Hard-core Lexus GX render gives us an unofficial insight as to what we could expect from Toyota’s next off-road hero
The almost inevitable next-generation 2024 Toyota Prado GR Sport has been indirectly previewed in a pair of unofficial renders that imagine what a hard-core overlanding version of the 2024 Lexus GX would look like, and we have to say our appetites have been wet.
Following on from the hotly anticipated reveal of the all-new luxury off-roader, Kolesa.ru digital designer Nikita Chuiko has mocked up what he thinks a more capable GX variant might look like, and the short answer is ballsy.
Clearly taking inspiration from the recipe used to cook up both the Toyota LandCruiser GR Sport full-size SUV and the upcoming Toyota HiLux GR Sport ute, the rendered GX hero rides significantly higher than standard and rolls on a much more aggressive wheel and tyre combination.
Digital image: Nikita Chuiko
The front bumper has been replaced by an integrated steel bar housing an in-built winch, contrasting red towing eyelets, additional LED lighting and heavy-duty skid plate, while the front and rear tracks look to have been tastefully widened.
Most of these modifications have been applied to the rear of the vehicle as well, including the integrated winch.
LED zone lighting is present on the leading a trailing edges of the GX’s roof, upon which we find a heavy-duty roof rack and folding tent.
Chuiko hasn’t specifically presented any mechanical changes to the new GX’s overall package beyond the raised suspension, but odds are the GR or GR Sport-badged Prado will be fitted with a spring and damper tune and be fitted with an additional locking differential at the very least.
Details surrounding the new Prado’s powertrain are largely a case of he-said/she-said at the moment, however, the inclusion of the Lexus LX’s 3.5-litre twin-turbo petrol V6 – plus the TNGA-F ladder-frame platform – tells us there’s room in the engine bay for the 300 Series’ 3.3-litre twin-turbo diesel V6.
We’re not sure a V6-powered Prado GR Sport would offer any more grunt than the standard V6 variants, if they eventuate, but the new HiLux GR Sport suggests a power bump could be on the cards for a four-cylinder version.
The next-generation Toyota Prado is expected to debut in September and launch Down Under in 2024 – most likely without a dedicated off-road hero to begin with.
Digital image: Nikita Chuiko
Join the conversation at our Facebook page Or email us at [email protected]
Keyword: All-new Toyota Prado GR Sport previewed