Lexus has officially pulled the wraps off the all-new GX 550 in South Africa, with pricing kicking off at R1,766,000 for the Overtrail 3.5T and topping out at R1,829,000 for the luxuriously appointed SE 3.5T. With this bold newcomer, Lexus aims to shake up the premium off-road SUV segment by delivering a potent mix of rugged utility, refined comfort, and cutting-edge technology. Unapologetically muscular, the GX 550 rides on Lexus’ robust GA-F body-on-frame platform, combining serious off-road mettle with the sort of upscale finishes and features that urban drivers crave. Whether you're navigating Sandton’s traffic or charting a course through the Kalahari, the GX 550 is built to handle it all with composure—and serious style. Global Heritage, Local Debut Though new to South African roads, the GX badge has long been a staple in North America and parts of Eurasia. Its DNA is rooted in the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, fused with Lexus’ signature luxury DNA. The first-gen GX 470 debuted in 2002, followed by the GX 460 in 2009, each evolution sharpening both capability and comfort. Now, South African drivers finally get a taste of the latest evolution—with more power, sharper tech, and an even bolder look. Design That Demands Attention The new GX doesn’t whisper luxury—it announces it. A squared-off bonnet, wider track, and aggressive stance give the SUV a commanding presence, while a signature Lexus spindle grille and sleek LED lighting round out the modern aesthetic. Practical touches like elevated headlamps and cooling ducts for the radiator reinforce its trail-ready purpose. Inside, Lexus’ famed craftsmanship shines through. The Tazuna-inspired cockpit wraps the driver in an intuitive control zone, while a 14-inch touchscreen and fully digital display keep things high-tech. The GX is offered in both five- and seven-seat layouts, making it equally adept at family road trips and solo expeditions. Performance to Match Its Looks Under the bonnet, a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 engine produces a brawny 260kW and 650Nm of torque—paired with a silky 10-speed automatic gearbox. Whether you're towing, climbing, or cruising, this powertrain doesn’t break a sweat. Lexus engineers have also tuned the suspension and chassis for a composed on-road experience without compromising off-road agility. Built for the Rough Stuff The GX 550 is no poser. Advanced systems like Electric Power Steering (EPS), Multi-Terrain Select, and E-KDSS (Electronic-Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System) allow it to claw its way across just about anything you throw at it. From loose sand to rocky inclines, the GX is engineered to go where other premium SUVs fear to tread. The Overtrail variant ups the ante with a 20mm wider stance, 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain rubber, reinforced underbody protection, and a six-mode terrain management system. It’s the go-anywhere grade for buyers who want their luxury wrapped in dust and grit. Luxury Doesn’t Take a Back Seat The SE grade, on the other hand, leans into the luxury ethos. A 7-seater with semi-aniline leather, massaging front seats, a panoramic view monitor, and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, this model is tailored for long-distance comfort without sacrificing capability. Even entry and exit are simplified with auto-retracting side steps and a hands-free power tailgate. Safety and Tech, Lexus Style The GX is loaded with Lexus Safety System+, offering Pre-Collision Warning, Lane Departure Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control, and more. Active noise control, aerodynamic body design, and enhanced rigidity all contribute to a surprisingly serene cabin—even at highway speeds. Colour Me Impressed Lexus didn’t hold back on exterior flair either. The SE is available in exclusive Mercury Grey, while the Overtrail Bi-Tone models come in adventurous combinations like Desert Moonlight and Titanium Sonic, all paired with a striking black roof and mirror caps. The Overtrail Ethos Part of a wider Overtrail movement within Lexus, the GX is built to encourage outdoor exploration without giving up the creature comforts. It's a philosophy that blends sustainability, adventure, and high-end mobility—a reflection of Lexus’ shifting priorities toward the discerning, experience-driven buyer. Final Word The all-new GX 550 lands in South Africa as both a powerhouse off-roader and a plush highway cruiser. For those who want a premium SUV that can climb mountains during the week and valet park at a five-star hotel on the weekend, the GX brings that rare duality in full force. It’s not just a vehicle—it’s a lifestyle statement on wheels.