Lexus locks in GX for Oz

LEXUS Australia has confirmed that it will offer the all-new GX four-wheel drive Down Under from early next year.

Likely based on the forthcoming Toyota LandCruiser Prado, the premium offering will be offered initially with a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine under the bonnet, with a 2.4-litre petrol/electric hybrid to follow in due course.

There is no word yet as to whether the 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel unit offered in the Prado will make its way into the Lexus model.

According to Lexus Australia chief executive, John Pappas, the third generation GX has been designed for a wider global audience and infuses the spirit of outdoor adventure and genuine off-road capability with levels of everyday luxury and refinement expected of a Lexus.

“The GX is ideal for discerning customers looking for a sophisticated yet rugged full-size SUV to take the whole family camping and back again in true Lexus style,” said Mr Pappas.

“When it arrives in the first half of next year the GX will bolster our formidable luxury SUV line-up with its unmatched practicality.

“Large families with active lifestyles will appreciate the GX's flexibility of carrying up to seven occupants. It is a true all-rounder, offering superb on-road manners and true off-road performance.”

It is understood that six- and seven-seat versions of the GX will be available locally, with a dedicated off-road variant offering a five-seat configuration exclusively.

The 2024 Lexus GX is underpinned by the same highly rigid GA-F ladder-frame platform found beneath the flagship LX SUV. It rides on a 2850mm wheelbase with short overhangs to provide improved off-road capabilities.

Suspension duties fall to a double wishbone front and four-link rigid rear arrangement supported by adaptive dampers. Full-time all-wheel drive is paired with a centre locking differential and low-range transfer case. All variants will be equipped as standard with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Lexus says the combination “is best suited to the GX producing acceptable towing performance and all-terrain driving in all weather conditions”. A full suite of Lexus Safety System + active safety technologies will be offered on the GX, paired with Lexus Connected Services functionality.

Inside, the Lexus GX is set to offer a 14.0-inch infotainment touchscreen “supporting the latest connectivity features and offering an intuitive user experience”. Based on equipment offered in other markets, it is also likely the model will feature a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, digital key fob, head-up display, a wireless device charging pad and up to six USB-C outlets.

It is understood two grade-dependent audio systems will be available, a 10-speaker Lexus system and a premium 21-speaker Mark Levinson arrangement by Harman International Industries.

Lexus Australia has confirmed that the off-road focused Overtrail grade will “further enhance the GX's off-road credentials” with E-KDSS suspension system to improve wheel articulation and ground contact when traversing tricky terrain and a six-mode Multi-Terrain Select system that will allow drivers to “maximise traction and performance on a wide range of surfaces”.

Details on the Australian GX range including pricing and specification will be announced closer to its launch in the first half of 2024.