SYDNEY: Australian 4x4 enthusiasts and those seeking to accommodate up to six passengers now have the choice of a new supremely capable SUV offering rugged looks, luxurious specification and strong performance on- and off-road with the launch of the all-new GX 550.
Marking the first time for the GX nameplate in Australia, the latest Lexus off-roader slots in between the family-sized five-seater RX and top-of-the-line LX.
GX arrives in Australia in three generously specified grades, including the debut of Overtrail for maximum capability over the most challenging off-road conditions.
All GX grades are powered by the smooth and torque-rich 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine, producing 260kW of power from 4800-5200rpm and 650Nm of torque from 2000-3600rpm.
A DirectShift 10-speed torque-converter automatic transmission offers a wide band of close-gear ratios for powerful performance while also aiding fuel economy, and drives all four wheels via a full-time all-wheel drive system with a locking centre differential and low-range gearing.
The all-new GX 550 range opens from $116,000 plus on-road costs for the seven-seat Luxury grade which brings with it a high level of standard specification, signature Lexus omotenashi touches and powerful performance from its 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine.
Overtrail is the middle grade and is priced from $122,250 plus on-roads, with off-road focused enhancements including unique exterior features, all-terrain tyres and – in a first for Lexus – Electronic-Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (eKDSS) for the perfect balance of off-road driveability and on-road handling stability.
Topping the GX range is the opulent Sports Luxury grade from $128,200 plus on-roads, signified as the flagship variant with lavish appointments including 22-inch alloy wheels, semi-aniline leather accented upholstery and premium Mark Levinson®3 audio system.
Lexus Australia Chief Executive John Pappas said the addition of the GX to the luxury lifestyle brand’s expanding lineup will meet the needs of customers keen to explore the rugged outdoors.
“The all-new GX is an incredibly desirable vehicle for Australian families and adventurers, shown by the strong interest from the time it was announced one year ago,” Mr Pappas said.
“GX offers the best of both worlds. It delivers trademark Lexus luxury and craftsmanship for superior comfort and refinement; while its robust design, V6 performance and enhanced 4x4 hardware give it the credentials to tackle some of the toughest terrain the country has to offer.
“The addition of a third row of seats on Luxury and Sports Luxury grades brings seven-seat flexibility to the large SUV segment, which will be appreciated by families needing the extra space.”
The fundamental capability and strength of the GX is underpinned by its rigid GA-F ladder-frame architecture which supports a luxurious and capable outdoor lifestyle.
The GX measures 5,015mm in length, with a width of 1,980 or 2,000mm and height of 1,925 or 1,935mm depending on the grade. All share the same 2,850mm wheelbase.
The GX’s exterior design is bold, brave and unmistakeably Lexus with the spindle shape forming from the forward edge of the bonnet through to the grille and lower bumper.
Its muscular proportions and squared off edges create a striking silhouette, juxtaposed with stylish Lexus luxury touches including the black, frameless grille, selection of stylish large alloy wheels and dynamic exterior LED lighting.
The rugged-yet-luxurious theme is replicated inside the cabin with a utilitarian theme overlaid with luxurious craftsmanship and thoughtful features to make every outing an enjoyable one.
From the outside, the range-opening Luxury is identified by its 20-inch alloys, all-round exterior LED lighting, flat-type roof rails, power-operated moon roof, rear spoiler and body-coloured door handles.
Interior appointments include Nulux upholstery on all seven seats, with heating function for front and second-row outboard occupants. Front seats gain ventilation, eight-way power adjustment with two-way lumbar adjustment and memory function for the driver.
Three-zone climate control with nanoeX air ionisation provides further occupant comfort, while convenience is enhanced with power-folding third-row seats, power back door with glass hatch, smart entry and start and one-touch power windows.
Despite its rugged image, the GX is brimming with the latest Lexus multimedia technology, offering a 14-inch multimedia display with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, 12.3-inch full digital instrument cluster and colour head-up display (HUD) across the range, paired on Luxury grades with a 10-speaker audio system, wireless phone charger6, a total of six USB-C ports and a 220V socket in the rear.
All GX vehicles come fitted with Lexus Connected Services facilitated by a Data Communication Module installed inside the vehicle, bring a range of safety, security and vehicle information benefits to the customer’s fingertips.
A comprehensive suite of Lexus Safety System+ active safety technologies is standard across the GX range, including the Pre-Collision System with dynamic radar cruise control, lane trace assist, front and rear parking support brake and a panoramic view monitor.
A complimentary three-year subscription to Lexus Encore owner benefits program is included with every new GX purchase, providing owners with access to DriveCare 24/7 roadside assistance, VIP offers with Lexus luxury hotel partners, invitations to exclusive events, and discounts to movies and Ampol premium fuels11and more.
The fuel savings and special deals on accommodation especially will be welcomed by GX customers in the pursuit of wonderful lifestyle experiences made possible through the most utilitarian Lexus yet.
The outback-conquering Overtrail grade maximises the excellent fundamental capability of the GX platform and is clearly identified from the outside by its black 18-inch alloy wheels and Toyo Open Country all-terrain tyres, unique off-road enhanced front and rear bumpers, black wheelarch mouldings, door handles and exterior mirrors, and optional two-tone roof.
Inside, the five-seat-only Overtrail gains unique seats with olive green Ultrasuede front accents and stitching, special ornamentation and garnish, a slim credit card key fob and refrigerated cool box.
Overtrail truly separates itself from its siblings with under-the-skin mechanical enhancements, starting with the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) and Lexus-first electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (eKDSS) which can constantly engage and disengage the front and rear stabiliser bars to maximise traction and comfort off-road.
The suspension systems are paired with traction aids including Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control, Downhill Assist Control and a rear electronic locking differential; along with an upgraded alternator and Multi-Terrain Monitor which may allow drivers to gain a full view of the vehicle’s undercarriage and surroundings.
Crowning the GX range is the flagship Sports Luxury which takes signature Lexus craftsmanship and opulence to a new level with a range of welcome guest-focused enhancements.
Building on the Luxury grade, the Sports Luxury gains AVS, unique 22-inch alloy wheels, high-grade LED headlights featuring the Adaptive High-beam System with BladeScan technology, a fixed panoramic roof with opaque dimming function, kick sensor for the powered tailgate and automatic extending/folding side steps.
The seven-seat Sports Luxury gains semi-aniline leather accented upholstery with a wider choice of interior colours, massaging front seats with 10-way driver’s seat adjustment, heated steering wheel, multi-colour ambient interior illumination, illuminated scuff plates, credit card key, refrigerated cool box and manual rear sun shades.
Audiophiles will also appreciate the Sports Luxury’s 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system for incredible playback clarity even at high volumes.
An integrated towing hitch receiver and trailer wiring harness connection allows for the easy fitment of towing equipment, providing up to 3,500kg of braked towing capacity on Luxury and Overtrail grades, and 3,130kg on Sports Luxury.
