“It is roomy handles well I feel safe driving it and most importantly I feel safe when my grandchildren are in it”
2018 Lexus GX: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2018 Lexus GX is mostly a carryover, with its main updates limited to the Luxury trim. Premium audio and a semi-aniline leather second-row bench seat became standard there.
About the 2018 Lexus GX
2nd gen (2010-2023), late-cycle year after the 2014 styling update.
Lexus positions the GX as a rare kind of luxury SUV: a three-row vehicle with real off-road hardware and towing strength, but trimmed and finished like a premium family hauler. The brand repeatedly frames it as a work-to-weekend SUV that can move from city streets to rough trails without giving up comfort. What separates it from most luxury crossover rivals is its full-time 4WD system, low-range capability, and rugged underpinnings paired with a quieter, upscale cabin.
The GX 460 is the rugged, everyday version, pairing three-row seating with a V8, full-time four-wheel drive, low-range gearing for rough terrain, and a 6,500-pound towing rating. The GX 460 Luxury focuses more on comfort with finer leather, an adjustable suspension, a rear air suspension, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power-folding third row.
What changed, by category
Tech
Premium audio changed from optional to standard on the GX 460 Luxury.
Styling
A semi-aniline leather second-row bench seat became standard on the GX 460 Luxury.
2018 Lexus GX specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 4.6 Liter | V8, 4.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd w/Seq Shft | Auto, 6-Spd w/Seq Shft |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 15 mpg | 15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 18 mpg | 18 mpg |
| Horsepower | 301 hp | 301 hp |
| Torque | 329 lb-ft | 329 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 6500 lb | 6500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 64.7 cu-ft | 64.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 29.3 in | 29.3 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Driver Attention Assist Monitor | ||
| Front & Rear Parking Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Side View Cameras | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Third Row Seat | ||
| Tri-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2018 Lexus GX compared with the 2017 model?
The 2018 Lexus GX received two notable equipment changes on the Luxury trim: premium audio and a semi-aniline leather second-row bench seat became standard. The rest of the GX carried over without a broad redesign or major mechanical update.
Was the 2018 Lexus GX redesigned?
No, the 2018 Lexus GX was not redesigned. It remained part of the second generation introduced for 2010 and kept the basic design established by the 2014 styling update.
Did the 2018 Lexus GX get a new engine or four-wheel-drive system?
No, the 2018 Lexus GX kept its 4.6-liter V8, six-speed automatic transmission, and full-time four-wheel drive. It also retained low-range gearing for slower, more controlled driving on difficult terrain.
Which 2018 Lexus GX trim received the year's updates?
The GX 460 Luxury received the 2018 updates. Its premium audio and semi-aniline leather second-row bench seat became standard, while the core GX 460 had no notable year-over-year change.
Did the 2018 Lexus GX add a new standard safety suite?
No, the 2018 Lexus GX did not add a new standard safety suite across the lineup. Advanced driver-assistance features still depended on the trim or equipment package.
2018 Lexus GX Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Lexus GX.
4.2
2018 Lexus GX
(85 reviews)
“Fun to drive responsive great handling. Good mileage coupled with same. It is a diesel X drive.”
“Lexus GX 460 in my opinion is one of the best buys for a vehicle today. It is luxurious, quiet, durable, has great off-road capabilities, smooth and quiet on the highway. It also holds its value really well.”