...With a desirable Price Tag to Match
Lexus has finally introduced the all-new GX 550 to the Sub Saharan Africa market, boldly positioning it in the highly competitive premium off-road SUV segment. With pricing starting at R1 766 000 for the Overtrail 3.5T model and reaching up to R1 829 000 for the fully loaded SE 3.5T variant, the new GX is squarely aimed at seasoned adventurers who refuse to compromise on comfort, technology, or capability.
Slotting in between the more rugged Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and the ultra-premium Lexus LX, the GX finds itself facing off against established rivals like the Land Rover Defender 110, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Audi Q7, BMW X5 xDrive40d, and even the upper-spec Ford Everest Platinum.
What sets the GX apart is its unapologetically tough, body-on-frame construction paired with Lexus-grade refinement — a combination few competitors can match. It shares its GA-F platform with the Land Cruiser 300, yet brings a uniquely premium edge with standard features like massaging leather seats, advanced off-road driving aids, and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system. Under the bonnet, the GX 550 packs a powerful 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine that delivers 260kW and 650Nm of torque through a 10-speed automatic gearbox. This places it among the more powerful options in its class, with superior torque output compared to the V6 variants of the Defender and Prado.
However, unlike some rivals that offer plug-in hybrid or diesel alternatives, the GX is strictly petrol-powered – which may deter fuel-conscious buyers in this segment. On-road comfort, off-road prowess, and a meticulously appointed cabin give the GX a unique selling point, especially in the Overtrail grade, which caters to serious off-roaders with features like Multi-Terrain Select, crawl control, and Electronic-Kinetic Dynamic Suspension.
While the GX impresses with its capability and build quality, its high price and limited drivetrain options could make some buyers look twice at more versatile rivals. Still, for those looking for prize reliability, adventure-ready durability, and luxury in equal measure, the new GX arrives as a compelling, characterful option.
Slotting in between the more rugged Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and the ultra-premium Lexus LX, the GX finds itself facing off against established rivals like the Land Rover Defender 110, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Audi Q7, BMW X5 xDrive40d, and even the upper-spec Ford Everest Platinum.
What sets the GX apart is its unapologetically tough, body-on-frame construction paired with Lexus-grade refinement — a combination few competitors can match. It shares its GA-F platform with the Land Cruiser 300, yet brings a uniquely premium edge with standard features like massaging leather seats, advanced off-road driving aids, and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system. Under the bonnet, the GX 550 packs a powerful 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine that delivers 260kW and 650Nm of torque through a 10-speed automatic gearbox. This places it among the more powerful options in its class, with superior torque output compared to the V6 variants of the Defender and Prado.
However, unlike some rivals that offer plug-in hybrid or diesel alternatives, the GX is strictly petrol-powered – which may deter fuel-conscious buyers in this segment. On-road comfort, off-road prowess, and a meticulously appointed cabin give the GX a unique selling point, especially in the Overtrail grade, which caters to serious off-roaders with features like Multi-Terrain Select, crawl control, and Electronic-Kinetic Dynamic Suspension.
While the GX impresses with its capability and build quality, its high price and limited drivetrain options could make some buyers look twice at more versatile rivals. Still, for those looking for prize reliability, adventure-ready durability, and luxury in equal measure, the new GX arrives as a compelling, characterful option.
