2010 Lexus GX460: Mega Photo Album and Pricing of Lexus'... Re-Grilled Toyota Land Cruiser

Sans a new grille, some minor styling/trim enhancements inside and out, and most importantly, a V8 engine, the new 2010 GX460 is in essence the U.S.-spec version of Toyota's 2010 Land Cruiser that was recently launched in Europe and other markets. Featuring a standard 7-seat configuration, Lexus positions the new GX between the brand's LX 570 premium luxury utility vehicle and unibody-based RX models.

In the States, the GX470's replacement is fitted with a new 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of peak torque, and coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift.

It comes equipped with standard full-time four-wheel drive using an electronically controlled transfer case and a TORSEN torque-sensing center differential that distributes power 40:60 under most driving conditions and changes the ratio as needed based on steering input and wheel slip.

The new Lexus GX also offers a low gear range for off-road driving while the Japanese automaker claims that it retains the same 6,500-lb. towing capacity as the 263HP GX470 offered,

According to the automaker, the new GX460 returns an EPA-estimated 15 mpg city, 20 mpg highway and 17 mpg combined (2009 GX 470: 15 mpg).

For the first time, the GX will be offered in two trim levels, with the base carrying an MSRP of $51,970 and the higher-spec Premium, $56,765. To that you'll have to add delivery, processing and handling fee of $875.

The new GX will make its first public outing in North America at the Los Angeles Auto Show in December with sales starting towards the end of the month.