Overview & Reviews

The GX 470 midsize SUV continued the Lexus tradition of offering high levels of luxury in a vehicle that is both quiet and comfortable. With three rows of seating, a smooth V8 engine and a refined interior, the GX was a top-tier luxury SUV in every sense of the term. In addition, this particular Lexus had the ability to venture farther off-road than most of its owners would ever have the desire, or courage, to take it.

However, the Lexus GX 470 existed at a time when the crossover SUV market was really growing. Although its rugged truck-based underpinnings provided advantages in terms of towing or going off-road, the resulting higher weight, lower fuel economy and decreased space efficiency meant this Lexus wasn't the best choice for the type of on-road driving that most luxury SUV owners spend the majority of their time doing.

Although discontinued after 2009, this model essentially lived on as the redesigned Lexus GX 460.

Most Recent Lexus GX 470
The Lexus GX 470 was a traditional body-on-frame SUV produced from 2003-'09. Mechanically, it was closely related to the Toyota 4Runner of the time. At the time, we were impressed by the GX's superior off-road abilities and upscale interior. Downsides included a very cramped third-row seat and a side-hinged cargo door that could impede curbside loading.

Originally, there was a single trim level and its 4.7-liter V8 produced only 235 horsepower. This would be upgraded to 270 for 2005, but that was downgraded to 263 when testing procedures changed in '06. A five-speed automatic was always standard, as was a full-time four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing.

Throughout its time on the market, the GX 470 came with a variety of features designed to help it off-road including Downhill Assist Control (DAC), Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC) and Rear Adjustable Height Control (AHC). The optional Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) arrived for 2004. This high-tech feature automatically adjusted the front and rear stabilizer bars to enhance handling under a variety of conditions, both on- and off-road.

While this off-roading potential is a key GX 470 attribute, Lexus owners expect refinement and luxury. True to form, the GX 470 offered fine leather on the seats and lustrous wood on the dash and steering wheel. However, as it got on in years, the GX started to lack some of the luxury features that came to be expected in its segment. As such, later model versions may be less appealing relative to their contemporary competitors.

There were other significant changes made to the GX 470 during its lengthy life. For '04, safety upgrades included a roll-sensing feature for the side curtain airbags, a tire-pressure monitoring system and an optional rear back-up camera system for vehicles with the navigation system installed.

A Sport trim joined the lineup for '05 and remained until the GX 470 gave way to the 460. Other GX option changes that year included an upgraded navigation system with better graphics and additional functions, Bluetooth compatibility and voice commands for the climate control, audio and navigation systems. Navigation was again updated for 2007. Other '07 changes included the addition of an auxiliary audio jack and a larger screen for the rear-seat entertainment system.

User Reviews:

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  Excellent - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By seth - June 21 - 2:00 am

  There is nnothing I can say except for excellent in every way!

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  Great - 2006 Lexus GX 470
  By Francis - May 26 - 1:16 am

  I purchased a 2006 GX 470 with the navigation/Mark Levinson package in Nautical Blue Metallic with dark gray interior on 3/25/06. The vehicle itself is beautiful inside and outside. The interior is a little dated however still very classy and functional. Fit and finish is impeccable and to Lexus standards. The ride is very smooth and stunningly quiet! The Mark Levinson system is excellent. The navigation system is a little too fussy: you have switch from region to region if you are going to do any traveling between states and require assistance. The V8 is silky smooth and more then adequate to power the vehicle. Overall the GX 470 is a great SUV that I would highly recommend to anyone.

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  2007 GX470 - 2007 Lexus GX 470
  By Arno Huang - May 18 - 12:29 pm

  A Lexus mechanic checked out my car prior to purchase. Beware there are some trouble spots, but overall they are one of the most reliable vehicles you can buy. If you are a Lexus owner, you have access to all Lexus service records online (including records prior to your ownership). This is a great resource. We traded a RX330 for the GX, the GX has a much nicer interior and the build quality is amazing. Very pleased with the vehicle.

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  This is the absolute best youll love it - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By Daddyridesagain - May 18 - 10:00 am

  Im 47 and I needed a luxury car for work and a 4 wheel for fun. The GX is perfect for business and pleasure. Process of elimination came down to new Sequoia, ML500,older LX470 and a 2004 GX470. BUY THE GX and dont look back. Its worth every penny.This car does everything but shave, shower and make love to you. The sales person said that comes with next years model. Rear camera has saved me twice, navigation is awesome,drove 600 miles in the mountains without a map. The DVD was a hit taking my children to Yosemite this week. The leather and wood interior is beautiful. My only complaint is that its so quiet that Im not aware Im driving 85-90, no kiddin

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  Great LUV - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By bjsgx - May 10 - 2:00 am

  Lexus GX 470 is a NICE Luxury Sports Utility. I have found no faults with it. Sure I got a few options I didnt need, but the resal value will be there for someone who does need them. Fantastic LUV!

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  Best Vehicle Ever Owned - 2006 Lexus GX 470
  By LinG - May 1 - 1:46 am

  I have driven this vehicle 66,000 miles over the past 3-1/2 years.Bought it brand new in 11/2005.I am 53 years old and have owned at least 20 vehicles over the years. The GX470 is rated #1 over of all my other vehicles including my wifes M-B. The built- quality is excellent and so has been the reliability. I have had no issues, and no need for warranty work. So far just basic maintenance, like oil changes, tires and brakes, it is still running on the factory battery.I love the size, not too big, not too small. The mileage could be better,The third row seats can be removed easily(as I have done)to provide added cargo. I have only used the third row seat twice to accommodate visiting family kids

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  Lexus 470 GX - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By Chris Reese - April 29 - 10:00 am

  Very smooth and quiet ride for an SUV. Perhaps the most sylish SUV on the road to date. Audio system is superb in this vehicle. Navigation system is very helpful especially in unfamiliar urban setteings.

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  Love My Lexus - 2008 Lexus GX 470
  By Renee999 - April 24 - 2:26 pm

  This is my first Lexus and I love it. I traded in my BMW 530 because I now have 5 grandchildren and I needed more room. I looked at the Volvo X90 and the 3rd row seat was not very accessible, Sequoia and Tahoe are too big. This LX 470 is just right. The third row seats are very easy to fold up and down. The ride is very smooth and luxurious. The bluetooth and navigation system are easy to use. I am very happy I bought this car.

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  Im still in Awe - 2006 Lexus GX 470
  By lilstrawberri - April 14 - 7:16 pm

  I like the height of the GX and I really enjoy jumping out to see my GX lower himself. SO COOL... Having the touch screen navigation and the assistant (the talking lady) has been an awesome feature. My GX also has the Lexus Link which hopefully I do not have to use but if I need it. At least I have it.

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  The best and the rest. - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By tajamu - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Enjoyed the test drive and buying experience. The driving experience is comfortable and smooth. At the end of my trips I could continue driving with little effort. Thanks Lexus for taking the work out of driving and getting it right.