News Roundup: Lexus GX, TX, New Volvo EV, GM gets Tesla plug

New Lexus GX

Lexus has just revealed the third-generation GX, the first of two big SUV reveals for the brand this week. The GX 550 gets seriously boxy styling and a new twist on the company's signature spindle grille. As before, the GX is a body-on-frame SUV, this time built on the same chassis as the larger LX. The new platform allows towing up to 8,000 lbs. GX 550 means a 3.4L twin-turbo V6 and a 10-speed automatic. 4x4 is standard along with a locking Torsen limited-slip centre differential. The new Overtrail adds an electronic locking rear. Adaptive suspension is optional. Lexus has added a new Overtrail model aimed at Overlanders. It includes multi-terrain select, crawl control, and other off-road features. The 2024 Lexus GX is set to go on sale early next year.

New Lexus TX



Lexus has just launched a new big crossover called the TX. The 2024 Lexus TX is a three-row model that also becomes the brand's second PHEV. Based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, the TX has room for seven carry-on bags behind the rearmost seats and enough room for adults in all three rows. The standard engine will be a 2.4L turbo-four, and there will be a hybrid system using that engine called the TX 500h. At the top of the line, a 3.5L V6 is paired with a battery that delivers 53 km of electric range in the TX 550h+. The TX will offer a large centre screen and tech features like a standard digital key. The TX 350 and TX 500h models go on sale this fall, the PHEV "at a later date."

Volvo reveals smallest and quickest new EV



Volvo revealed a new small electric crossover that will also be its quickest vehicle to date. The Volvo EX30 also has the lowest carbon footprint of any vehicle the company has ever built thanks to changes throughout the entire production process of the vehicle. The EX30 will be offered as a single motor Extended Range model that promises 445 km between charges and the 422 hp Twin Motor Performance that can hit 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds. On the extensive list of safety assists is a new version of Park Pilot Assist that can even handle parking along a curve or fishbone-style spaces.

Mazda Suna edition



Mazda has just announced new special editions of the Mazda3, MX-30, CX-30, and CX-5. It's called the Suna Edition, which is Japanese for Sand and is based around the exclusive Zircon Sand Metallic paint. Inside, the cars will have terracotta seats with black suede inserts and gunmetal accents. All three gas models will come with Mazda's 2.5L turbo-four that makes up to 256 hp. These follow in the footsteps of Mazda's Kuro edition, which introduced Polymetal Grey paint and Garnet red leather inside. Pricing for the Suna Edition models will follow.

GM to get Tesla plug



General Motors has announced it will be integrating the Tesla Supercharger plug into its new EVs starting in 2025. This comes just weeks after Ford announced similar plans. GM says the collaboration will give GM EV drivers access to 12,000 Supercharger stations to start and brings the total number of compatible stations to more than 146,000. Starting next year, GM EV owners will be able to use the stations via an adaptor. In 2025, the models will have a direct plug for the stations. The Supercharger stations will also be added to GM's in-vehicle and mobile apps to allow drivers to find and pay for charging sessions.