News / 12 March 2025 / Albert du Toit

Prado-based Lexus GX – South African pricing and specifications revealed

The new Lexus GX is hitting South African dealers before the end of the month with two specifications on offer.

The entry-level model is the burly Overtrail which sells for a minimum of R1,766,000 while the top-spec option is the premium SE that goes for R1,829,000.

The GX is the half-sibling of the Toyota Prado as it shares the same platform, often being referred to as the “luxury Prado.”

It is the first time the nameplate has ever been on sale in South Africa, as it has thus far only been limited to North American and Eurasian markets.

What you get

Both GX variants are equipped with a 3.5-litre, V6, turbocharged petrol mill linked to an automatic 10-speed gearbox.

The power unit produces a heady 260kW and 650Nm which is sent to all four corners via a permanent four-wheel-drive system with Eco, Normal, Sport, Sport S+, Comfort, and Custom modes.

The generous output allows the GX to accelerate to 100km/h in a rather brisk 7.0 seconds despite its 2.5-tonne heft, though it comes at the price of fuel consumption which is pegged at a manufacturer-claimed 12.3l/100km.

Being pitched as premium adventure SUV, the Lexus boasts rather aggressive approach and departure angles of 27 and 22 degrees, respectively.

Ground clearance, however, comes in at a not-that-outstanding 220mm.

As the more off-road-oriented of the two, the GX Overtrail additionally boasts a rear differential lock as well as Lexus’ Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (e-KDSS).

The e-KDSS can automatically disconnect the suspension stabilizer bars for increased off-road articulation, and re-engage them for better on-road handling.

Also included in this model is downhill-assist control and crawl control, as well as the multi-terrain select tool that brings Snow, Mud, Sand, Dirt, and Auto drive settings.

The front tread of the Overtail is wider, too, measuring 1,687mm compared to the SE’s 1,667mm.

Styling-wise, there are marked differences between the two GX derivatives on offer.

The more affordable entry comes with model-specific 18-inch aluminium wheels, standard side steps, and black mirrors and door handles; whereas the flagship sees flashier 22-inch rims, retractable side steps, and colour-coded mirrors and door handles.

Looking inside, the distinctions are equally as stark.

Perhaps most importantly, the Overtrail provides seating for five passengers only, including the driver, whereas the SE can accommodate up to seven occupants.

Furthermore, the Overtrail features resin door scuffplates, an electrochromatic rear-view mirror, synthetic leather upholstery, and a tilt-and-slide moonroof.

The SE, on the other hand, sports illuminated scuffplates, a completely digital rear-view mirror, semi-aniline leather seating, and a fixed panoramic sunroof with dimming.

Differences aside, buyers of either GX versions are sure to be satisfied with the generous level of creature comforts afforded by both.

Standard kit in the high-end SUVs include automatic LED lighting with daytime running lights, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry and start, an electric driver seat, front-seat heating and ventilation, dual-zone climate control, a digital driver’s display, a heads-up display, a fridge, and an electric tailgate.

A 14-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and integrated navigation is also included, as is a wireless device charger.

This is on top of adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, 360-degree cameras, front and rear parking sensors, lane-trace assist, rear cross-traffic alert with braking, hill-assist control, and trailer sway control.

Apart from these fitments, the SE also boasts adaptive high-beam functionality, a heated steering wheel, massaging front seats, second-row seat heating, a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo, and hands-free tailgate operation.