Lexus GX: Where Luxury Meets Untamed Wilderness
Lexus's arrival in South Africa has always been about setting a certain standard. A standard of refined luxury, yes, but also a quiet, unyielding capability. The GX 550, now gracing our shores, embodies this ethos, stepping into a segment traditionally dominated by the Land Cruiser Prado. And it arrives with a clear intent: to redefine what a premium off-roader can be.
The GX’s history is rooted in a blend of Toyota’s legendary off-road engineering and Lexus’s signature luxury. While North America and Eurasian markets have enjoyed the GX for two decades, South Africa is a relatively new stage for this vehicle. Born as the GX 470 in 2002, it was always the Prado’s more opulent sibling. Each subsequent generation, including the GX 460, brought incremental improvements in technology and refinement. Now, the GX 550 signals a significant leap.
Under the sculpted hood lies a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6, a departure from the previous V8, but a welcome one. With 260kW and a formidable 650Nm of torque, it effortlessly eclipses the Prado’s 2.8-litre turbo diesel, which, at 150kW and 500Nm, feels noticeably less potent. Mated to a 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission, the GX delivers a smooth, yet assertive, power delivery. Sharing the GA-F platform with the Prado J250, the GX inherits a strong foundation, but Lexus has imbued it with its own distinct character.
Off-road, the GX is a serious contender. The Overtrail variant, in particular, showcases this intent with its Electronic-Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) and Multi-Terrain Select, offering six modes to conquer diverse terrains. The wider stance and increased ground clearance provide a tangible advantage in challenging environments. The GX is designed to tackle South Africa’s demanding landscapes.
Inside, the “Tazuna” cockpit centers the driver, placing controls within intuitive reach. A 14-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster offer modern connectivity, while the high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship create a luxurious ambiance. The GX SE, with its seven seats, semi-aniline leather, and Mark Levinson sound system, caters to those seeking ultimate comfort.
Safety is paramount, with the Lexus Safety System+ as standard, encompassing features like Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
Pricing, as expected, reflects the GX’s premium positioning. The Overtrail starts at R1,766,000, while the SE commands R1,829,000. For context, the Prado 2.8GD VX-R is priced at R 1 485 300. The GX comes with a 7-year/100,000km warranty and a full maintenance plan.
The GX 550 raises a pertinent question: does the added luxury, power, and technology justify the premium over its Toyota sibling? For those who demand a blend of off-road prowess and uncompromised luxury, the GX 550 presents a compelling proposition. It’s not merely a Prado in a tuxedo; it’s a distinct vehicle with a clear identity.
