Powertrain & Performance
- GX 550 Overtrail (2024/25) is powered by a twin‑turbo 3.4 L V6 producing 349 hp and 479 lb‑ft torque, mated to a 10‑speed automatic
- 4Runner TRD Pro (2025) uses the hybrid i‑Force Max system: a 2.4 L turbocharged four-cylinder + electric motor, delivering 326 hp and 465 lb‑ft
In drag strip testing:
- GX: 0‑60 mph in 7.7 s, quarter‑mile in 15.5 s at 89.8 mph
- 4Runner: 0‑60 mph in 8.5 s, quarter‑mile in 16.4 s at 82.6 mph
The GX pulls ahead in straight‑line acceleration.
Off‑Road Capability & Ride
Lexus GX 550 Overtrail
- Equipped with e‑KDSS (Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System), locking center & rear diffs, Multi‑Terrain Select, Crawl Control, Downhill Assist, skid plates, and 33″ A/T tires on 18″ wheels
- Offers ground clearance of 8.9–9.9 inches, approach angle ~26–27°, departure ~22°, breakover ~24°, wading depth around 27–28″
- Performs exceptionally across varied terrain: rocky canyons, mud, sand, deep ruts—maintaining traction and composure thanks to Crawl Control and active diffs
Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
- The test at Hungry Valley showed the 4Runner excels at high‑speed desert runs due to its Fox shocks and better damping at speed. However, at slower speeds, the ride is harsher than the GX
- Also features disconnecting front stabilizer bar allowing extra articulation, boosting off‑camber ability—particularly important when climbing or crawling
Comfort & Refinement
| Feature | Lexus GX Overtrail | 4Runner TRD Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Interior quality | Luxurious, premium materials, quieter cabin | Rugged, functional but sparse |
| NVH (noise/vibration) | Significantly quieter, insulated, smooth | Noticeably louder with cabin noise |
| Ride comfort | More civilized at low speeds; “floaty” ride typical of body‑on‑frame chassis | Rougher at low speeds; excels at high‑speed desert |
| Off‑road behavior | Confident and smooth at low speed over technical terrain | Optimized for fast desert traverses |
Fuel Economy & Price
- Price: GX Overtrail around $72K–75K, 4Runner TRD Pro about $71K, making them very close in value
- Fuel economy: Both ended up averaging ~17.8 mpg observed over mixed driving—despite the 4Runner’s hybrid setup
Verdict
- Overall, the Lexus GX 550 Overtrail is the more versatile choice: better acceleration, luxurious refinement, and superb low‑speed off‑road capability under varied terrain.
- The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro wins in high‑speed desert environments—its damping setup and articulation make it the stronger performer in long dusty runs or open sandy trails.
- Your decision should hinge on use case:
- Choose GX if you value comfort, luxury, and controlled trail performance or technical terrain at low speed.
- Choose 4Runner if your off-roading leans toward fast desert driving and articulation-first scenarios, and you can compromise on comfort.
Owner Insights
From forums, multiple Overtrail owners describe the ride as stiff and “floaty” compared to the tighter, sprinty feel of the 4Runner’s chassis—but still praise the GX’s quietness, comfort, and refinement:
Summary
- GX 550 Overtrail: Stronger powertrain, plush cabin, confident trail traction, luxurious daily drive.
- 4Runner TRD Pro: Better suited to aggressive high‑speed off‑road – particularly desert or washboard trails, lighter damping, sharper articulation.