Mechanical Details Released on New TX

Lexus fans have long waited for a true 3-row crossover to compete with the Acura MDX or Audi Q7. With the first TX models almost at Lexus on Henderson’s doorstep, Lexus has released more information about this anticipated model. We will focus on the mechanical aspects in this article, particularly the TX model line’s choice of three powertrains. 

TX 350: 2.4-liter Turbocharged Inline-4

The TX 350’s 2.4L turbocharged inline-4 engine can presently be found powering the RX and NX models. As in the RX 350 and NX 350, it produces 275 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque and is connected to a close-ratio 8-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission. The TX 350 comes standard with front-wheel drive with available all-wheel drive (AWD) and is offered in Standard, Premium, and Luxury grades. EPA-estimated city/highway/comb MPG for the TX 350 is 21/27/23 for FWD models and 20/26/23 with AWD.

TX 500h: 2.4-liter Turbocharged Inline-4 hybrid 

This being a Lexus model, naturally, there is a hybrid model. Again, like the RX 500h, the TX combines the 2.4L turbocharged inline-4 with a two-motor parallel hybrid system for a total system power of 366 horsepower and 406 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. In addition to the front 64-kW motor, a rear-mounted 76-kW eAxle combination of inverter and motor provides near-instantaneous power and gives the TX 400h standard AWD. The TX 500h is available exclusively in F SPORT Performance Premium and F SPORT Performance Luxury grades. The fuel mileage advantage of the hybrid is highlighted in city driving as evidenced by an EPA-estimated city/highway/comb. MPG of 27/28/27.

TX 550h+: 3.5-liter V6 Plug-in Hybrid 

The TX 500h+ features the TX line’s flagship drivetrain, which combines a 3.5-liter V6 with the same motors found in the TX 500h for a total system output of 404 horsepower. The high-capacity lithium-ion battery is located under the cabin floor, which lowers the center of gravity for better handling. Lexus projects an estimated EV range rating of 33 miles, which will vary depending on your driving type. For those whose commute or daily driving routine falls under the EV range, the TX 500h+ could effectively be an EV through the week with no gas consumed. Yet when the family piles in for a long trip, it operates just as an efficient gas-powered model without needing to plan the trip around recharging. There is no need for a home charger either, as the TX 500h can be plugged into a standard household socket and fully charge overnight. If you do have a Level 2 charger or use a public charger, the TX500h+ will fully charge in about three hours. The TX 500h+ is available exclusively in the Luxury grade.

A Lexus-Tuned Chassis

The TX is built on a stretched version of the GA-K platform that also underpins the RX and NX models and thus has many of those models’ handling characteristics. The front MacPherson strut and rear five-arm multi-link suspension provide an ideal ride and handling combination with the expected Lexus levels of smoothness and quiet.

The F SPORT Performance grade features an Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), which enables increased handling limits while retaining a comfortable ride. The system uses linear solenoid-type actuators within each shock absorber to instantly adjust its operation based on driver style and road conditions. For example, on a rough road surface, it adapts, making the suspension more compliant to maintain a comfortable ride. When entering a curve at highway speed, the damping force increases for quicker response, enhanced responsiveness, and reduced body motion.

The rack assist-type Electric Power Steering (EPS) system utilizes a new motor and reduction gear setup installed parallel to the steering box to reduce the level of steering input, making the TX feel like a smaller, more agile vehicle.

To further the idea of making a large vehicle feel smaller, the F SPORT Performance grade’s Dynamic Rear Steering increases maneuverability in low-speed situations such as parking by having the rear wheels turn in an opposite direction to the front wheels for tighter turning. Conversely, on the highway, the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels for quicker and more stable lane and other direction changes.

You Select the Driving Experience

The driver can tailor their TX’s behavior by selecting from a mix of four or five drive modes:

• Normal: Delivers driving performance and fuel efficiency balance by optimizing the accelerator’s response.
• ECO: Maximizes fuel savings across all driving conditions by reducing throttle response and air conditioner operations to keep the engine speed in an efficient range.
• Sport: Increases the overall throttle responsiveness, resulting in sporty and responsive acceleration.
• Custom: Enables the driver to create a unique profile for the powertrain, chassis, and air conditioning functions. When equipped with AVS, the suspension settings also can be changed.
• Trail: (AWD only): Provides integrated AWD, braking, and drive force control to minimize wheel slippage when driving on wet or uneven road surfaces.

The TX drivetrain and chassis are based on decades of experience of what Lexus owners appreciate about their crossover vehicles. Of course, the TX mode line is more than just its mechanical setup. Stay tuned to this blog for additional information on the TX model line’s abundant features and amenities. You can expect the TX 350 and TX 500h to arrive soon at Lexus of Henderson. If you are interested, ask one of our sales professionals to contact you when they arrive. The TX 500h+ is expected to arrive in early 2024.