Like the larger LX, the new GX is built on the GA-F frame platform. Its advantages Japanese engineers include a lower center of gravity and increased body rigidity. Handling should become more precise, especially since instead of a hydraulic power steering, it is now electric. Another feature is that the fifth door is now lifting, not hinged. An electric drive is provided as standard (just hold your foot under the bumper) and a separately opening rear window on gas stops.
Despite the difference in dimensions and market positioning, the GX is unified with the LX also in terms of wheelbase length: 2850 mm. That’s 60mm more than the second generation GX, while the new SUV is noticeably longer (4950mm; +70mm) and wider (1980mm; +95mm). The increase went entirely to the rear overhang (it became longer by 30 mm), and the front one, respectively, turned out to be 20 mm shorter. As a result, the base GX has an approach angle of 26° and a departure angle of 21°. The choice will be offered wheels with a diameter of 18, 20 or 22 inches. The volume of the trunk is not reported, but it is stated that it has become more spacious.
The all-wheel drive system with a center differential is the same, as is the rear axle suspension scheme, but Lexus says it has redesigned the front double wishbone, and the downshift now engages faster thanks to new actuators. The Overtrail and Overtrail+ special editions will also feature E-KDSS hydraulic stabilizers, an electronically controlled rear differential lock, Multi-Terrain Select road mode selection and off-road tires with an outside diameter of 33 inches and aluminum underbody protection, as well as a 20 mm wider track.
Lexus GX 550
Of course, the new GX could not save the atmospheric G8, because even the flagship family of SUVs had already switched to six-cylinder turbo engines. The 3.4-liter V6 with the V35A-FTS index is fundamentally the same as on the older models, but for the sake of subordination, it has been deformed from 415 to 354 hp. With. with constant torque (650 Nm). Instead of a six-speed “automatic”, now a ten-speed one, besides, an increase in power (“eight” on a car of the previous generation gave out only 296 hp and 438 Nm) will allow towing trailers weighing 3.5 tons.
A 3.3-liter diesel engine will not be installed on the GX, but a hybrid version based on a 2.4-liter turbo four and an 8-speed automatic, like the new Toyota Tacoma pickup, has been announced for the American market. A 36-kilowatt electric motor will be built into the box body, and the peak output of the power plant should be 331 hp. With. and 630 Nm.
The SUV will be available in both five- and seven-seater versions, and the third row seats can be ordered with an electric folding function, and on the second row, instead of a sofa (it folds in a 60:40 ratio), there can be separate captain’s chairs. It is stated that the interior has become more spacious, and riders now have 12 cup holders and six USB connectors.
The front panel is more conservative than the LX – instead of two screens, there is one 14-inch diagonal with support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay wireless applications. The control of the climate control system is “wired” into it, since you can use the wheels to adjust the temperature in each “zone”.
The front seats are regularly not only heated, but also ventilated, however, only heating is offered for the sofa on the second row, and even then not in all trim levels. The cushion, lumbar support and headrests of the front seats, according to Lexus representatives, have been modified so that riders are less tired on a long road. Upholstery materials include NuLuxe synthetics, Ultrasuede fabric and genuine semi-aniline leather.
A full set of electronic assistants Lexus Safety System + 3.0 will already be in the basic package. The list of options includes a Mark Levinson audio system with 21 speakers, a panoramic roof, a digital key, a refrigerator in the central tunnel, a projection display, a third “zone” of climate control for second-row passengers, etc.
The model will be assembled at the Tahara plant in Japan. Over time, the assembly of the new Prado will be arranged there. The third generation GX will debut in the home market in early 2024, and deliveries to other countries will begin soon.
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