Lexus, since its inception in 1989, has been synonymous with innovation, consistently pushing technological and design boundaries to bring fresh value to its discerning clientele. Continuing this legacy, the all-new GX emerges as a premium, all-wheel-drive SUV, engineered with authentic off-road driving capabilities. This introduction marks a significant step in the diversification of Lexus’ global product range, designed to appeal to new market segments and cater to a broader spectrum of customer lifestyles.
Koji Tsukusaki, Chief Engineer, encapsulates the essence of the new GX: “The joy of ownership lies in the reassurance of high performance – akin to a diver’s watch – without the constant need to push its off-road limits.” This statement highlights the dual nature of the New Lexus Gx: capable and robust for adventurous terrains, yet refined and comfortable for everyday luxury.
This model is a ground-up redesign, presenting a more powerful and assertive aesthetic. The exterior design of the new Lexus GX clearly communicates its purpose and ability to conquer challenging conditions. Lexus’ “Next Chapter” design philosophy has been specifically adapted to meet the rigorous demands of off-road environments. In contrast, the interior offers a modern, spacious, and serene atmosphere, featuring a driver-focused Tazuna cockpit that provides commanding visibility.
Under the hood, a new 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine delivers significantly enhanced power and torque compared to the outgoing V8. This powertrain upgrade not only elevates the driving experience but also grants the new Lexus GX class-leading towing capability, reaching up to 3.5 tonnes.
Lexus’ commitment to a human-centered approach is evident throughout the vehicle. The integration of new control and handling systems for off-road driving ensures intuitive and confident operation. Simultaneously, the on-road composure and comfort of the GX have been significantly improved, making it a versatile vehicle for all terrains.
The arrival of the all-new GX underscores Lexus’ ambition to cultivate a product lineup that comprehensively addresses the diverse needs and preferences of a wider customer base. It is slated to be available in select markets starting in early 2024, offering customers extensive personalization options through a range of dedicated styling and functional accessories.
EXTERIOR: Authentic Off-Roader Design Language
The new Lexus GX immediately conveys the robust proportions expected of a genuine off-road vehicle. The design team prioritized expressing the vehicle’s inherent performance capabilities through its visual language. This is evident in the pulled-back front pillars, powerfully flared wings, and a low belt line, all contributing to an aesthetic that suggests the vehicle has been sculpted from a solid block of metal.
Compared to its predecessor, the new Lexus GX is both longer and wider, with an extended wheelbase, while maintaining a reduced overall height. These revised dimensions contribute to a more planted stance and enhanced interior space.
The bonnet’s thick, squared-off form projects an image of toughness and durability. Importantly, the low-set center section of the bonnet is designed to ensure the driver maintains excellent visibility of the front corners, facilitating confident maneuvering in tight spots and off-road scenarios. Coupled with a shorter front overhang, the new Lexus GX boasts an improved approach angle, essential for tackling steep inclines and challenging obstacles.
The grille, uniquely designed for the new Lexus GX, features a distinctive criss-cross mesh pattern and seamlessly integrates with a body-colored under-guard. This strong frontal element establishes lines that contribute to the powerful and recognizable “spindle body” shape. Both the grille and the headlamp units are positioned as high as possible, a practical design choice to minimize the risk of damage from obstacles encountered during off-road driving. Similarly, the radiator cooling ducts are also placed high to ensure consistent and reliable performance even in demanding conditions.
At the rear, the signature Lexus L-shaped light bar is prominently featured with high-set lamps. This design element not only enhances the vehicle’s modern aesthetic but also improves visibility, making the new Lexus GX easier to spot when driving in convoy, particularly in off-road environments.
INTERIOR: A Modern and Serene Cabin Experience
Regardless of the external challenges presented by the terrain, the interior of the new Lexus GX is crafted to be a modern and calming sanctuary. Lexus’ human-centered design philosophy has been instrumental in creating a space where occupants feel relaxed and secure, no matter the journey’s demands.
The new Lexus GX is the latest model to embrace Lexus’ Tazuna cockpit concept. This design principle meticulously positions all primary controls and information sources for intuitive access, requiring minimal hand and eye movement from the driver. The “Tazuna” concept, derived from the Japanese word for reins used in horse riding, reflects the ease and precision with which a rider controls a horse with subtle adjustments. The horizontal instrument panel and lower belt line contribute to excellent all-round visibility, providing the driver with a clear sense of the vehicle’s orientation and position at all times. A prominent 14-inch touchscreen display serves as the central hub for multimedia functions, offering clear and effortless interaction.
Exceptional attention has been devoted to the driver’s seat design, engineered to provide enhanced support around the waist and pelvis. The seat cushion is specifically structured to promote spinal and head stability, significantly reducing fatigue during long journeys.
The interior of the new Lexus GX is inherently flexible. It can be configured to accommodate five or six passengers and offers substantial cargo space. With the rear seats folded down, the vehicle can comfortably carry a 29-inch mountain bike, demonstrating its practicality for active lifestyles.
POWERTRAIN: New V6 Turbo Power with Class-Leading Towing
A significant powertrain upgrade debuts in the new Lexus GX range: a state-of-the-art turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine. Despite its smaller displacement compared to the previous 4.6-liter V8, this new engine delivers considerably more power and torque, a testament to advancements in engine technology and engineering. Maximum power output is rated at 354 DIN hp/260 kW, a significant increase from the V8’s 296 DIN hp/218 kW. Peak torque sees an even more substantial jump, increasing by almost 50% from 438 to 650 Nm.
This enhanced power and torque translate directly to class-leading towing capability. The new Lexus GX is capable of towing loads up to 3,500 kg (approximately 7,700 lbs), providing ample strength to tow substantial loads like a 23-foot boat and trailer.
The engine is paired with a sophisticated 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission, replacing the previous six-speed gearbox. This new transmission is meticulously tuned to deliver a sensation of strong, continuous acceleration and immediate responsiveness to throttle inputs. Customers will also appreciate the inherently quieter operation of the advanced V6 engine, contributing to a more refined driving experience.
DYNAMIC PERFORMANCE: Strength, Security, and Lexus Refinement
The new Lexus GX is undeniably a serious off-road machine, yet it retains the hallmark Lexus refinement. Its foundational strength stems from the new GA-F global architecture platform and a robust body-on-frame construction. While this robust architecture equips it to confidently tackle challenging off-road conditions, the new Lexus GX also embodies the Lexus Driving Signature – characterized by control, comfort, and confidence in all driving scenarios. It delivers poised, stable performance and a smooth, composed ride quality even on paved roads.
The front and rear suspension systems are meticulously optimized for stability, whether navigating rugged trails or cruising on highways. At the rear, precise suspension tuning effectively minimizes the impact felt when driving over uneven surfaces like ruts and potholes. Furthermore, the implementation of advanced body joint reinforcement techniques contributes to a more sophisticated and refined driving feel overall.
The electric power steering system is specifically tuned to provide fluid responsiveness at lower speeds, crucial for off-road maneuvering, and reassuring stability during high-speed cruising. Steering accuracy is enhanced by the increased body rigidity, further improved by structural enhancements such as stronger radiator and steering supports. Drivers will also notice a significant reduction in steering kick-back on rough terrains and benefit from the enhanced steering support provided by the assistance systems within the third-generation Lexus Safety System+.
In terms of off-road performance, comprehensive improvements have been implemented, focusing on “the art of low speed.” This philosophy aims to elevate the model’s off-road prowess through both design innovations and the integration of new and enhanced technologies. A human-centered approach to merging off-road functionalities with advanced technology ensures the new Lexus GX is intuitive and engaging to drive. The driver experiences a genuine dialogue with the vehicle and the terrain, regardless of surface conditions. This responsive and connected driving quality was a key focus for the professional rally drivers who participated in the prototype testing phase during the vehicle’s development program.
THE GX OVERTRAIL: Focused Off-Road Performance and Style
The Overtrail grade represents a new flagship model, specifically emphasizing the new Lexus GX’s inherent qualities as an authentic and highly capable off-road vehicle. In terms of styling, equipment, and technology features, the GX Overtrail maximizes the vehicle’s potential to conquer challenging terrains and cater to customers with adventurous lifestyles.
The GX Overtrail projects a commanding presence with exclusive 18-inch wheels, a 20 mm wider tread for enhanced stability, black wheel arch moldings, robust side under protection, and durable aluminum under-guards. These protective elements are not merely cosmetic; they instill driver confidence when tackling more demanding routes. New all-terrain tires, developed in close collaboration with Lexus’ tire suppliers, further enhance off-road performance and grip.
The Overtrail variant can be optionally equipped with raised bumper corners, further improving maneuverability around obstacles in tight off-road situations. The Electronic – Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS), a first for a Lexus model, provides additional support when traversing extremely uneven ground, offering greater wheel articulation for improved traction and stability. E-KDSS also contributes to more composed on-road handling by effectively suppressing body roll during cornering.
The front of the GX Overtrail features a distinct central structure specifically designed to accommodate off-road accessories. A wide array of additional features can be specified for the new Lexus GX, empowering owners to personalize their vehicle and equip it for their specific outdoor pursuits and adventures.
