AutoTrends: Lexus ready to roll out proper three-row crossover, TX

When Lexus dealerships before 2014 begged automaker to build a three-row crossover to slot above the RX and below the body-on-frame GX, Lexus responded immediately with the RX L.

The RX L is slightly elongated RX with a cramped third row but it was not the kind of success Lexus dealers had expected.

This has prompted Lexus to file a trademark for the name “TX.” And the TX is said to be coming as the first dedicated Lexus three-row crossover.

Automotive News says the TX as a proper Lexus three-row crossover is underway, quoting a Lexus source as saying that the TX will be based on another rumoured model, the Toyota Grand Highlander. The Grand Highlander name was trademarked by Toyota, and will reportedly slot between the Highlander and Sequoia. Both the Toyota and Lexus are slated for production at Toyota’s plant in Indiana.

The TX and Grand Highlander are expected to arrive in mid-2023, meaning they could be revealed later this year.

Toyota will hold its annual HQ Confidential event – where it reveals new Toyota and Lexus products – from the end of May through the beginning of June. The insider source says the Grand Highlander will arrive first, followed by the TX around six months later.

Toyota has typically declined to comment on either product, though the Indiana plant is currently undergoing an $803 million upgrade to build new models.

The Japanese automaker has confirmed that the two new vehicles built in Indiana will get a semi-autonomous driving system with hands-free capability. This is likely referencing Toyota/Lexus Teammate, which is currently available on the Mirai and LS 500h.

Toyota also confirmed both models would seat up to eight passengers, meaning second-row captain’s chairs will likely be optional.

The TX will be offered in petrol and hybrid forms, judging by the trademarks for the names “TX 350” and “TX 500h”.

The TX 350 should get the same 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder found in the NX 350, while the TX 500h could be the first Lexus to use the turbocharged engine in combination with electric motors, as the naturally aspirated setup in the NX 350h would not be potent enough to support the larger TX.

The Grand Highlander is projected to arrive with similar powertrain options producing slightly less power.