Lexus TX three-row crossover celebrates the much-anticipated screen version of the stage hit
CASEY WILLIAMS | Auto Reviewer
AutoCasey@AOL.com
I know cars. Theater? Not so much. But I am looking forward to the release of the film adaptation of Wicked that’s set to be released in full surround sound, chocolate-covered raisins and popping corn when it hits theaters on Nov. 22.
I may not yet know the musical well, but I do know all of the songs. “For Good” is one of my all-time favorites.
My husband, our daughter and I can’t wait! I even bought green Wicked nail polish for the occasion. My daughter loves that, too.
But I may be in for another fantasy realized.
Automotive Fantasy Via Lexus
As it turns out, Lexus has also appealed to my automotive predispositions by creating two bespoke TX three-row crossovers for the film’s debut. One conjures the eventual evil of Elphaba while the other lifts the goodness of Glinda in a ying-and-yang, goodness-and-gauche, Grande-and-Erivo kind of way.
“We’ve designed each vehicle to capture the magic of Wicked and bring the cinematic experience to life for its passionate fans,” said Lisa McQueen, manager of Lexus marketing.
“Just as Glinda and Elphaba each possess distinct powers and vibrant personalities, these customized vehicles spotlight their distinctive styles, ensuring that fans ‘Experience OZmazing.’”
Taking inspiration from the movie’s Emerald City architecture, each vehicle embodies Art Deco motifs that transport their patrons in enchanting beauty.
The Glinda TX is all about positivity rendered in Electric Pink with shimmering gold accents and wheels. Its “POPULR” vanity plate winks at the good witch’s famous song in the movie. Pink underglow lighting permeates a vibrant happy aura.
Basking in a far different light, The Elphaba TX bears a deep emerald-green exterior with gold details and ethereal green underglow. Tires surround large geometric golden wheels. Identify this broom by its DFY GRVTY vanity plate that references her anthem in the musical.
Lexus reality back home
Back in Kansas (or Texas, Indiana, L.A…), the TX should be right at home in driveways and carparks. Whether you root for good or evil, both vehicles are essentially luxed-out versions of the popular Toyota Highlander, with magnificent space for seven passengers, wide 14-inch infotainment touchscreens and available hybrid powertrains.
If you’re planning a sing-along with your entire cadre of monkeys, opt for the deeply penetrating Mark Levinson audio system.
The movie cars are hybrids, but friends of Dorothy on the side of the Emerald City can choose between a gasoline 2.4-liter turbo-four, hybrid that achieves 27/28-MPG city/highway or plug-in hybrid with a lofty 404 horsepower and 33 miles of electric driving range.
All-wheel-drive and a whole city of gems are available for a price.
Base models start at $55,050 with hybrids rising from $69,350. Plug-in hybrids cost $78,050. If you want your own Glinda or Elphaba edition, forget it; they’re priceless. Though wouldn’t they be a great way to mark your own arrival at the local cineplex?
Both vehicles made their official red-carpet debuts during the Wicked premiere at the
Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in Los Angeles. I guess if we’re on our way to Oz in a handbasket, might as well take the fabulous route.