If you’re in the market for a premium, full-size SUV that offers a perfect blend of luxury and capability, the Lexus GX 550 and Toyota Sequoia are two compelling options to consider. Both SUVs are built on a truck-based platform, providing rugged performance and excellent towing capabilities.
However, they differ in terms of design, features, and driving experience. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive deep into the specifications and highlight the key differences to help you make an informed decision.
| Specification | Lexus GX 550 | Toyota Sequoia |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $59,000 | $51,000 |
| Engine | 4.6L V8 | 5.7L V8 |
| Horsepower | 301 hp | 381 hp |
| Torque | 329 lb-ft | 401 lb-ft |
| Towing Capacity | 6,500 lbs | 7,400 lbs |
| Drivetrain | Full-time 4WD | Available 4WD |
| Off-Road Systems | Multi-terrain Select, Crawl Control | Low-range gearing |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy) | 15/19 mpg | 13/17 mpg |
| Interior Quality | Highly luxurious, premium materials | Spacious but dated |
| Seating Capacity | 7 | 8 |
| Safety Rating (NHTSA) | 5-star | 4-star |
| Advanced Features | Mark Levinson Audio, Head-Up Display | N/A |
Verdict:
- Lexus GX 550: 9/10 (Excelling in luxury, refinement, and off-road capability)
- Toyota Sequoia: 8/10 (Offering impressive towing capacity, power, and spacious accommodations)
- Price: Lexus GX 550 is more expensive, starting around $59,000
- If you prioritize luxury, refinement, and off-road capability coupled with on-road comfort, the Lexus GX 550 is an excellent choice.
- If you’re looking for a more affordable option with impressive towing capacity and spacious accommodations, the Toyota Sequoia might be a better fit.
Pricing:
- Lexus GX 550: Starting MSRP around $59,000
- Toyota Sequoia: Starting MSRP around $51,000
Exterior Design:
The Lexus GX 550 and Toyota Sequoia share a similar boxy, rugged aesthetic, but the Lexus takes a more refined approach with its signature spindle grille and sleek LED lighting elements.
According to expert reviews, the Lexus GX 550 has a more upscale and modern exterior design compared to the Toyota Sequoia’s traditional and utilitarian styling.
Interior and Comfort:
Here’s where the Lexus GX 550 truly shines. Its cabin is a haven of luxury, with high-quality materials, premium leather upholstery, and attention to detail that you’d expect from a Lexus vehicle.
Owners consistently praise the Lexus GX 550’s interior for its luxurious feel and attention to detail, while some critics note that the Toyota Sequoia’s interior, although spacious, can feel a bit dated and lack the same level of refinement.
Lexus GX 550 Interior Highlights:
- Luxurious leather-trimmed seats
- Wood trim accents
- Intuitive infotainment system with a large display
- Spacious cabin with ample legroom and headroom
Toyota Sequoia Interior Highlights:
- Roomy and comfortable seating for up to 8 passengers
- Intuitive infotainment system
- Available second-row captain’s chairs
- Ample cargo space for hauling gear
Performance and Capability:
Lexus GX 550:
- Engine: 4.6-liter V8 engine
- Horsepower: 301 hp
- Torque: 329 lb-ft
- Towing Capacity: Up to 6,500 lbs
- Full-time 4WD with a lockable Torsen center differential
- Multi-terrain Select and Crawl Control for off-road prowess
Toyota Sequoia:
- Engine: 5.7-liter V8 engine
- Horsepower: 381 hp
- Torque: 401 lb-ft
- Towing Capacity: Up to 7,400 lbs
- Available 4WD system with low-range gearing
- Impressive off-road capabilities
While the Toyota Sequoia boasts more powerful engine specs, the Lexus GX 550 compensates with its sophisticated off-road systems and superior on-road refinement.
Reviewers note that the Lexus GX 550 strikes a better balance between off-road capability and on-road comfort.
Safety and Technology:
Both SUVs offer a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Automatic High Beams
- Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
However, the Lexus GX 550 takes it a step further with available features like:
- Mark Levinson Premium Audio System
- Head-Up Display
- Panoramic View Monitor
In terms of safety ratings, the Lexus GX 550 received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, while the Toyota Sequoia received a 4-star rating.
Fuel Economy:
- Lexus GX 550: 15 mpg city / 19 mpg highway
- Toyota Sequoia: 13 mpg city / 17 mpg highway
The Lexus GX 550 holds a slight advantage in terms of fuel efficiency, albeit both SUVs are thirsty due to their large displacement V8 engines.
Verdict
The Lexus GX 550 and Toyota Sequoia are both premium full-size SUVs with powerful V8 engines and impressive off-road capabilities.
However, the Lexus GX 550 stands out with its more luxurious and refined interior, better fuel economy, and advanced off-road systems like Multi-terrain Select and Crawl Control. On the other hand, the Toyota Sequoia offers a more spacious cabin, higher towing capacity, and a more powerful engine.
- Lexus GX 550: 9/10 (Excelling in luxury, refinement, and off-road capability)
- Toyota Sequoia: 8/10 (Offering impressive towing capacity, power, and spacious accommodations)
In conclusion, if you prioritize luxury, refinement, and off-road capability, the Lexus GX 550 is an excellent choice. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option with impressive towing capacity and spacious accommodations, the Toyota Sequoia might be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Also Read:
- 2024 Lexus GX vs 2024 Land Cruiser: Which Luxury Off-Roader is Right for You?
- The Subaru Outback – The Best SUV for Adventure Seekers
- Top 5 SUVs for Your Limo Service: Spacious and Luxurious
- The 5 Best Hybrid Compact SUVs to Buy in 2024
