Lexus develops its first luxury Pickup Truck

The auto industry is probably the most competitive in the world. Each year more different models have been presented. Depending on the current trends, different segments become more or less popular. The only vehicle category that always has positive trend is pickup segment. For this year light-trucks have noted grow from 4.7 percent. These facts motivate serious companies to get involved in the competition.

It is not enough anymore for a truck to be powerful and durable. Trends are showing that people are willing to pay more money than before to enjoy luxury too. German giant, Mercedes realized that and has already presented its X-Class model. Ford and GM also benefit from that with their models F-150 Limited and Sierra Denali. And now, Toyota is planning to join the race with its premium brand Lexus.

Lexus Pickup Truck – Possible Exterior and Interior Design

From a technical point of view, production of the Lexus Pickup Truck should not present any difficulties for Toyota Motor Corporation. The new model will be based on a Hilux pickup. This model has already proved its reliability and performance around the globe. Frontend and side curves will probably be borrowed from LX 570 SUV. The honeycomb air inlet will be matched with familiar Lexus headlights. The daily LED lighting will additionally increase the aggressive appearance of the new model. The Lexus badge will be set in the middle of the grille.

The interior will be completely borrowed from Lexus SUV lineup. Combination of the high-tech features and leather and real wood details will bring luxuriousness inside the truck. Comfort will be closer to a sedan than to truck model. Features like Navigation, SiriusXM Radio, Weather and Traffic Info will come as standard. The Mark Levinson Premium Audio System will also be integrated.

Lexus Pickup Truck – Powertrain

Since the new Lexus Pickup Truck is still in developing phase it is uncertain what engine will come as standard. The possible scenario is that Toyota decides to go with one diesel and one petrol option. In that case, a 2.8-liter turbodiesel mill could be one of the options. This engine is very powerful and can deliver 179 horsepower and 337 lb-ft of torque. The petrol version should be 4.0-liter V6, Dual VVT-i with 285 hp (213 kW) and 289 lb-ft (392 Nm). The all-wheel-drive system will be optional and the transmission will go through a six-speed, manual or automatic gearbox.

Debut and Price

It is not realistic to expect the new Lexus Pickup Truck at dealerships soon. However, the Concept model could be presented at some big auto show next year. If it sees the daylight, the price of this luxurious truck won’t be insignificant. Taking in mind costs of its potential competitors like Mercedes X-Class or F-150 Limited, new Lexus Pickup Truck could arrive with a price tag between $40,000 and $50,000.