The Lexus GX has landed in South Africa — and it’s already rewriting the script for luxury off-roaders in the local market. Within just a month of its official launch, the 2025 GX has set a new sales benchmark for Lexus South Africa, recording 63 units sold — the highest ever monthly sales figure for any Lexus model in Mzansi.
So, what’s behind this sudden surge in popularity? Is the new GX just another plush SUV, or does it offer genuine 4×4 grit to match its premium polish? We dive into the details of this rugged luxury SUV that’s already turning heads on South African roads — and trails.
What is the Lexus GX and Why Does It Matter?
At its core, the Lexus GX is a full-size luxury SUV that shares its platform with the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. But make no mistake — this isn’t just a rebadged Prado with chrome accents. Lexus has reimagined the GX to strike a rare balance between rugged off-road prowess and first-class comfort.
Unlike the utilitarian approach of the Prado, the GX is designed for drivers who demand both performance and prestige. It’s also one of the few premium SUVs in South Africa that comes with proper off-road hardware — including low-range gearing, Multi-Terrain-Select modes, and advanced diff-lock systems.
Many local SUV buyers looking for adventure-ready, family-capable vehicles have had to choose between comfort and capability. The GX offers both. If you’re on the hunt for second-hand alternatives that balance similar strengths, don’t miss out on the extensive listings at auto24.co.za, where 4×4-ready models from Toyota, Ford, and even pre-owned Land Rover Defenders are available.
Powertrain & Performance: Twin-Turbo Muscle for the Long Haul
Under the bonnet, the 2025 Lexus GX is fitted with a powerful 3.4-litre twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine that delivers 260 kW and 650 Nm of torque. This powerplant is no stranger to high performance — it’s a slightly detuned version of the engine used in the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 and the Dakar-spec Hilux.
The engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic gearbox that ensures silky-smooth gear changes whether you’re crawling through sand dunes or cruising on the highway.
- Fuel Consumption: While performance is a key strength, efficiency isn’t its strong suit. Expect real-world consumption of 11–12 L/100 km on highways, and up to 16 L/100 km in stop-start city conditions.
- Fuel Tank Limitation: The GX’s 80-litre fuel tank is noticeably smaller than the Prado’s optional dual-tank setup, limiting range to around 450 km. This could be a drawback for long-haul overlanders — unless Lexus introduces a hybrid model down the line.
SE vs Overtrail: Two Versions for Different Lifestyles
South African buyers can choose between two key GX models: the GX 550 SE and the GX 550 Overtrail. Each is geared towards a different kind of driver.
Lexus GX 550 SE – The Luxury Tourer
Price: R1 829 000
The SE model is designed for families and urban drivers who prioritize comfort, tech, and passenger capacity.
- 7-seater layout with power-folding third-row seats
- 22-inch alloy wheels
- Electrically deploying side steps
- Mark Levinson 21-speaker premium sound system
- Road-focused suspension setup
This version still includes off-road capabilities like low-range gearing but lacks the more hardcore features of the Overtrail.
Lexus GX 550 Overtrail – Built for the Wild
Price: From R1 766 000
If your weekends involve gravel roads, mountain passes, and camping under the stars, this is your GX.
- Rugged body styling with roof rails and static side sills
- 18-inch wheels fitted with off-road tyres
- 5-seater layout for extra cargo space
- Multi-Terrain-Select with modes for Mud, Rock, and Sand
- Centre and rear diff-locks, Crawl Control, and a disconnecting anti-roll bar
Also available are the Overtrail Bi-Tone and Overtrail Off-Road variants for those wanting added exclusivity or off-road capability out of the box.
A Look Inside: Premium Comfort Meets Practical Design
The GX’s cabin is everything you’d expect from a Lexus — plush, well-built, and filled with tech. Lexus has dramatically improved the infotainment interface compared to older models. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto now work seamlessly, making the 14-inch central touchscreen much more usable.
- Seats & Storage: In the SE, the third-row folds flat at the touch of a button, and the second-row seats flip and tumble manually for additional loading space.
- Digital Dash: While the digital driver display is functional, it’s less intuitive than the configurable screens found in German competitors like Audi or BMW.
- Build Quality: Fit and finish are excellent throughout, with leather upholstery, soft-touch materials, and Lexus’ signature attention to detail.
And the best part? Everything comes standard. There are no pricey option packages — what you see on the brochure is what you get.
Looking for practical SUV ownership tips? Read more here on how to care for your SUV’s suspension, electronics, and drivetrain during tough seasonal changes.
Is the Lexus GX a Serious Off-Roader?
Absolutely. During the local media launch in the Eastern Cape, the GX impressed on a technical off-road course. From deep ruts to steep descents and muddy climbs, the Overtrail tackled it all with poise and confidence.
Key off-road features include:
- Multi-Terrain-Select: Adjusts traction and throttle response for different surfaces.
- Crawl Control: Acts like off-road cruise control, managing throttle and brakes on tricky terrain.
- E-KDSS (Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System): Disconnects anti-roll bars for better articulation when off-road, and reconnects them for better stability on-road.
With its luxury leanings and hardcore capabilities, the Lexus GX is arguably the most well-rounded luxury 4×4 on sale in South Africa today.
Pricing and After-Sales Peace of Mind
Here’s a quick breakdown of the Lexus GX pricing in SA (April 2025):
- GX 550 Overtrail (5-seater): R1 766 000
- GX 550 Overtrail Bi-Tone (5-seater): R1 776 000
- GX 550 SE (7-seater): R1 829 000
- GX 550 Overtrail Off-Road (5-seater): R1 867 000
All GX models are sold with a 7-year/100,000 km warranty and maintenance plan, and service intervals are spaced every 10,000 km.
Considering the total cost of ownership, that’s a compelling package when you compare it to rivals like the Defender, Discovery, or the more road-focused BMW X7.
Final Verdict: The Lexus GX Is Poised to Disrupt the SA SUV Market
With muscular performance, genuine off-road ability, and a luxurious cabin, the 2025 Lexus GX is not just another niche premium SUV. It’s a bold statement — and one that clearly resonates with South African drivers who want more than just badge appeal.
It’s comfortable enough for Gauteng’s urban sprawl, and capable enough for the Baviaanskloof. Whether you’re towing a boat to the coast or exploring gravel roads in Limpopo, the GX is a trustworthy, stylish, and highly functional companion.
For more news, reviews, and expert travel guides, visit imotonews.co.za — South Africa’s trusted source for all things motoring.
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