What is the ground clearance of a Lexus GX?
The ground clearance of the Lexus GX is 8.1 inches (206 millimeters) on current models. This figure reflects the vehicle’s balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability.
In this article, we examine what ground clearance means for the GX, how it affects everyday driving and off-road performance, and how the specification fits into the broader class of midsize luxury SUVs.
Ground clearance in detail
Important measurements and context help buyers understand why that 8.1-inch figure matters in real-world use. The GX’s 8.1 inches is the official ride-height clearance listed by Lexus for the current generation, and it has been stable across updates, ensuring consistent capability across trims.
Key specification at a glance
- Ground clearance: 8.1 inches (206 millimeters) at standard ride height.
- Applicable to most recent GX models across trims.
- Measured with the vehicle at its factory ride height as listed by Lexus.
Taken together, the 8.1 inches of ground clearance marks a practical balance for a luxury SUV aimed at both on-road refinement and light off-road use.
What it means for drivers
For urban drivers, the 8.1-inch clearance helps reduce the risk of underbody scrapes when approaching driveways or traversing uneven pavement, while still delivering a comfortable ride. For weekend explorers, the figure supports modest off-road tasks and rougher roads without compromising highway stability.
Summary
The Lexus GX stays true to its dual mandate of comfort and capability with a ground clearance of 8.1 inches (206 mm) on its current form. This specification is a key reference point for buyers weighing the GX against rivals in the midsize luxury SUV segment and signals Lexus’s emphasis on versatile performance across daily driving and light off-road use.
Is the GX 550 bigger than a 4Runner?
How big is the Lexus GX 550 compared to the Toyota 4Runner? The Lexus GX 550 is undoubtedly the larger vehicle compared to the Toyota 4Runner, boasting a 197-inch length vs. the 194.9-inch length of the Toyota SUV and offering additional width and height across trim levels.
What year to avoid Lexus GX 460?
The main Lexus GX 460 years to avoid are 2010–2013 due to potential issues like engine oil leaks (valley plate leak), as well as the 2010 model specifically, which had a temporary sales suspension after a rollover risk was identified during sharp turns. Later models, especially 2016 and 2017, may be more prone to oil leaks as well, though not as critically as the earlier years.
Years to be cautious about
- 2010–2013: These early models are more frequently cited for potential problems, such as the valley plate coolant leak, which can be expensive to repair.
- 2016 and 2017: These years have been noted by some owners as having a higher likelihood of oil leaks.
Model years generally considered more reliable
- 2014 and later: These models reportedly have a different, less leak-prone head gasket.
- 2021 and 2022: These years are specifically highlighted as being very reliable.
Other potential issues to consider with any model year
- Secondary Air Injection System: Problems with this system can be costly to repair.
- Suspension: Models with the optional AHC (Adjustable Height Control) or KDSS (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System) can experience issues, though Lexus has issued a TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) to address a leaning issue in some earlier KDSS vehicles.
- Rust: In areas where roads are salted, rust can be a concern, especially on models driven in the North.
- Maintenance: Regular and consistent fluid changes, especially transmission fluid, are crucial to the longevity of the vehicle.
Which SUV has the highest ground clearance?
The SUV with the highest ground clearance is the Rivian R1S, which can reach up to 14.914.914.9 inches with its adaptive air suspension. Other SUVs with very high ground clearance include the Ford Bronco Raptor at 13.113.113.1 inches and the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon X with the Xtreme Recon package at 12.912.912.9 inches.
| SUV | Maximum Ground Clearance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rivian R1S | 14.914.914.9 inches | Features an adaptive air suspension that can raise the vehicle significantly. |
| Ford Bronco Raptor | 13.113.113.1 inches | Achieves this height with features like the HOSS 4.0 package and 37-inch tires. |
| Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon X | 12.912.912.9 inches | This is with the optional Xtreme 35 tire package. |
| Land Rover Discovery | 11.111.111.1 inches | Offers a 11.0-inch clearance in some configurations, with the Discovery having up to 11.111.111.1 inches. |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk/Summit Reserve | 11.111.111.1 inches (or $276$mm) | With its air suspension in the highest off-road setting. |
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What is the ground clearance of the 2025 GX 550 Overtrail?
The 2025 GX 550 Overtrail has 9.84 inches of ground clearance, a 1-inch increase over the previous model year. This improvement is due to a standard 1-inch suspension lift on the Overtrail and Overtrail+ trims, making it more capable off-road.
- Standard suspension lift: A 1-inch suspension lift is now standard on the Overtrail and Overtrail+ models for 2025.
- Increased capability: The extra ground clearance provides better off-road performance and is a significant upgrade from the 2024 model.
- Official figures: Lexus officially states the 2025 GX Overtrail models have 9.84 inches of ground clearance.
