2024 LEXUS TX550H+ REVIEW AND OFF-ROAD TEST

EV Channels Review

The 2024 Lexus TX 550h+ is presented as a compelling three-row luxury SUV, bridging the gap between comfortable crossovers and rugged body-on-frame vehicles. The reviewer highlights its spacious interior, capable of seating up to seven passengers (or six in the tested configuration with captain's chairs) and offering substantial cargo space. The plug-in hybrid powertrain, with a combined 404 horsepower and an estimated 33 miles of all-electric range, is praised for its performance and flexibility, allowing for gas-free commuting for shorter distances. However, the reviewer expresses significant frustration with the infotainment system's interface, particularly the reliance on touch panels and buried menus for essential functions like drive modes and climate controls, contrasting it unfavorably with the more user-friendly physical buttons found in its Toyota Grand Highlander counterpart. Despite these ergonomic criticisms, the TX 550h+ demonstrates surprising off-road capability in a "Trail Mode" test, handling uneven terrain and obstacles with confidence, suggesting it can manage challenging access roads to remote locations. The reviewer ultimately deems it a capable and luxurious option for families seeking an alternative to minivans, though the Toyota Grand Highlander is suggested as a more practical choice due to its superior button layout.