All-New Lexus GX Unveiled With Bullish Intentions

All-New Lexus GX Unveiled With Bullish Intentions

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The Lexus GX is a new addition to the Japanese brand's luxury SUV lineup, filling the gap between the flagship RX and LX models that grace our local shores.

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But we can only gaze at its splendour from a distance since there are no immediate plans to introduce it to Mzansi. It has all the allure that South Africans desire in an SUV, with a robust and rugged appearance that displays the proportions of an authentic off-roader.

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It lives a double life as the Toyota Land Cruiser it shares its GA-F global architecture platform with, and Lexus says the same body-on-frame underpinnings will be used for future electric products. 

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It features a bevvy of impressive technology and a 3.5-litre V6 turbodiesel unit that replaces the outgoing model's 4.8-litre V8 with 260 kW and a colossal 650 Nm of torque. Gone is the previous model's 6-speed automatic gearbox; it's been replaced by a 10-speed automatic. 

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If you enjoy towing, you'll be pleased to know that the GX has a towing capacity of 3,500 kg, which is comparable to most SUVs.

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It utilises a full-time four-wheel-drive and a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential, while the off-road-biased Overtrail also gets a locking rear differential. 

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The GX is equipped with various systems that improve its performance on and off the road. These systems include optimised front and rear suspensions for stability, tuned electric power steering, and off-road capabilities. Lexus has even enlisted the help of professional rally drivers to contribute to the car's development program.

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The new Lexus GX is available in Luxury, Luxury+, Overtrail and Premium guises for deserving markets. 

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Besides its commanding and boxy stance, the Overtrail sits on bespoke all-terrain 18" rims wrapped in 33" rubbers with a 20 mm wider track housed within black wheel arch mouldings. Other adventurous features include side under protection, aluminium under-guards and optional raised bumper corners for the off-road focused Overtrail trim.

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Depending on the chosen variant, the other trims can be specified with up to 22" wheels.  

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For the first time in a Lexus, the GX has an Electronic-Kinetic Dynamic Suspension system for enhanced comfort when driving over uneven terrain by suppressing body roll. 

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The front end of the GX features a separate central structure designed to carry accessories. Weekend adventure, anyone? 

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Outside, the GX is longer and wider but with a slightly reduced overall height than the variant it replaces. It's unmistakably a Lexus, courtesy of a uniquely styled massive spindle grille and high-positioned headlights, while the rear boasts the brand's L-shaped light bar with high-set lights. 

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It can be had in 11 exterior shades; Eminent White Pearl, Nebula Gray Pearl, Atomic Silver, Incognito, Caviar, Nori Green Pearl, and Nightfall Mica. The Overtrail and Overtrail+ grades will have a unique contrast of a black roof and a body in one of these colours; Atomic Silver, Incognito, Nori Green Pearl, or Earth.

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Inside, it adopts the brand's Tazuna concept for the driver's cockpit, whereby principal controls and information can be controlled via gesture control or eye movements. A 14" touchscreen is the gateway to the vehicle's functions, with a 12.3" digital instrument cluster indicating all pertinent driving information. The former supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Buyers will be able to further specify a head-up display as an option. 

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The GX's interior can be configured with five or six seats with various upholstery choices, such as semi-aniline leather and NuLuxe in Black, Dapple Gray, and Saddle Tan.

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The GX remains a distant fantasy for us, as Lexus has no intention of bringing it to our shores. But we can take comfort in the mighty LX, which fills the gap with its impressive abilities. Along with its cousin, the Toyota Land Cruiser 300, it rules the road and conquers the trails with ease. 

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