Packing the Lexus TX for a Day at Lakeridge Mountain Resort

Planning a ski day at Lakeridge Mountain Resort means juggling gear, passengers, and the unpredictable winter roads between Ajax and the slopes. The 2026 Lexus TX handles this challenge with three rows of seating, thoughtful cargo configurations, and all-wheel-drive confidence—no compromises to comfort required.

From loading skis for the family to snowboards for a group outing, the TX's flexible interior adapts to your needs. Here's how to make the most of its space for your next trip to Lakeridge.

Cargo Capacity: Room for Gear and Passengers

The TX offers three distinct cargo zones depending on how many seats you're using. Behind the third row, you'll find 572 litres of space—enough for seven carry-on suitcases or a weekend's worth of ski gear for a smaller group.

Fold the power-operated third row flat, and capacity expands to 1,625 litres. This configuration suits most ski outings: helmets, boots, poles, and skis for four to five people fit comfortably without creative Tetris-style packing. The wide rear opening and low load floor make sliding equipment in and out straightforward, even when you're wearing bulky winter gloves.

Need maximum space? Drop both the second and third rows to unlock 2,747 litres. This setup accommodates larger items like snowboards, multiple sets of skis, or bulky winter camping gear if you're extending your trip beyond the resort.

Quick Cargo Reference:

• Behind third row: 572 litres 
• Behind second row: 1,625 litres 
• Maximum capacity: 2,747 litres 

Seating Configurations: Balancing People and Equipment

The TX comes in six- or seven-passenger layouts, and your choice affects how you'll pack for Lakeridge trips.

The seven-passenger model features a 60:40 split-folding second-row bench seat. This setup works well for families with younger children or groups that prioritize passenger count over individual comfort. You can fold one side of the bench to create a pass-through for longer items like skis while keeping two passengers seated.

Six-passenger models replace the bench with heated and ventilated captain's chairs and a centre console. The walk-through between the captain's seats simplifies third-row access—helpful when someone in the back needs to grab an extra layer or snack during the drive. The trade-off is slightly less flexibility for mixed cargo-and-passenger scenarios.

Both configurations include a slide-assist walk-in mechanism for the second row, making third-row entry manageable even when passengers are wearing winter boots.

Towing Capability: Bringing Extra Gear

The TX's 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) towing capacity opens options beyond the vehicle's interior. A small enclosed trailer can carry skis, snowboards, boots, and outerwear for an entire group, keeping the cabin free for passengers and personal items. This approach works particularly well for multi-family trips or when you're transporting rental equipment.

Models equipped with the optional Class IV towing receiver hitch include integrated trailer sway control and trailer brake controller functionality. These features improve stability on Highway 12 between Ajax and Brock Township—winter conditions along this route can shift quickly.

If you're towing regularly, the TX 500h F SPORT Performance models pair the hybrid powertrain's 409 lb-ft of torque with the same 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) rating, delivering stronger low-end pulling power for uphill sections near the resort.

Interior Storage: Small Essentials Within Reach

Long drives to Lakeridge mean snacks, phones, sunglasses, and lift passes need accessible homes. The TX addresses this with a dual-opening centre console that allows both driver and front passenger to access storage independently—useful when the passenger is navigating or managing music while the driver focuses on winter roads.

Second-row passengers benefit from seat-back pockets for maps, tablets, or extra gloves. The available centre console between captain's chairs adds cupholders and a storage bin for smaller items like hand warmers or energy bars.

A panoramic moonroof (standard across the lineup) adds natural light to the cabin during the drive, though most passengers will appreciate it more on the return trip when afternoon sun streams through.

Winter Driving Confidence: All-Wheel Drive and Drive Modes

The TX comes standard with electronically controlled full-time all-wheel drive across all gasoline models (TX 350). Hybrid models (TX 500h) use the DIRECT4 system, which actively adjusts front-to-rear power distribution based on wheel speed, acceleration, and steering angle.

Both systems work with the TX's Drive Mode Select, which includes a Trail mode designed for low-traction conditions. This setting adjusts throttle response and transmission shift points to reduce wheel spin on snow-covered resort parking lots or unplowed access roads.

The TX sits 201 millimetres (7.9 inches) off the ground—adequate for most winter driving scenarios around Lakeridge, though deep, unplowed snow may still require caution. The 17-degree approach angle and 22-degree departure angle help when navigating snow berms at parking lot entrances.

Comparing TX 350 and TX 500h for Ski Trips

TX 350 (Gasoline):

• 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine
• 275 horsepower, 317 lb-ft of torque
• Eight-speed automatic transmission
• Fuel economy: 10.3 L/100 km combined

TX 500h (Hybrid):

• 2.4-litre turbocharged engine with hybrid system
• 366 system horsepower, 409 lb-ft of torque
• Six-speed automatic transmission
• Fuel economy: 8.6 L/100 km combined
• DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system

The hybrid's improved fuel economy matters more on longer trips, though the 130-kilometre round trip from Ajax to Lakeridge won't show dramatic savings. The TX 500h's additional torque provides smoother acceleration when merging onto Highway 12 or climbing elevation changes near the resort, while the TX 350's lower starting price and simpler powertrain may suit occasional skiers better.

Technology for Winter Trips

The 14-inch Lexus Interface touchscreen includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, letting passengers stream music or podcasts during the drive. The system's natural language voice assistant handles navigation requests without requiring precise phrasing—helpful when wearing gloves makes touchscreen use awkward.

Available features on higher trims include:

• 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system (for those who take their road trip playlists seriously)
• Head-up display (keeps speed and navigation visible without looking down)
• Digital rear-view mirror (maintains visibility when cargo blocks the standard mirror)
• Heated steering wheel (standard across all trims)

The Panoramic View Monitor (available on Executive and F SPORT models) proves useful when backing into tight resort parking spaces surrounded by snow banks.

Practical Packing Tips for Lakeridge Trips

For day trips with the third row up:

• Place hard-shell boot bags and helmet bags in the cargo area
• Slide skis or snowboards diagonally if needed, using soft cases to protect interior surfaces
• Keep frequently accessed items (sunscreen, extra gloves) in second-row seat-back pockets

For trips with the third row folded:

• Stand skis upright along the sides of the cargo area to maximize floor space
• Use the available cargo net to secure loose items like goggles or snacks
• Place heavier items (boots, wet gear) toward the rear to maintain weight distribution

For maximum cargo mode:

• Transport large groups' equipment by folding all rear seats
• Consider roof-mounted ski carriers if you need to preserve interior space for passengers
• Use the available cargo area mat and tonneau cover to protect surfaces from wet gear

Your Next Lakeridge Trip Starts at Lexus of Lakeridge

The 2026 Lexus TX balances passenger comfort with cargo versatility, making it a practical choice for families and groups heading to Lakeridge Mountain Resort. The TX's flexible configurations adapt to your winter recreation needs, from seating for seven to maximum cargo space for equipment.

Visit Lexus of Lakeridge in Ajax to explore the TX lineup and discuss which configuration best suits your ski season plans. Our team can walk you through cargo configurations, demonstrate the power-folding third row, and answer questions about towing capacity or winter driving features.