Toyota has halted sales of the Lexus GX460 today following a “Don’t Buy” warning issued by Consumer Reports amid concerns it could roll over during sharp turns.
Lexus dealers across the country, such as Richmond Auto Dealers, were asked to suspend sales of the SUV while the automaker conducts rigorous tests of the GX460’s possible handling issues.
“We are taking the situation with the GX 460 very seriously and are determined to identify and correct the issue Consumer Reports identified,” said Mark Templin, Lexus vice president and general manager.
The decision to halt sales of the Lexus GX460, which has recently been redesigned for the 2010 model year, comes at a tumultuous time for Toyota as it continues to rebuild its tarnished reputation. Luckily, sales of the GX460 account for only a small fraction of the automaker’s overall sales, but the news could deliver a substantial impact from a PR perspective.
Consumer Reports’ warning is not issued lightly. The last time such as a safety warning was issued was when the 2001 Mitsubishi Montero Limited was tested. While testing that SUV, testers said that the wheels had literally lifted off of the ground during standard avoidance-maneuver tests.
Acura Woodbridge says the issue affecting the Lexus SUV may deal with the electric stability control system, which should automatically correct a loss of control and keep the vehicle on course. However, Consumer Reports’ testers said the GX’s system took too long to adjust.
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Keep reading about the GX and all Lexus news on this blog.
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