Lexus has unveiled the new and mighty GX luxury off-road SUV.
The new-generation seven-seat GX is positioned between the RX and LX in the company’s SUV line-up and is underpinned by the same GA-F ladder-frame architecture underpinning the larger LX.
The suspension system uses a high-mount double-wishbone arrangement at the front, with Lexus saying engineers fine-tuned the coil spring rate while increasing the caster trail and minimising the king pin offset to promote excellent stability during straight-line driving, cornering and braking.
At the rear, a four-link rigid axle with lateral control arms is used.
Adaptive variable suspension is aimed at improving on-road ride comfort and handling stability, with both front and rear suspension using shock absorbers featuring independent telescopic valves and friction control modules.
A 26-degree approach angle has been increased by five degrees compared to the previous GX while reducing front overhang by 20mm.
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. The first 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.
Along with high-tech features for off-road work, such as crawl control, the GX has a full suite of Lexus Safety System + active safety technologies and is, of course, a comfortable place for just about any excursion.
On the inside, there’s also a head-up display, a digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch centre display, and a flexible second-row seat configuration that allows customers to choose between a bench seat or captain’s chairs.
While the GX is not confirmed for the local market, Lexus Australia says it continues to assess models that may be suitable, with the GX being no exception.
Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (July 2023)
12 July 2023
