Although it’s been around for more than 20 years in overseas markets the Lexus GX has
yet to be sold in Australia, due to a right-hand drive version being unavailable. Although
Lexus Australia has yet to confirm whether the just-launched third-generation version will
come here it seems likely that it will.
Based on the Toyota LandCruiser Prado, the GX is a seven-seat off-road vehicle that sits
between the RX and LX in the Lexus SUV line-up.
Styling is similar to the LandCruiser 300 Series but with a frameless version of the
signature Lexus black spindle grille in front of a concave bonnet framed by L-shaped
daytime running lights.
Like other Lexus SUVs, a single LED light strip runs across the width of the tailgate,
accompanied by ‘LEXUS’ lettering and compact combination tail lamps. The tailgate also
features an opening for the upper glass compartment, allowing easy access to the cargo
area.
Globally, the new GX will be available with the choice of two powertrains, starting with a
3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, providing
strong towing ability and performance that furthers the Lexus Driving Signature.
The first ever hybrid powertrain for a body-on-frame Lexus vehicle will also be offered in
the form of a 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol hybrid and newly developed eight-
speed automatic transmission.
Both powertrains employ a full-time all-wheel drive set-up with a low-range transfer case
and locking centre differential.
Inside, the second-row seat configuration can be chosen with either a bench seat or
captain’s chairs, while the third row can be stowed neatly into the floor with an electric
folding mechanism
The 14-inch infotainment screen uses a combination of touchscreen and buttons for the
multimedia system, with particular emphasis given to the size, shape, layout and display
information of the switches.
A full suite of Lexus Safety System and active safety technologies is included on the GX.
The all-new GX is underpinned by the same GA-F ladder-frame architecture underpinning
as the Lexus LX flagship SUV and provides added strength, improved on-and off-road
driving and compatibility with the latest safety and off-road technologies.
Adaptive variable suspension improves on-road ride comfort and handling stability, with
both front and rear suspension using shock absorbers featuring independent telescopic
valves and friction control modules.
To cater for serious off-roaders there’s a special five-seat Overtrail variant which adopts
exclusive functional and design features essential for a rugged off-road vehicle.
More than just a series of visual upgrades, the Overtrail introduces the E-KDSS
suspension system for the first time on a Lexus, offering independent control of the front
and rear electric stabilisers to further improve wheel articulation and grip in off-road
conditions.
Multi-Terrain Select controls the system’s drive control and suspension to offer six drive
modes (Auto, Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow and Rock) for improved performance on all
surfaces.
Crawl control offers five low-speed settings allowing drivers to traverse uneven terrain
without operating the accelerator or brakes, while Downhill Assist Control automatically
and independently adjusts the hydraulic pressure of each wheel brake when descending
steep slopes.
A multi-terrain monitor uses cameras mounted on the front, sides and rear to display high-
definition images of the vehicle’s surroundings including underneath the vehicle floor,
helping the driver accurately position the wheels and avoid unforeseen obstacles.
