Let’s face it: A lot of hardcore off-road SUVs out there never leave paved roads. Here in Scottsdale, Arizona, spotless Mercedes-Benz G-Wagens and Range Rovers are common sights. Their owners are missing out on the fun of getting some mud on the tires, but hey, they spent the money so they can do – or not do – what they want with their vehicles. Similarly, Lexus‘ newest concept, the golf-themed 2024 GX 550 Malbon Edition, is made for the country club, not the countryside.
As its name implies, Lexus collaborated with Malbon Golf, “a lifestyle brand inspired by the game” that was founded in 2017, to create this distinctive rig. Green was the obvious choice for the wrap, but they took things a step further and made one with a fairway topographic motif. Like a golf ball, the 22-inch wheels and roof are white, making it even clearer that the only sand this GX will be taking on is what its passengers’ shoes drag in from a bunker.
Inside, there’s room for four. Instead of a third row, the GX 550 Malbon Edition has a custom pull-out storage box that can fit up to four golf bags, irons, golf balls, tees, shoes, towels, and other items. For longer woods and clubs, there’s a Prinsu roof rack that holds a Pelican BX140R cargo case. A Yakima SlimShady roof-mounted awning is also up top to provide shade if the sun (and hours of day drinking) gets to be too much.
Lexus doesn’t seem to have any plans for putting the GX 550 Malbon Edition into production, but it is taking it on the road. Look for it at the following events:
- October 7 – Oregon Buckets Club Golf Tournament, Columbia Edgewater
- October 9-12 – IMSA Petit Le Mans, Road Atlanta
- November 11 – Buckets Club Tournament, The Grand Golf Club
- December 4 – Lexus Malbon Invitational, Miami Shores Country Club
