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The Lexus spirit: Adventure, sophistication and all-round excellence in perfect harmony. It’s a bold new expression of luxury, capability and innovation. It’s an on road and off road experience that exceeds expectations. No doubt, a new benchmark in the premium off-road SUV segment has been set. I drove both derivatives, pushing them to the limit and I can conclude that there is a perfect blend of power, road handling and just sheer comfort. The new GX is designed to meet the needs of both urban explorers and off-road adventurers alike.
New GX 550: Bold Design Meets Modern Engineering
The new GX retains its traditional body-on-frame construction while incorporating modern advancements that improve stability, handling, and overall performance. Its bold, sculpted design makes a powerful statement, with a commanding presence that stands out on any terrain. The vehicle’s distinctive thick, squared-off bonnet and pulled-back front pillars reinforce its off-road prowess, while its wider stance and lower height enhance both visual impact and off-road stability.
A Cabin Crafted for Luxury and Control
Inside, the new GX offers an environment that is as luxurious as it is functional. The Tazuna cockpit places the driver at the centre of the experience, providing commanding visibility and intuitive access to controls. The fully digital instrument cluster and a generous 14-inch touchscreen multimedia system add to the advanced technology and convenience. The interior atmosphere is open and calming, designed with high-quality materials that emphasise comfort and style. The GX is available in both five- and seven-seat configurations, providing ample space for both passengers and gear.
The Overtrail variant offers unique interior enhancements, including durable yet refined materials, distinctive trim accents, and state-of-the-art technology, ensuring both comfort and durability for off-road adventurers.
Powerful Performance
At the heart of the new GX is a powerful twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 260kW and a remarkable 650Nm of torque. This enhanced powertrain ensures dynamic acceleration and exceptional performance on challenging terrain. Paired with a 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission, the GX delivers smooth acceleration and robust towing performance.
Conquer Any Terrain with Confidence
I put the GX 550 through its paces on very challenging off-roads in the Eastern Cape. Very steep inclines, equally deep declines and twisty curves and bends, over medium sized rocks and then some. The conditions were indeed rugged. The GX is engineered for the most demanding landscapes and is equipped with an array of advanced off-road technologies that ensure superior traction and stability.
Despite its off-road capabilities, the GX offers a smooth, composed ride on paved roads. Active noise control guarantees a serene and comfortable journey, whether navigating city streets or cruising on highways or just bundu bashing.
The Lexus GX SE Grade
The Lexus GX SE is a refined and versatile 7-seater luxury SUV, delivering both performance and comfort. Convenience features include a power back door with a kick sensor, auto-retractable side-step rails for ease of entry and exit, and a solid roof rail for added cargo versatility.
The cabin is finished in luxurious semi-aniline leather with massaging front seats, ensuring comfort on long journeys. The Mark Levinson 14-inch display and 21-speaker premium sound system deliver a superior in-cabin entertainment experience, while the Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) assists with tight manoeuvres.
GX Overtrail: Pushing the Limits
For those seeking ultimate off-road performance, the GX Overtrail variant is tailored for extreme exploration. With exclusive design elements, including 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tyres, a 20mm wider tread, and reinforced under protector, the Overtrail is built for the most challenging environments.
Advanced systems such as the Electronic-Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) and Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) provide unmatched traction and stability on any terrain. With six modes – Auto, Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow, and Rock – drivers can adapt the GX Overtrail to a wide range of conditions.
Overtrail: Where Luxury Meets Off-Road Adventure
Lexus has introduced Overtrail as a specialised sub-brand that merges the brand’s signature luxury with exceptional off-road capabilities. In the local market, only the LX and GX models are available in Overtrail grade.
Rooted in a commitment to sustainability and harmony with nature, Lexus launched the Overtrail Project to inspire adventure and a deeper appreciation for the outdoors. This initiative encourages exploration, seamlessly blending refined comfort with rugged capability. Whether for casual outings in nature or more extreme off-road experiences, the Overtrail Project serves as a bridge between luxury mobility and outdoor adventure.
Final Words
According to Vice President of Marketing at Lexus South Africa, Glenn Crompton, the all-new GX is perfect for adventure-focused Lexus customers seeking a luxurious and tough SUV that can take them deep into the outdoors.
“The GX combines the best of both worlds, offering the luxury and craftsmanship Lexus is renowned for, ensuring comfort and refinement. Its strong design, V6 performance, and improved 4x4 features – especially in the Overtrail grade – give it the credentials to tackle almost any terrain in South Africa. The inclusion of a third row of seats in the SE grade adds seven-seat flexibility, offering an ideal solution for families seeking additional space,” says Crompton.
PRICING
Lexus GX 550 Overtrail 3.5T: R1 766 000
Lexus GX 550 Overtrail 3.5T Bi-Tone: R1 776 200
Lexus GX 550 SE 3.5T: R1 829 000
The Lexus GX boasts a 7-year/100 000km Warranty and Full Maintenance Plan. Vehicle service intervals are pegged at 10 000km – alternatively once a year.
