Experienced by Kimatni D. Rawlins
The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ AWD redefines family luxury, setting a benchmark for pure, efficient, and upscale SUVs. During a recent trip to Los Angeles to visit friends, family, and associates, I scheduled this vehicle to navigate the city’s active pace. It’s quite the gem for busy schedules and numerous daily activities.
Finished in an eye-popping Matador Red Mica hue, the three-row utility stood out with contoured body lines, 22” alloy rims, a panorama glass roof, and auto-leveling bi-LED lights. The integrated, body-painted Darth Vader-like grille (dubbed Unified Spindle) also attracts attention. Some customers will love it, while others may pass on the aggressive Lexus tradition. I enjoy the design philosophy on the brand’s sports cars, but not necessarily its SUVs.
The extended TX is a true gravitational attraction. Everyone who entered my conversation zone loved the styling but instantly called it a family vehicle, which is accurate. Lexus targets Gen Y families with two or more kids with this refreshing utility vehicle. The TX is a longer version of the RX but doesn’t slope downward at the rear, improving third-row comfort. If you are young and not yet a parent, consider the Lexus NX, RX, or GX. I temporarily fit the narrative as I took my little cousins shopping; the second-row captain chairs became their highlight.
Built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana, every model is outfitted with a 14” multimedia touchscreen, Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (a suite of advanced driver assistance features), 5,000-lb towing capacity, up to seven USB-C charging ports, and at least 20″ wheels. Unlike many three-row SUVs, the TX provides ample cargo space for luggage and supplies. To access the third row, the middle seats lean and slide forward at the push of a latch.
While traveling around California, the 550h+ model’s 3.5-liter V6 plug-in hybrid, which produces 404 horsepower, became the hero. Typical trips took about an hour, whether from LAX to Westlake or Manhattan Beach to Long Beach. The TX delivered power and efficiency: 29 combined mpg on gas and 33 miles of electric range. DIRECT4 AWD isn’t essential in southern CA but is useful in Maryland, where I live. Steering, suspension, and power create a smooth, compliant ride.
Hop inside the cabin to discover intricate details and interior decorating that stimulate the senses. The14” Lexus Interface touchscreen display is your hub for Alexa, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, while the 12.3” multi-information display hovering over and behind the steering wheel acts as the co-pilot. Yet, I would like to see physical knobs for Drive Mode Select — normal, eco, sport, and custom modes — rather than integrated into the Lexus Interface menu. Tunes from the 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium surround sound system are pure and powerful, amplifying the melodious flow of Karol G up another level. Semi-aniline leather trim outlines the heated and ventilated seats and thematic ambient lighting curates your driving mood.
With Remote Connect, use the Lexus app to start the engine, unlock doors, schedule service, or receive health reports. Cloud Navigation and Google Points of Interest improve accuracy for destination and traffic information. The $2,380 Technology Package adds a Panoramic View Monitor, Advanced Park with Remote Park, a Digital Rearview Mirror, and Head-Up Display.
Seven trims are offered including Standard, Premium, Luxury, F SPORT Handling, F SPORT Performance Premium, and F SPORT Performance Luxury. MSRP, including the $1,450 delivery fee, starts at $57,090. My loaded TX 550h+ PHEV AWD cost $85,863—reflecting the price of luxury and technology.
