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Lexus GX460 on wish list

It's based on the Toyota Prado platform but has a 4.6-litre V8 petrol engine from the Lexus LS460

It's all subject to availability and whether or not Lexus thinks there are buyers here. Take the Lexus GX460 medium large SUV for example, currently only available in left hand drive but certainly on the wish list for local consumption.

PRADO PLATFORM

It's based on the Toyota Prado platform but has a 4.6-litre V8 petrol engine from the Lexus LS460. Smaller than the Lexus LX570, GX460 is a seven seater with full off road credentials and a swag of driver aids for safety and negotiating various environments.

Using a constant all wheel drive system, the GX boasts a Torsen rear diff that also has an electronic locking mechanism. GX has hill start and hill descent control, smart stop (automatic braking in an emergency) and is built on a ladder type frame. It's a weighty beast at 2326kg in the base model, Premium ads a few kilos due to additional luxury kit.

V8 POWER

The V8 is good for 225kW/450Nm and consumes petrol at a rate of 13.8-litres/100km. It drives through a six-speed sequential automatic transmission. The base model is fully equipped with goodies like smart access, remote keyless entry and push button start, dual zone climate control, a moon roof, electrochromatic rear view mirror, cruise and leather to name a few.

The Premium gets (a lot) more. Ride is controlled by a supple double wishbone front suspension and four link rear. Air suspension is an option. Safety is well addressed with 10 air bags, stability control, surround cameras and tyre pressure monitor all included.

THE PRICE

For this, you'll pay around US$54,000. But in Australia if it becomes available... anyone's guess.