The present trend shows a rising demand for three-row luxury crossovers such as the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class. While Lexus has predominantly focused on body-on-frame SUVs like the GX and LX, which are more geared towards off-road adventures, a new report from Auto News suggests that a three-row Lexus TX crossover might become available by mid-2023.
The report mentions the development of a three-row Lexus TX alongside the upcoming Toyota Grand Highlander. While Lexus has not yet officially confirmed the TX model, Toyota, its parent company, hinted at the launch of a three-row Lexus SUV in a statement last year.
Last year, Toyota announced an investment of $803 million in its Princeton, Indiana plant to introduce two entirely new three-row SUVs specifically designed for the active Gen Y American Family. Among these new models, one will be branded as a Toyota, while the other will mark the entrance of the Lexus lineup in the Toyota Indiana facility.
Lexus LX 600
Lexus dealers have expressed a strong interest in a spacious luxury crossover that veers away from the rugged body-on-frame structure. The current RX 350L model offers a longer wheelbase than its standard counterpart but fails to match the cabin space and seating capacity of a true three-row crossover.
Dealers are eagerly anticipating the introduction of the Lexus TX model. John Iacono, the chairman of the Lexus National Dealer Advisory Council, emphasized the importance of the TX in enhancing the current Lexus lineup with a more spacious and versatile offering compared to the RX L.
Iacono believes that the TX will appeal to younger buyers in their 40s and 50s who seek additional space for their families without the rugged qualities of larger GX and LX models. Toyota’s plans suggest that the forthcoming Lexus three-row crossover may accommodate up to eight passengers, indicating the potential inclusion of three-passenger bench seats in both the second and third rows. There is also speculation about a hybrid variant, inspired by the production of the Highlander Hybrid at the same Indiana factory.
A three-row crossover is a logical step for Lexus to compete with its rivals efficiently, given the high demand for such vehicles in the market. By introducing the TX model, Lexus aims to close the gap with luxury sales leaders like BMW. While the LX and GX are commendable SUVs, their origins in the Toyota Land Cruiser chassis limit their potential as luxury crossovers. It will be intriguing to witness how Lexus leverages increased interior space and comfort in their new offering.
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