Cargazing
By Derek Price

The 2025 Lexus TX succeeds in delivering what three-row luxury SUV buyers most value: space, comfort and peace of mind.

After a week behind the wheel of the new F SPORT Handling variant, it’s clear that Lexus has prioritized the fundamentals that matter most to families upgrading from mainstream brands.

The TX’s interior spaciousness rivals minivans in practicality while maintaining SUV aesthetics.

With 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row expanding to 97 cubic feet with seats folded, the cargo capacity accommodates everything from a weekend’s worth of groceries to what appears to be an entire IKEA showroom.

The logical layout includes thoughtful touches such as removable cupholders and a dual-opening center console that allows both driver and passenger independent access.

Lexus introduced the F SPORT Handling grade for 2025, featuring adaptive variable suspension, 22-inch matte black wheels and sportier styling elements.

The 2025 Lexus TX F SPORT Handling comes with 22-inch matte black wheels and sportier styling while maintaining the three-row SUV’s emphasis on comfort.

While these additions provided a more dynamic appearance on my tester, the TX’s greatest strength remains its trademark smoothness and refinement. The comfortable, quiet ride quality that defines the Lexus experience takes precedence over any sporting pretensions.

The turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produces 275 horsepower through an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering adequate performance for most situations.

However, the engine lacks the refined character of Lexus’ traditional naturally aspirated powertrains. Fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 26 on the highway is respectable but not exceptional for the segment.

Where the TX truly excels is in the details that matter during daily family use. The second-row captain’s chairs offer easy third-row access via slide-assist mechanisms. Seven USB ports and three power outlets ensure everyone stays connected.

The 14-inch touchscreen provides intuitive controls, while available features such as the Mark Levinson audio system and advanced safety suite demonstrate Lexus’ commitment to premium amenities.

The TX’s spacious cabin prioritizes practicality with captain’s chairs, multiple USB ports and logical storage solutions designed for busy families.

To me, the hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants represent better value propositions, offering improved fuel economy and the smoother power delivery that better suits the TX’s character.

The TX 500h hybrid provides 366 horsepower while the TX 550h+ plug-in delivers 404 horsepower with 33 miles of electric range.

Materials are appropriate for the price point, though the cabin may not feel quite as luxurious as some competitors. The exterior styling, while handsome, plays it safe rather than breaking new design ground.

For families seeking a three-row luxury SUV that prioritizes comfort, space and reliability over outright performance, the TX delivers on its core mission. It’s a vehicle that understands its audience and serves them well.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?

2025 Lexus TX 350 F SPORT Handling AWD ($64,410). Options: Convenience package ($895), Mark Levinson premium audio ($1,160), technology package ($1,280), cross bars ($420), rear hatch cargo lamps ($399), activity mount ($990), carpet cargo mat ($150), illuminated door sills ($809). Price as tested (including $1,350 destination charge): $71,863

BY THE NUMBERS

Wheelbase: 116.14 in.
Length: 203.15 in.
Width: 78.35 in.
Height: 70.08 in.
Engine: Turbocharged 2.4-liter four cylinder (275 hp, xxx lbs. ft.)
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
MPG: 20 city, 26 highway

RATINGS

Style: 8
Performance: 6
Price: 6
Handling: 6
Ride: 9
Comfort: 9
Quality: 10
Overall: 8

WHY BUY IT?

The TX excels at family duty thanks to generous three-row space, refined ride quality and Lexus’s reputation for dependability.