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Considering that it was originally launched in late 2009 as a 2010 model, the GX is now six years old and in typical Lexus fashion, that means it’s close to some type of life cycle update (in theory). While vehicles like the upcoming LS and LC might steal more of enthusiasts’ attention, I think the GX will be one of the most interesting vehicles to watch as it nears the end of its current life cycle.
Why? With endless rumors over the last few years about a three-row unibody CUV and the media-reported “impending death” of the GX in its current state, Lexus’ handling of the new GX will have a significant impact on the lineup.
A few things to consider:
With the success of the current model, I do believe that there is at least one more generation of BOF construction that’s “doable” for the GX. When refreshed, Lexus added a downmarket version with NuLuxe interior trimmings and fewer standard features… but there’s an opportunity to extend the GX’s price point down a little further without necessarily jeopardizing its value.
How? For starters, while full-time 4WD is standard right now, it may not be completely necessary in many markets across the country. Of course, this feature lends itself to the GX’s tough, off-road demeanor, but no doubt that there is a sizable chunk of GX buyers who simply want a three-row Lexus vehicle and don’t need that do-anything, go-anywhere capability. Coming standard with 2WD/RWD would certainly be an option for buyers like these.
Another option would be offering a base-level V6 engine. The current ‘ute’s 301hp V8 has already seen its best days with modern V6s capable of as much horsepower and better MPG. If Lexus could offer a base V6 with 280-320hp, that would be more than adequate for most buyers. This would also open up an opportunity for a larger V8 to be fitted to the GX, possibly a version of the 383hp 5.7L V8 in the LX.
2WD, 4WD, V6, V8… that triples the number of GX models from what we have now and creates more of a spread across MSRPs between the RX and LX.
While everything here is hypothetical, what I’d like to see is this:
2017 GX “400” and GX 570
Body-On-Frame Construction
What I think we’ll see is a refreshed exterior and updated interior, similar to the 2016 LX update, and an 8AT that replaces the current 6AT. I can only hope that Lexus has plans to bump up the horsepower or swap in a new engine, but the company has been very conservative with engine updates over the last few years.
If a three-row CUV is indeed in the works, I'd like to see the GX elevated a bit in the lineup - standard 4WD, standard V8 (as it is now) - with more luxury features. That hypothetical CUV could occupy the $50-65k price point, and the GX could move upmarket to something like $70-$80k, nicely bridging the gap with the LX at the top.
What are your thoughts? When do you think we'll see news of the next GX, and what should we expect?
Why? With endless rumors over the last few years about a three-row unibody CUV and the media-reported “impending death” of the GX in its current state, Lexus’ handling of the new GX will have a significant impact on the lineup.
A few things to consider:
1) With its 2014 refresh, GX sales doubled and it has reliably sold about 2,000 units a month. That’s no small feat and a significant volume for a vehicle that’s offered in one drive type, with one engine, when the entire class has moved to unibody construction. Might Lexus see a case for keeping it body on frame?
2) Rumors suggest that late next year, the 4Runner – GX’s closest relative – will receive a heavy refresh along the lines of the 2016 Land Cruiser and LX 570, and 2014 Tundra. If this is indeed true, a second refresh for the GX could certainly be in order although one would have to hope for an updated powertrain – be it a revised V8, 8 speed automatic or both.
3) Lexus execs have been clear in saying that the GX is a serious cash cow for the company. With a chassis and basic architecture shared with Toyota’s global Land Cruiser/Prado platform, the only real investment is in making it a luxury ‘ute with an upmarket engine, wood, leather and sound insulation. Is it too profitable for Lexus to walk away from this model right now? Possibly.
4) Is there room for a three-row GX and another three-row crossover? That remains to be seen, but I wouldn’t rule it out. Perhaps the GX soldiers on as a BOF, capable ‘ute and another vehicle is added to the lineup for more plebian on-road duties.
2) Rumors suggest that late next year, the 4Runner – GX’s closest relative – will receive a heavy refresh along the lines of the 2016 Land Cruiser and LX 570, and 2014 Tundra. If this is indeed true, a second refresh for the GX could certainly be in order although one would have to hope for an updated powertrain – be it a revised V8, 8 speed automatic or both.
3) Lexus execs have been clear in saying that the GX is a serious cash cow for the company. With a chassis and basic architecture shared with Toyota’s global Land Cruiser/Prado platform, the only real investment is in making it a luxury ‘ute with an upmarket engine, wood, leather and sound insulation. Is it too profitable for Lexus to walk away from this model right now? Possibly.
4) Is there room for a three-row GX and another three-row crossover? That remains to be seen, but I wouldn’t rule it out. Perhaps the GX soldiers on as a BOF, capable ‘ute and another vehicle is added to the lineup for more plebian on-road duties.
With the success of the current model, I do believe that there is at least one more generation of BOF construction that’s “doable” for the GX. When refreshed, Lexus added a downmarket version with NuLuxe interior trimmings and fewer standard features… but there’s an opportunity to extend the GX’s price point down a little further without necessarily jeopardizing its value.
How? For starters, while full-time 4WD is standard right now, it may not be completely necessary in many markets across the country. Of course, this feature lends itself to the GX’s tough, off-road demeanor, but no doubt that there is a sizable chunk of GX buyers who simply want a three-row Lexus vehicle and don’t need that do-anything, go-anywhere capability. Coming standard with 2WD/RWD would certainly be an option for buyers like these.
Another option would be offering a base-level V6 engine. The current ‘ute’s 301hp V8 has already seen its best days with modern V6s capable of as much horsepower and better MPG. If Lexus could offer a base V6 with 280-320hp, that would be more than adequate for most buyers. This would also open up an opportunity for a larger V8 to be fitted to the GX, possibly a version of the 383hp 5.7L V8 in the LX.
2WD, 4WD, V6, V8… that triples the number of GX models from what we have now and creates more of a spread across MSRPs between the RX and LX.
While everything here is hypothetical, what I’d like to see is this:
2017 GX “400” and GX 570
Body-On-Frame Construction
GX 400
Base V6 with 280-320hp, 275-300 lb-ft of torque
Standard RWD
Optional 4X4
GX 570
Uplevel V8 with 390-400hp, 400-420lb-ft of torque
Standard 4X4
Base V6 with 280-320hp, 275-300 lb-ft of torque
Standard RWD
Optional 4X4
GX 570
Uplevel V8 with 390-400hp, 400-420lb-ft of torque
Standard 4X4
What I think we’ll see is a refreshed exterior and updated interior, similar to the 2016 LX update, and an 8AT that replaces the current 6AT. I can only hope that Lexus has plans to bump up the horsepower or swap in a new engine, but the company has been very conservative with engine updates over the last few years.
If a three-row CUV is indeed in the works, I'd like to see the GX elevated a bit in the lineup - standard 4WD, standard V8 (as it is now) - with more luxury features. That hypothetical CUV could occupy the $50-65k price point, and the GX could move upmarket to something like $70-$80k, nicely bridging the gap with the LX at the top.
What are your thoughts? When do you think we'll see news of the next GX, and what should we expect?
