Lexus GX hybrid to be fast-tracked

The introduction of Australia’s first new-vehicle CO2 reduction standard will expediate the local release of the hybrid version of the new Lexus GX.

Due to be launched in three different specifications priced from $116,000 by mid-year, the all-new large luxury off-road SUV will initially be available only with a 3.4-litre twin-turbo petrol V6.

However, a more efficient 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol/electric hybrid powertrain option will likely join the range soon than previously planned because of the introduction of the federal government’s 2025 New Vehicle Efficiency Standard.

While Lexus Australia will have to wait its turn, chief executive John Pappas said it would be doing its best to gain supplies of the GX hybrid.

“We are not getting the hybrid [from launch] because the hybrid is getting prioritised for China and then after that it’s looking like it’s going to be the USA,” he explained.

“Those [countries] both have fuel-efficiency standards and we don’t.

[But] it’s around the corner [for Australia] so that enables us to put our hand up for the hybrid powertrain once it’s available.

“The mandatory standard is great because it gives us access to more product and better product.

“We won’t be able to get that [GX] until that all starts to go through.”

The petrol V6 version of the GX makes 260kW/650Nm, drives via a 10-speed auto and claims a 13.5L/100km fuel consumption average in the USA.

Fitted to the GX’s sister vehicle, the new 250 Series Toyota Prado, in the USA, the hybrid drivetrain makes 243kW/430Nm, drives via an eight-speed auto and averages 10.2L/100km.

The Prado will launch with a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel in Australia but may soon also add the hybrid drivetrain.

Unlike the Prado, Pappas indicated the hybrid version of the GX was not going to make it to Australia in 2025.

“It will be China first and then the USA and we will be one of the markets putting our hand up.

“But the other part of this is it’s got to be able to meet customer needs… we’ve got to make sure that is the case before we bring it in.”

Meanwhile, Lexus Australia has played down predictions the V6-powered Lexus GX 550 will be a sell-out due to more demand than supply.

As we reported in February, Lexus Australia expects supply of about 1250 GX 550s in the first 12 months but had already received more than 1000 expressions of interests, which has now translated to about 500 orders.

“We are not sold out,” confirmed Pappas.

“We are launching it in June and right now we have over 500 orders on GX, so it’s doing very well.

“The interest has been very, very strong on GX, which is great.”

More orders are expected between now and June, but it’s clear Aussies keen on the new GX won’t be forced to endure the two-year wait times being inflicted on Lexus LX customers.

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