2024 Lexus TX 550h+ Review: Is it the Best Luxury Hybrid SUV?

OK, y’all, we need to chat about Lexus’s new shot at the three-row SUV segment: the 2024 Lexus TX 550h+. If you’ve been patiently waiting for a plush family hauler that doesn’t drink gas like a frat boy at the keg party, this hybrid should be just what you’ve been wanting. And with its sexy exterior design, ultra-modern cabin and eco-friendly powertrain, Lexus is entering a very crowded arena. Let’s see if it’s the ultimate luxury hybrid SUV you can buy.

What’s the Lexus TX Lineup?

Before we go ahead and focus in on the 550h+ specifically, here’s a quick lap around the TX family. Lexus offers three trims:

• TX 350: The base gas-only model this one gets a turbocharged 2.4L four-cylinder engine (275 hp). Think of it as the entry-level luxury you’d take home to meet the parents
• TX 500h:  Hybrid power consisting of 2.4L turbocharged engine with an electric motor (366 hp). This one’s for drivers who like a little more punch without compunction at the pump
• TX 550h+: The top-dog plug-in. It pairs a 3.5L V6 with an electric motor, resulting in 406 hp and 33 miles of electric range. Yeah, it’s fancy

The Lowdown on TX 550h+ Specs & Features

So, what sets the TX 550h+ apart?

• Engine: 3.5L V6 plug-in hybrid
• Horsepower: 406 hp
• Torque: 442 lb-ft
• Drivetrain: All-wheel drive (AWD)
• Electric Range: 33 miles
• Fuel Economy: Estimated 30+ mpg combined (gas + electric)
• Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
• Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs

The TX 550h+ is intended for users who optimize for the perfect mix of performance and versatility. For cruising down the freeway or toting the kids to soccer practice, it’s looking as if it’s going to be smooth sailing, with a heaping helping of luxury.

On the Road: Smooth Operator

Even with over 400 horses on tap, it feels like you’re floating along on a cloud when behind the wheel of the TX 550h+. The plug-in hybrid’s system provides immediate torque, ensuring surprising pickup for a three-row SUV. Is the traffic you need to get on the freeway? No problemo. Overtaking a turtle in the passing lane? Done and done.

The suspension is calibrated for comfort, gobbling up potholes and road irregularities. The steering is light, which won’t endear the car to purist drivers but is ideal for daily driving. The thing is so whisper-silent because of that hybrid powertrain.

Interior: Lexus Levels of Luxury

Inside, the TX 550h+ is all about pampering you and six of your most favorite people. Standard features include:

• 14-inch Touchscreen: With wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Mark Levinson Sound System:  Because even your road trip playlists need to sound good
• Premium Leather Upholstery:  Luxury Leather Seating: Soft, supple, and smells like success
• Panoramic Moonroof:  Let in the sunshine or stargaze

And the third row is not just for children; adults can sit back there without requiring a chiropractor afterward. Lexus got the space and comfort equation right here, and this is a proper three-row SUV, not a two-and-a-half-row poser.

The Pros & Cons

Lexus TX 550h+ Pros:

• Hybrid Efficiency: Stay on the move while being environmentally considerate
• Spacious Interior: Ample space for passengers and cargo
• Refined Ride: Smooth, quiet, and luxurious ride
• Towing Capability: Perfect for pulling your boat or camper
• High-Tech Features: It’s fully loaded, from safety tech to infotainment

Lexus TX 550h+ Cons:

• Pricey: Starting north of 70 big ones, it’s not all that budget-friendly.
• Not Sporty: Loose steering and comfort-first suspension tuning may not excite enthusiasts
• Limited EV Range: 33 miles is acceptable for running to the store, but hardly a game-changer

The TX Competitors

The Lexus TX 550h+ is not entering a void. Here are a few competitors to keep in mind:

1. Volvo XC90 Recharge

• Engine: 2.0L turbocharged and supercharged hybrid (455 horsepower)
• Electric Range: 36 miles
• Why It’s Great: Scandinavian design, top-of-the-line safety features, and slightly better EV range
• Why It Falls Short:  More expensive than the Lexus, but not as big

2. BMW X7 xDrive40i

• Engine: 3.0L turbocharged inline-six mild hybrid (375 horsepower)
• Towing Capacity: 7,500 lbs
• Why It’s Great:  Plush interior and a sportier drive.
• Why It Falls Short: Gas-only powertrain and less efficient.

3. Audi Q7 55 TFSI e

• Engine: 2.0L turbocharged hybrid (362 horsepower)
• Electric Range: 21 miles
• Why It’s Great: Sharp styling with a sporty demeanor
• Why It Falls Short: Less electric range, not as powerful

4. Acura MDX Type S

• Engine: 3.0L turbocharged V6 (355 horsepower)
• Why It’s Great: Performance-first and a bit less expensive
• Why It Falls Short: No hybrid available and so naturally less efficient.

Is the 2024 Lexus TX 550h+ the Best Luxury Hybrid SUV?

If you’re shopping for a luxurious, family-friendly SUV that doesn’t sacrifice efficiency for comfort, the Lexus TX 550h+ is a strong contender.  It isn’t cheap, but you get Lexus-level reliability, premium amenities and enough hybrid tech to ease whatever conscience you have left about your carbon footprint.

With that said, it’s not a sporty ride, and the price might have you reconsidering pulling the trigger on one. But if you can pony up for something that’s as posh as it is practical, this Lexus is worthy of a test drive.

Now, Over to You…

What do you think? The new 2024 Lexus TX 550h+ Is it one step in the right direction, or are you probably going in the opposite way, on something else? Leave us your thoughts in the comments as we read (and perhaps spark a friendly argument).