LEXUS

Lexus TX: the new member of the premium family of the Japanese brand

With an already rich line of SUV models made up of vehicles such as the Lexus UX, NX and RX, the Japanese premium brand intends to continue supplying this family with new members. One of the most recent to be added to the lineup was the 100% electric Lexus RZ crossover, which was followed by the Lexus LBX, with another novelty more aimed at the US market whose size is even larger than the current Lexus RX. The objective is none other than to compete in this club of luxury models, which currently features rivals such as the BMW X7 and the Mercedes-Benz GLS.

Under the name Lexus TX, the premium brother of the Toyota Highlander was presented, that is, the one that is currently Toyota's largest SUV. In this way, the Japanese brand intends to offer a model with up to 7 seats that covers the space of the extinct Lexus RX L with three rows of seats, which did not have continuity with the change of generation, with a more dynamic design that attracts a younger audience.

Thus, the Lexus TX prioritizes aerodynamic performance and this can be seen when discovering a new 'unified grille' at the front. The brand's designers have chosen to unite the optical groups with a subtle decorative molding, while at the rear an L-shaped light bar extends in width. Depending on the finish, the car will be offered in one of seven available exterior colors, with wheels that can reach 22 inches.

Inside, Lexus offers a 12.3-inch screen for a wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible multimedia system and a head-up display. Customers can opt for an optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, featuring up to seven USB ports and three power outlets. For the second row, individual ergonomic seats are offered, with a pull-out center console, or a split-folding seat in 60/40 proportions. Regarding the trunk, with the two rows folded down, it manages to offer an impressive 2,746 liters of capacity.

Based on Toyota's GA-K platform, this new model uses the Japanese company's famous hybrid technology. Specifically, it will be offered with three different engines, two of them electrified, with the entry level being a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine (TX 350) that generates 275 hp of power and 430 Nm of maximum torque.

On top will be the TX 500h, with its 2.4-liter hybrid powertrain that offers a total of 366 hp and 554 Nm, associated with the F Sport Performance finish. The highest performance option will be the TX 550h, supported by a hybrid system whose main block is a 3.5-liter V6, offering a combined power of 406 hp and a range in purely electric mode of 55 kilometers.

Available in Standard, Premium, Luxury and F Sport Performance trims, the Lexus TX will be manufactured at the renovated Princeton, Indiana plant. As mentioned before, the manufacturer designed this SUV specifically for the North American market, with the first units available later this year. The TX 350 and TX 500h versions will go on sale in the last quarter and the TX 550h will hit dealers later. Its price is expected to start from 50,000 dollars.

Autonews