Lexus is known for its reliable, durable and luxury vehicles. In the luxury SUV segment, the brand has rolled out models that offer a blend of high performance and comfort. Lexus GX is one such model. The luxury SUV is known for its excellent off-roading capabilities. It is one of the few SUVs that can perform well in rugged terrains.
Here, we have laid down the Lexus GX history, generations and its rise to fame.
LEXUS GX GENERATIONS
The GX in this series stands for Grand Crossover. It is among the most popular used Lexus SUVs in the UAE. Currently in its third generation, the Lexus GX offers a comfortable interior, advanced technology features and a smooth ride. Here is the Lexus GX history and timeline.
LEXUS GX FIRST GENERATION (2003-2009)
The first Lexus GX series was launched in 2003 and shared the same manufacturing platform as the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. The SUV boasted a coloured-body front bumper. It also had a chrome grille of three slats with front lights that rounded off at the edges. Besides, the flared wheel arches and plastic side moulding design were retained from the Land Cruiser models.
The GX interior offered seating for seven. It also had two jump seats located in the trunk. The SUV also housed a sedan-inspired dashboard with a centre stack and wood trims. The Lexus GX70 had a standard automatic transmission due to which the gear selector was installed near the front centre armrest.
The Lexus GX old models drew power from a 4.7-litre V8 engine. It was paired with a five-speed automatic transmission and generated 235 horsepower.
LEXUS GX SECOND GENERATION (2009-2013)
The second generation of the GX series rolled out in 2009. By this time, the mid-sized SUV had already gained ground due to its off-roading capabilities. However, with the second generation, a new take on luxury SUVs was introduced. These models were offered in two trims: Base and Premium.
The SUV’s standard features included heated outside mirrors, 18-inch alloy wheels and a sunroof. The base level also included a backup camera and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. On the other hand, the Premium trim was equipped with adaptive xenon headlights and additional chrome trims.
On the inside, the base level had leather for car upholstery and heated and ventilated power seats. It also featured power-folding third-row seats plus a dual-zone automatic climate control system.
The new GX 460 came with a 4.6-litre V8 engine that produced 301 hp. It was mated with a six-speed automatic transmission. Besides, the crawl control system added to the off-roading competence.
For driver and passenger safety, Lexus installed antilock disc brakes, down-hill assist control and safety control. Also, a pre-collision system was offered as a standalone option.
LEXUS GX SECOND GENERATION FACELIFT (2013-2019)
The luxury SUV received a facelift in 2013. The fresh version revealed a new front fascia with a wider car grille. It also flared rear fenders and triangular tail lights mounted on the D-pillars.
The revised version’s interior also had some changes. It featured a navigation system display and a blue LCD between the car speedometer and tachometer.
LEXUS GX SECOND GENERATION FACELIFT (2019-2022)
Further changes were made to the Lexus GX 460 in 2019. A few tweaks were made to the exterior plus the interior was enhanced with new features. The infotainment system offered Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity.
Also, it enabled connectivity with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa. This allowed users to remotely lock or unlock doors, initiate the engine’s start and manage the vehicle’s interior climate.
LEXUS GX THIRD GENERATION (2023-PRESENT)
The third generation in the timeline of Lexus GX models has been commenced by the 2024 model. However, the model has not yet been released in the Emirates.
The new model features a completely redesigned exterior with a palette of earthy tones. It is offered in six new grades. Plus, overtrail models come equipped with standard 33-inch all-terrain tyres mounted on 18-inch wheels. They also feature black accented car fenders and an aluminium skid plate as standard features, further enhancing their rugged appearance.
The new GX interior offers three seating rows, adding to the passenger comfort. Moreover, the new model also boasts a 12.3-inch infotainment display and an optional 21-speaker audio system. The cockpit design is centred around the driver, with instruments carefully arranged to reduce potential driver distractions.
The 2024 Lexus GX draws power from a 3.5-litre V6 engine. It is paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission and can generate up to 354 horsepower.
In addition, the new GX features several advanced off-roading features. These include multi-terrain select, crawl control, downhill assist control and the 3D multi-terrain monitor system, among others.
Furthermore, to enhance wheel articulation, an Electronic-Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System is also incorporated in the Lexus GX.
FAQs
When was the Lexus GX series introduced?
The first generation of the Lexus GX series was launched in 2003.
What does GX stand for in Lexus?
The GX in the Lexus series stands for Grand Crossover.
Is the Lexus GX made in Japan?
Lexus is a Toyota-owned car brand with its headquarters in Japan. As for the GX series, it is manufactured at Toyota’s Tahara assembly plant in Aichi Prefecture, Japan.
All in all, these were the details and generations of Lexus GX history. The SUV is known for its rugged performance and luxurious interior. Speaking of that, if you also want to avail this model, go through these used Lexus GX models for sale to have your pick. You can also visit Lexus showrooms in the UAE for more details on other models.
For more on current car trends, recent launches and transport news, keep reading dubizzle’s autos blog.
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