularly upon contact with the bumper, hood, and other body panels. * Leather quality across all trims is subpar. * Fuel economy poses a significant issue in 2024, averaging only 17 mpg. * Many materials exude a cheap feel, failing to deliver a luxurious experience. * If one opts for all available options on the Lexus GX 550, it may be preferable to choose the LX 600, which offers a higher level of luxury and power. * For a better depiction of luxury, consider examining the Infiniti QX80: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-NMzD7nLQlDY.html I've been a longtime enthusiast of this SUV, but now, even surpassing $80k plus tax, it's hardly worth the investment. In 2024, there's a myriad of alternative options I've contemplated, including the Ford F150 Electric, Rivian, Cybertruck, GMC Denali AT4, Sequoia, and the Volkswagen Atlas Off-Road version, among others, boasting advanced technology and commendable qualities. Toyota and Lexus seem to be marketing very basic vehicles under the guise of reliability. Many individuals I conversed with at the auto show shared my sentiment that the GX 550 pales in comparison to the 460 in terms of quality, feeling cheaply constructed. It appears that RU-vid influencers may be sponsored by Toyota and Lexus, with many Toyota dealers hyping these vehicles on social media to attract buyers. This SUV no longer epitomizes luxury, not by a long shot. If you disregard reliability and juxtapose it against brands like BMW, Audi, and Land Rover, it's disheartening to witness its decline. Purchasing this vehicle entails enduring it for another six years solely to mitigate depreciation, while numerous other automakers are already introducing superior and more advanced technology. At present, I must explore alternative options, as this SUV is not worth $85k out of the door, if you're fortunate enough. Best wishes with your new purchase. Just bear in mind, many individuals are compensated for endorsing Toyota and Lexus brands, and I've encountered numerous instances of Toyota dealers leveraging social media to generate interest in these vehicles. In conclusion, this is merely my perspective. Enjoy your new purchase

Off-road vehicles don’t need sunroofs in the event of a rollover. I like it. I have to decide in the 550 or 460. I’m buying one soon. Great job joe

Really wish they did a 40/20/40 split rear seat like in the 4Runner. Other than that, loving what I'm seeing so far!

Im loving this Lexus! Thanks Joe!

Even though the GX came out in 2003 in NA, it always was a capable off-roader since it is essentially a Lexus badged Land Cruiser Prado. However most people don't know about it until the mid 2010's when overlanding became popular. Similar to Land Cruiser 80/LX450, Land Cruiser 100/LX470, LC 200/LX570, and LC300/LX600. Not a rock crawler like Jeep Wranglers, but it can hold its own on most trails. MotorTrend even had a 2004 Trail Lex GX470 they took to Rubicon in 2004.. So it isn't like this is Lexus' first foray into luxury off-roader. Just that the 3rd gen GX is the first generation that has a specific trim dedicated to those overlander/off-roaders.

Great Review! What’s the suspension setup and shocks for this Overtrail, Jolt’n Joe!??

Might not have the driving dynamics as BMW, Range Rover but this will out outlast and still meets your expectations! Differently miss the reliable V-8! When I see built in Japan. I know Japanese take great pride in their work!

Best interior overview I found. I bought a 2023.5 Land Rover Defender 90 S last year and I hate it. I was thinking about getting the Lexus GX 550 Overtrail but I didn't know if I wanted to drive two hours to a dealership for it. I've found lots of performance reviews but I wanted this kind of interior detail. Thx!

Don’t want a panoramic roof with an off-road vehicle. The chassis and body flex and might create leaks!

Great job Lexus 👍👍. Looking forward to the hybrid version 🙂. Thanks Joe and Lori ! Is that Lori waving from the back seat ? 😂

31:52 - cleaning a car in that nanosecond was kind of impressive!

Not just better than a Defender this is better than everything in its class this is the new king of the hill.

I genuinely want to know Lexus' reasoning for why the rear wiper is visible and not tucked under the spoiler. Especially when you consider the fact that the wiper from the second generation of GX was hidden. It's very conflicting for something that's so simple. xD

You should do a separate review for the Lexus GX 550 Luxury + trim. That model addresses some of your complaints.

Worth the prices, even if it’s not better than the Defender in terms of off-road performance, it’s a better vehicle for reliability and resale value

What’s the length with the rear seats folded upward? Curious if there is enough length to sleep when camping!

As far as price and quality I'd say this is a great buy :) Always been a fan of Lexus and Genesis SUV designs because they look more premium. Good review my friend

Great looking vehicle!!! Defender for the image and overall quality.Lexus for reliability -made in Japan is the huge deal.Japan made car runs forever!!!Nice to see modern ,easy to drive vehicle with combustion engine in 2024.Love the way,thatToyota not pushing the electric vehicles .Thanks for vehicles like this.🥇

If you want to mount a rooftop tent you don't want a panoramic sun roof.

Yes , the answer is Yes

after watching Joe's video, I will order this exact one tonight...in my dream....!!!

Wow that is a beautiful looking vehicle.

Lexus green is the only paint I like in green.. good color

You probably could have driven a Toyota Previa on that trail. Overall that is a very compelling package however. Looking forward to when you do an on road review with a non Overland version.

Just one word Awesome wish i could afford it. This vehicle will be around long after the land rover quits

Joe - I'm happy to confirm (and maybe thanks to you) the gloss black that runs along the wipers is not gloss black on the Overtrail models any more. Is the same material as the fenders! It is gloss on Premium/Lux though..

Would love to see dial exhaust outlets

When it’s your turn to break-down, and another auto-journalist swoops YOU up, I’ll recognize your knees in the shot cuz you always rock shorts. Another fire vid. Beautiful truck. Just beautiful. How the whole thing comes together to meet those 2 squinted eyes in the front. It’s so perfect

Absolutely better than the Defender in many ways but in the water depths, the Defender will shine. Lexus should have made the Panoramic roof standard except for the Overtrail if you want to use the roof for storage. Great Review Joe as Always

Thank you for your reviews. I always, love love your reviews, GX has always been my fav (even with the older models) from the Lexus lineup. Have a great day.

It would be nice for the Overtrail+ to come with real leather (Saddle Tan), 3rd row seating option, 3-zone climate controls, and heated middle bench seating. That would make it perfect.

Im IN LOVE with the design of this vehicle 😳❤️

Wondering if those massage seats + upgraded sound system is worth it. As someone who would spend 8-16 hours rock climbing and camping, then having to drive back.... It might actually be worth the extra money...

The width is perfect, IMO. You can wheel it, take it on tight trails. It can pull a trailer with tent and dirtbikes. I just sat in one today. I hope everybody else goes to LandRover. Less demand when I go to pick up my GX Overtrail.

I saw you mentioned about how you don’t like the gloss black by the windscreen and it should be flat black instead the only thing is what I have learned is I prefer the gloss black because flat black plastic panels tend to not do very good in the sun about a year or two later from new. They get all faded and you have to try to keep them up by putting chemicals on them. I know the land cruiser has flat black plastic in that spot unlike the GX with the gloss black so if I got a land cruiser I would try to put the gloss black from the GX on it. If I could get that panel from parts department or some aftermarket place also I think it would look better if it was a white GX but that’s my opinion

Thx for the review. I think you’re the best car reviewer out here. You go hard you always have new videos up not like the other guys you deserve the credit I can always count on you l.

Hey Joe, the new Lincoln Nautilus is at dealerships now. Mine has a few in stock with many more on the way. Hopefully you can get to your dealership soon to review it and go on throttle!

Great video Joe 👍👍beautiful beautiful I want one beautiful nori green my favorite suv👍

I’ve been waiting for this for so long wondering to get this or the LX 600

GREAT JOB AS ALWAYS JOE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! MICHAEL K

I like the design, it makes me me excited to see how the redesigned 4runner will look like.

I was looking at the Defender, now this thing has caught my eye. What a nice looking vehicle!

I really like that green!

Nice inside out..I’d have the one with the Toyota logo

From quality, dependability, and in my opinion, the looks of the new GX 550 it blows away the Land Rover Defender. From a value perspective, it is a great value, considering the Defender (equally equipped) is over $100,000 the Lexus all the way! Great Review and can't wait to order mine!

One of my favourite colours as well

HUGE zonk on the fake vent under the headlight. Ruins the whole front end IMO. It would look so so SO much better if they got rid of that terrible styling and just made it just the bumper. Awful design choice.

i just don't get why you hate gloss black so much. its a luxury vehicle. base line model cars come with matte black.

Great job Joe, I like the design .

Joe you are the TRUTH in this car review game!! 💯🔥

You don't need a panoramic Teslaish sunroof when a branch fall onto your 70k dollars small apartment no?

Thank God for all the information you present. This is helping me to make sound decisions on purchasing this car which I look forward buying the GX at the end of 2024 to the beginning of 2025. Your the best.

SUNROOF IS OKAY, ENOUGH SIZE IT IS AN OFF-ROAD VEHICLE PANORAMIC NOT NECESSARY AND PRICE IS JUSTIFIED & REASONABLE IT IS MADE IN JAPAN ❤💙👍🇨🇦

What's the MPG?

Nice work, Joe and Lori; love the Lexus Overtrail, but NuLuxe pleather seats are a big ZONK!

The infotainment is 14 inches not 12.3. Great review by the way. I am excited for the new GX

I just want to say Doug Demoro came up for the review of this vehicle and I went to see if Raiti had done one and choose Raiti. Such a better way of reviewing see this channel grow so much and it keeps going 💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽

Idk I really want this, but at the same time I love my 4Runner TRD Pro in Lime Rush 😅. More luxury is nice for sure. Such a tough decision. Nice work as always Joe!

Great review . Heard a hybrid version is coming out soon for GX. Is it true Raiti you were a high school teacher? 😂

will trade in my rx350 for this gx in couple years.

Hey Joe, im 6 foot 5, will i have enough head room in this?

The Lexus isn't as serious an off-roader as the Defender. The Defender has better ground clearance and far better approach, departure and breakover angles. It can also wade in deeper water, has an available factory tow winch, an easily accessible spare tire, a more developed off-road traction management system along with a floor you can hose out and more practical storage on the dash. Additionally, you can option a three seat front row on the Defender and a cloth sunroof unlike the GX. The GX is capable, reliable and looks the part, but at the end of the day the Defender is a notch above. Also, good luck getting to your spare tire when you need it if your rear end is buried in sand or mud.

My concern is the engine load it with camping gear

This is the best look because of the lighting to make the true color pop.

Don't see many greens that dark. Neat color

Great review Joe. I'd say for the price, as you pointed out, there are a few key things missing. Still a great platform.

How well did the messaging seats work??

This is truly the updated version of my 1996 lx450

One thing for sure is Lexus much more reliability than Land Rover.

Great video joe, i really love this Lexus SUV 💪

I Think the Zonk for the panorama sunroof is a bit too harsh. This is an Over trail plus meant to be rugged and offroading. You do not want a BIG A** glass roof just an accident waiting to break

Beautiful ride. Great review.