In the luxury SUV game, everybody has their crosshairs set smack on Land Rover. The make might not be the biggest seller statistically, but it’s the all-purpose reference point for vehicles tough enough for off-road use, yet classy enough for luxury city use.
In other words, Land Rover is the status symbol for town and country. There are several challengers to that throne, however. One of the most successful is the 2014 Lexus GX. Starting around a surprisingly manageable $49,805, the GX offers a 4.6 liter, 301 horsepower V8, constant 4 wheel drive, independent and double-wishbone coil spring, front suspension, gas-pressurized shock absorbers, four-link coil springs rear suspension, 18 inch wheels and power-assisted brakes on all four wheels. Different drive settings set all of that up for off-road or street driving.
Even with that list of features, you might look at the price tag with a raised eyebrow until you consider that a Land Rover Range Rover Sport of similar size and capability starts north of $63,000.
Inside, the Lexus technology tradition takes over. The bright, clear central console video screen offers audio options, complete satellite navigation, engine status, fuel consumption numbers and other data. The Lexus ENFORM app suite comes standard, allowing drivers to make dinner reservations and contact emergency services.
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All passengers ride in style inside the GX, with its seven seat capacity. The front seats enjoy 10-way power adjustments, while the second and third row of rear seats are foldable to increase the SUV’s considerable cargo capability.
The driving experience is smooth and comfortable at all times — even along rougher stretches of road. The V8 engine provides more than adequate power, and Lexus should be commended for not selling out cheap and opting for a less efficient V6 engine.
I wouldn’t go so far as to say the Lexus NX is a full on match for a Land Rover. There’s still a level of sophistication the latter possesses that’s hard to capture. However, the overall feel of the NX is very close to that level — providing reassuring comfort, solid engineering and trend-setting technology for a good 10 grand less than its British rival.
