Lexus has officially launched the all-new GX luxury SUV in South Africa, marking the local arrival of a vehicle that blends off-road prowess with premium refinement. Built on the same platform as the iconic Toyota Prado, the GX brings a fresh take on performance and luxury, tailored for South African roads and terrains. Prices start at R1,766,000, and the SUV is offered in two trim levels: the adventure-ready Overtrail and the ultra-luxurious SE.
Power and Performance
Under the hood, the GX differentiates itself from its Toyota sibling by adopting a petrol powertrain instead of diesel. It features a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 engine that delivers an impressive 260kW of power and 650Nm of torque.
The engine is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and a permanent four-wheel-drive system, providing seamless performance across various terrains. With this setup, the GX can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 7.0 seconds. However, the performance comes with a trade-off in fuel efficiency, returning a consumption rate of 12.3l/100km. When it comes to off-road capability, the GX doesn’t disappoint. With a 220mm ground clearance, 27° approach angle, and 22° departure angle, it is well-equipped for rough terrain.
Trims and Capabilities
The GX is available in two distinct variants:
- GX Overtrail – Designed for off-road enthusiasts, it features 18-inch wheels, synthetic leather upholstery, a rear differential lock, and Lexus’ Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (e-KDSS), which enhances articulation on uneven surfaces. It also comes with hill descent control, crawl control, and Multi-terrain Select settings.
- GX SE – Geared toward comfort and space, this model comes with 22-inch wheels, semi-aniline leather, a digital rearview mirror, and a panoramic sunroof. Unlike the five-seater Overtrail, the SE offers seven seats, making it ideal for larger families.
Luxury and Technology
Both models are packed with luxury features, including:
- LED headlights with DRLs
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Keyless entry and push-start
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Dual-zone climate control
- Fridge and wireless charger
- 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in navigation
A digital driver’s display and heads-up display add to the high-tech driving experience.
On the safety front, the GX is equipped with a comprehensive driver assistance suite, including:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane trace assist
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert with braking
- 360-degree camera
- Trailer sway control
- Front and rear parking sensors
Key Features at a Glance
| Feature | Overtrail Trim | SE Trim |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Wheels | 18-inch alloys | 22-inch alloys |
| Upholstery | Synthetic leather | Semi-aniline leather |
| Suspension | e-KDSS with off-road focus | Standard luxury suspension |
| Sunroof | Moonroof | Panoramic sunroof |
| Rearview Mirror | Electrochromatic | Digital |
| Scuff Plates | Resin | Illuminated |
| Side Steps | Standard | Retractable |
| Extra Comfort | Off-road features | Massage seats, heated 2nd-row seats |
| Infotainment | 14-inch with Apple/Android support | Same |
| Audio System | Premium system | 21-speaker Mark Levinson system |
Pricing and Warranty
The official South African pricing for the Lexus GX is as follows:
- GX 550 Overtrail 3.5T – R1,766,000
- GX 550 Overtrail 3.5T Bi-Tone – R1,776,200
- GX 550 SE 3.5T – R1,829,000
Each purchase includes a 7-year/100,000km warranty and maintenance plan, ensuring peace of mind for buyers over the long term.The Lexus GX brings a unique combination of rugged capability and refined luxury to South Africa’s premium SUV market. Whether you’re venturing off-road in the Overtrail or cruising the city in the SE, the GX offers a compelling mix of performance, technology, and style — all wrapped in Lexus’ renowned reliability and customer care. This is not just another SUV – it’s a luxury statement with muscle.
Related article: Lexus LX: A Perfect Balance of Luxury and Off-Road Prowess
