2024 Lexus TX | Talking Cars with Consumer Reports

Lexus has expanded its SUV line with the all-new TX, a three-row model that shares its dimensions and many mechanical bits with the new Toyota Grand Highlander. On this episode we share our initial impressions of the 2024 Lexus TX and discuss its driving characteristics, luxurious interior, controls, and three different powertrains offered by Lexus, including a V6 plug-in hybrid. We give advice on what to do when a car lease comes to an end: buy the car out; trade it in for a new model; or walk away. Also, we answer if PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles) are cheaper or more expensive to operate and maintain than the all-electric and internal combustion engine vehicles.
More info on the 2024 Lexus TX here: www.consumerreports.org/cars/...
Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: www.consumerreports.org/cars/...
SHOW NOTES
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00:00 - Introduction
00:16 - First Impressions: 2024 Lexus TX
02:06 - 3 Powertrain Options
04:32 - Plug-in Hybrid Version
06:03 - 4-Cylinder Engine Performance
08:47 - Ride and Handling
11:14 - Dynamic Steering
12:23 - 3rd-Row Seats
13:34 - 2nd-Row Seats
14:07 - Cargo and Space
15:51 - Controls, Fit and Finish
18:36 - Safety Systems
20:13 - Lexus TX vs. Toyota Grand Highlander
22:49 - Electronic Door Release
24:19 - Question #1: What to do at the end of a vehicle lease: buy the car out; trade it in; or walk away?
28:16 - Question #2: Are PHEVs more expensive to operate and maintain than all-electric and internal combustion vehicles?
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First Drive: All-New 2024 Lexus TX Delivers Modern Luxury for the Whole Family
www.consumerreports.org/cars/...
2024 Lexus TX
www.consumerreports.org/cars/...
First Drive: 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Shines Brightest With Hybrid Max Engine
www.consumerreports.org/cars/...
10 Best Luxury SUVs You Can Buy Right Now
www.consumerreports.org/searc...
Popular Midsized SUVs to Avoid and What to Buy Instead
www.consumerreports.org/cars/...
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[@Mark-de4hj]

Consumer Reports is my favorite forum for reviews (cars and products), so really enjoy your take on this vehicle. In regards to door latches, I Recently had the Lexus RZ for a couple days and the door handles were very responsive. The first few tries I did fumble a bit but then it became very natural to push on a lever while pushing the door as opposed to pulling and pushing simultaneously in traditional handles.

[@scottvickery2057]

Amen on the backup camera! Every time I get in my old F250 I stare at the radio for a few seconds waiting for the video! lol

[@Pinkorchid72]

Haha! I do that when I have to take my mom’s Honda odyssey out when my van is getting an oil change and tune up. So funny!

[@dragorocky]

Sad. Do you also look for a camera before you backstep? Jk. I’m just too broke to understand y’all’s plight. But i get it

[@davewilson7602]

@@dragorockythe problem is since backup cameras became mandated, newer cars have worse visibility in the back so you sometimes can’t see out of the back well without one.

[@seikocitizenwatches]

I don’t care about what other car builders have, I only care about what Toyota and Lexus have. First time reading Consumers Report noticed Toyota reliability scores were the best and have been consistently the best in all subsequent years matched with my experience owning Toyota and Lexus vehicles. They are so reliable, high quality and low cost of maintenance just like C&R gas always said. 84 Camry, 1985 Supra, 2000 Highlander, 2005 Sienna, 2005 Sienna Hybrid are all great vehicles that no other can Evn come close in terms of quality, reliability, spare parts logistics, dealers network and resale value.

[@nelsonv741]

Always a great show! I always look forward to it.

[@bmohre4784]

Great show. Thanks for all the usable info.

[@anthonym4541]

23:35 the door handle is a button because it can sense oncoming traffic that might pose a safety risk if you open it when a car is coming. If you push the button to open the door and it senses a car it will not allow you to open it up all the way. If you pull the handle out it overrides that feature.

[@dragorocky]

I can’t believe I watched this whole sh-t. Y’all are good.

[@Carlostheaggie]

Great job reviewing and considering the different drivetrains of the TX. Why wouldn’t you do that with the more affordable (and bigger seller) Grand Highlander? We bought the Hybrid Max GH and can’t relate to much of your criticism over the base car you’ve chosen to purchase and publish your review on.

[@user-vo4oo3jd8o]

The TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid seems to me like the perfect luxury family hauler for those who need a larger vehicle and don't feel right about buying a gas guzzler for environmental reasons. The fact that the US version isn't available with a pano roof seems like a huge miss to me. I couldn't imagine buying a luxury SUV in 2024 for close to $100,000 and having the interior feel like a base model with a fabric headliner. Hopefully Lexus offers the TX 550h+ with an option for a pano roof when it becomes available in Canada.

[@0HOON0]

The TX 550h+ is still available with a buttery smooth N/A V6. Good luck finding one though. Every dealer in my area has a row of TXs but not a single plug in.

[@paulneil7321]

It is not yet released. 550h+ is till coming soon.

[@markplott4820]

Hybrids are very CRAPPY ICE vehicle w/ Butt plug size Battery.

[@toronado455]

I don't think it's even out yet.

[@victreebel170]

​@@markplott4820Why are you even here if you're that stupid?

[@microbiologycory10]

@@markplott4820how many years have YOU owned/driven one? I’m at 16 yrs and I disagree…it’s the ONLY thing that will ease any potential transition to EV.

[@derrickaf1]

Great and thorough review of the 2024 Lexus TX:)! Thank you…

[@Pigletsyes]

I like this trio probably the best

[@imnh1]

3 kids plus the gear we take along as well as other kids and family members made this look appealing...until I found out it actually is a 7 or 6 seater, with the 6 seats being the only option on the PHEV. I would have been fine with a Grand Highlander PHEV, but it is not available as a PHEV.

[@susansammy5448]

Looks stylish, and has lots of room and storage, but why does this brand new model only get an Acceptable Safety rating from IIHS? Yet it's a highly recommended family hauler????

[@toronado455]

Surprised CR doesn't mention that the 550h+ has a V6 in the video (although it is in the text video description). That makes it a one of a kind powertrain from Toyota/Lexus and has the potential to be the best of the three in the TX.

[@cbotten106]

They are focusing on the vehicles that they have purchased for testing. The 550h+ is late to the party (delayed release).

[@user-ss3ho2bb6e]

I wonder why they don't address internal road noise - which to some people may be big deal. I've seven some reviews that suggest the Lexus actually has an internal noise cancelling system.

[@craigmerkey8518]

I love Jen as the host!

[@TealSide]

Why haven't we had Mike Quincy, Mike Crossen and Mike Monticello on the same talking cars episode?

[@orrief3806]

two words: Mike fright.

[@MechayaAlta]

If I had three kids, I would be cross shopping this car to a Sienna minivan.

[@hereigoagain5050]

Go with the Sienna unless you would need to tow or go off-road. But I am a minivan fan.

[@banstaman]

@@hereigoagain5050 A Sienna Prime would be ideal although I think that would make it too expensive for a minivan.

[@Justacogg]

The demise of the V6 is because of the laws of diminishing returns with emissions. At 150,000 miles would you rather own the V6 or a turbo four banger?

[@microbiologycory10]

Toyota is running these turbos at around half the boost of BMW…should be fine.

[@polo3433]

Your data suggests that plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) are not as reliable as traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. However, you mentioned that Toyota/Lexus PHEVs will be reliable. Given Toyota's leading market share in PHEVs, I find it hard to believe that PHEVs from every other manufacturer, except Toyota, have issues. While I acknowledge Toyota's overall reliability, I also believe that, like any other automaker, they face challenges, especially with PHEVs.

[@donswier]

Could be Wrangler 4xe and Pacifica PHEV (both popular) are skewing the stats

[@cbotten106]

Toyota hybrids tend to be as, or more reliable, than the non-hybrid on which they are based. Hybrid only vehicles like the Prius tend to be top of the industry reliability vehicles. Other companies hybrids tend to have more problems then non-hybridized versions. We've got more than a decade of data that backs this up. Toyota really hasn't made many plug ins though...yet.

[@RobTeeJr]

Good show. While this car is not the type of vehicle I would own, I do appreciate CRs choice of music. First time I've seen John McLaughlin on test car's screen.

[@joreldavis4069]

If you need an explanation on how to use a handle...Lexus isn't marketing to you.

[@ddavister]

You wondered of this Lexus was called the TX because Toyota's headquarters is in Texas. Just the other day I asked Google for the price of a Lexus TX and it literally called it the "Lexus Texas" when it responded. I had to laugh because it's a great rhyme too.

[@rf_v6]

i saw one, honestly i went to my local dealership to check on it and i thought it was a minivan. turn around and tell myself that im not gonna spend my money on a minivan🤭

[@nimarine31500]

Suspension tuning is significantly different. Much quieter interior in the TX and better handling.

[@jjakkad]

Rav 4 Prime is reliable??? Guys please. They have major recalls where they strictly tell you to not charge due to fire risk till serviced by Toyota, so owners have to use it as a normal hybrid in winter.

[@kaseyc5078]

It’s still reliable.

[@markplott4820]

TESLA model Y is OUTSELLING Rav4 & CR-V.

[@Mark-de4hj]

@@markplott4820 If you feel the need to compare a Tesla model Y to a Rav4 you probably don't know much lol

[@KNRS927]

Great Lexus TX review. The TX550h+ comes with a smooth V6 if you desire that. Only thing is you'd have to order that since most dealers don't keep that in stock. Also, those are about 80-85k, which is way too much money for a Lexus in my eyes, or frankly any car in general.

[@toronado455]

Is the 550h+ even in production yet?

[@Lucky-ii3ft]

I would prefer a Lexus made in Japan than the US. Japan factory has a higher quality control than the US.

[@victreebel170]

There's absolutely no difference in build quality. You think Toyota doesn't have the same level of control in their American factories? Their management style is relentless.

[@chili-rye123]

@@victreebel170I’m sure Toyota’s US factories are great, but Japanese workers in Japanese factories are even better.

[@IamGroot786]

Yeah, about that... In my humble opinion, backup cameras and some of these other systems are creating lousy drivers. Most have the attitude now of "Well, I don't have to learn how to do that or this...".

[@victreebel170]

That's a tired old attitude. People said the same thing about power brakes. People are driving worse because they're looking at their phones, end of story.

[@trumpisastump9382]

Yea, and get off my lawn!!!

[@canadianpsychologist]

Gabe still gets phone calls?! 😅

[@afzalshaikh2128]

4 cylinders and premium gas are two of the biggest red flags for this new Model

[@dpporlando]

The advice to Grant to even consider a lease buyout of a Wrangler 4xe is negligent malpractice at best. Dealers can't give new 2023s away they start at 15% off and include special financing. No thanks don't walk....Run away from that lease. So many better options and deals now. Also, regarding the age old Lexus VS Toyota debate you never mention Lexus has a far superior warranty, better resale, better overall service experience, potential of Lexus loyalty added discount.....

[@blurglide]

I guess we have to call it the Lexus Texas.

[@LionRunner]

Maybe Toyota Lexus know that they have no option from EPA $%!^ have to stop building reliable n/a engines, people like myself who owned Toyota / Lexus for generations now don't have a reason to buy with all this turbo $%!^. If reliability is out of my purchase decision I will lease a German/Euro. Just use it for 3years and return it for a new vehicle after 3 years. Even if I have to have 3 Land rovers like TFL did in a short period of time with poor reliability its still nothing out of my pocket. For now I will enjoy my extremely reliable, well build Made in Japan Toyotas in my household.

[@Nick-jq5nl]

It's a shame, imho, that Lexus has decided to lean into the electronic nanny tech systems in their current generation. Firstly, that's a niche which Volvo is already pretty strong in (and arguably ahead in other higher-end features), and second, it's questionable in my mind how much people paying for higher-end luxury models will want a vehicle which continuously nags them. As someone in that market, if I'm going to pay extra for comfort while driving, the last thing I want is a vehicle nagging or annoying me, and that could be a pretty significant product design blunder if enough other potential buyers feel the same way I do.

[@trumpisastump9382]

Your post is a waste. You did not identify the "...nanny tech..." that you despise and why.

[@acousticmikeb8119]

She’s enjoyable, but can the woman talk if she can’t move her arms? Did she used to be an orchestra conductor? Good discussion anyway, just an observation.

[@Slimecrazy234]

What is the point of putting in a 2.4L 4 cyl in a vehicle of this size if you're only going to get 23mpg, put in a V6 and you lose 2mpg and it's way better.

[@justincook54]

No one cares what you want sadly. It's what NHTSA wants.

[@PaulHo]

See Gabe, skip.

[@IamGroot786]

Look at Jen's hair... She looks so cute!

[@user-fp9rv2bn6f]

Wow, people at CR has aged a lot, especially Gabe Shenhar. I have not watched CR podcasts for a year or two and when I saw Gabe, I thought that was a different person.

[@tbone9405]

Not. A CVT! EVT!

[@LaTacheGrandCru]

Guy sounds like he's gonna fall asleep in the middle of his talk

[@chili-rye123]

“More than 2 kids”…I know CR is in a upper middle class suburban family world, but there are exceedingly few families in the US with more than 2 kids, or even more than 1 kid. The vast majority of people will never need a car this big. The RX is all people need for most driving trips in their lives.

[@ronedwards8239]

Here is where you guys miss the mark. If you are tall forget about a Lexus, they think the tallest person is 5’ 8”. I’m 6’ 2”. My head hit the top of the car because of their ancient designed moonroofs.

[@cbotten106]

The 550h+ doesn't have a moonroof. Your problem has been solved.

[@markplott4820]

CR -TESLA Cyber SUV is coming in 2026, watch for it. 3 rows 8 seats in #1 st Class Lux seating, Class leading cargo & storage. SAFEST SUV on Earth.

[@billyrock8305]

😣 😣

[@dragorocky]

Toyota GH actually has some beefy lines on it. This Lexus version is a damn minivan. W/o easy-access sliding door. Boooooo! 👎

[@acousticmikeb8119]

How come no one is talking about incredibly boring and dull exterior and in-luxury looking interior?

[@TalismanPHX]

The TX is still a gussied up Grandé Highlander with a garish Lexus grille.... not impressed.

[@kailua808]

saw two of these today. the wife wanted one (we have a 22 GX). looks identical to a highlander and honestly looks like a minivan. nahhhhhh 😂

[@georgeidarraga4006]

It’s fugly.

[@Sashazur]

The grille on this certainly won’t win any beauty contests, but at least it looks better than any other recent Lexus or Toyota grilles!

[@sector7offshore]

Boring

[@rolan2dr]

Lexus Texas 🤮

[@firstlast1732]

This guys voice is annoying very slow and boring

[@trumpisastump9382]

Your response was very boring.

[@DJL78]

The trio of hosts most likely to make children cry and puppies bark. Chronic cough of interruption: Stockburger. Dude you don’t want to sit next to on a flight: Quincy King of the long suffering “aaaaaaaah”: Shenhar. This is what hell sounds and looks like.

[@linhunnicutt6556]

OMG, you had me laughing out loud with this comment!

[@michaelschneider-]

Having a bad day are you? .. Then change the channel... For me "The CR staff knows their stuff"

[@DJL78]

@@michaelschneider-70 year old says buy that microwave! Kenmore is a GOOD BRAND!