It’s 2020 and I can’t believe I’m writing about another update to the Lexus GX. We tested the then-facelifted GX way back in 2014 and thought it was near the end of its rope. Boy, were we wrong. So here we are in 2020 and the GX is still around. In case you needed reminding, it’s still the loveable body-on-frame SUV that’s based on the 4Runner that it always was. So what’s new here?

To start, the 2020 update brings Lexus’ new corporate face and a new rear fascia. The latter is fairly subtle, but the former is noticeable. The spindle grille is worn with pride here, and it doesn’t look half bad. Our tester was optioned with the Sport Design Package, which adds a unique lower grille surround and front fascia. It also changes the rear valence and adds red taillamps in place of the clear units. Inside there is a new steering wheel gauge cluster and wood trim that allow for a better overall feel of luxury inside the GX. The old infotainment system is still present. That’s not a complaint however, as we still think it’s better than the mouse system that Lexus has employed recently. The red leather in our tester added to the luxuriousness that Lexus is going for here.

Beneath the new face, nothing has mechanically changed. If you were looking for well-proven drivetrain without any of that complicated forced induction, the Lexus GX460 is the SUV for you. The engine and transmission, as well as curb weight and fuel economy are all the same as the last time we got behind the wheel. That would be a 4.6L V8 making for 301hp and 329 lb-ft torque mated to a six-speed automatic. Geared to move it’s 5,179lbs curb weight, the GX460 is good for a combined 17mpg.

Is there anything else new to the GX beyond the minor cosmetic changes inside and out. One big change for 2020 is the addition of an optional Off-Road Package. This package adds a new surround view camera system, under-body cladding around the fuel tank, an upgraded transmission cooler, and Lexus’ terrain select system. The package also has a crawl control function which similar to the one we recently tested in a Toyota Tacoma. The most “off-roading” we saw was driving through a light dusting of snow. We did admire the 19″ dark gray wheels that are included in the Sport Design Package, however.

The 2020 GX460 is still a good choice for those who want the ultimate in luxury with full 4×4 capability on a budget. Unlike it’s bigger brother, the LX570, the GX makes due with slightly less luxury, a little older tech, and less street cred. But it certainly does leave more money in your pockets.

-Scott Villeneuve

Related: Living Fossil: Lexus GX460