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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  A True Lexus at Heart - 2006 Lexus GX 470
  By Ian Aker - March 29 - 1:10 am

  Having owned a GX 470 for about a year, I can honestly say that Lexus builds great cars, and that Lexus dealerships take great care of their clients. Overall the car drives just like many other Lexi, bland steering but with a solidarity only found in a few other car makes.

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  Quiet smooth ride with good safety features - 2006 Lexus GX 470
  By Jim Hughes - March 25 - 7:08 am

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  GX470 - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By was - December 1 - 2:00 am

  Does not have many options. You dont need many. A pleasure top drive and Lexus dealerships deliver outstanding service thus far. Highly recommend.

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  Worth the price - 2006 Lexus GX 470
  By Neil Cassidy - November 13 - 2:20 am

  A real surprise. The GX470 is a well built, very comfortable SUV -- I looked at the Range Rover and the BMW X5 and am glad I decided on the Lexus. Everything in the car works -- not a single issue in the first 2000 miles. True, its not a sport sedan -- and it drives like an SUV, not a car. But it has plenty of power and handles well. Id recommend the GX 470 to anyone looking to replace their mid size SUV.

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  Versatile, Comfortable, Impressive - 2008 Lexus GX 470
  By RNarenDMD - October 31 - 11:43 am

  I picked up my GX in 3/08. I wanted to wait awhile before posting a review to allow for some perspective. The craftsmanship and build quality is fantastic. Power train the smoothest Ive experienced (previous BMW owner). The car has been 100% trouble free so far (14K miles). No squeaks or rattles to speak of. Superb driving position and seats. Having just moved into a new house with a new baby, this car has been very useful for carrying boxes, etc. Rock solid in snow as well. Wish gas mileage was better though; Ive been averaging 17.5 mpg on premium. I would recommend this car as long as you dont mind the mileage.

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  Great Looking Car - 2006 Lexus GX 470
  By Karen - September 21 - 5:30 am

  I feel very safe driving my GX 470. The navigation system is outstanding, the best I have ever seen. Even though it is a mid size SUV this car can easily fit into standard parking spaces. Sound system is top of the line

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  GX Spot - 2005 Lexus GX 470
  By Berle - July 13 - 7:36 pm

  This is our 3rd Lexus trading up from the RX model. The main reason we bought the GX is its size while driving around Florida. We are totally thrilled with the performance of this vehicle. The interior is well appointed and is the best ride we have had in years owning a vehicle. Driving is a joy on a calm day. If it is windy you are going to struggle with the wheel when sudden gust prevail. Passenger seating is very good in the back except for the cargo area fold down seating. Just try to get back there. Leg room zero and tolerable for young kids. Cargo area and rear door needs work. With cargo seats stored you are limited with space for any large items unless you remove the seats.

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  Excellent SUV - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By Brad007 - May 2 - 10:00 pm

  Overall, a great value for a luxury SUV. Excellent styling with generally a smooth ride. Very good acceleration for a midsize SUV. Very comfortable for long road trips. The 3d row of seats comes in handy. We also liked the Acura MDX but preferred the luxury feel of the Lexus.

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  Solid SUV - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By VS - December 7 - 7:33 am

  Bought my 04 with 43K miles as certified with 3yr/100K warranty. Now 2 yrs later have 78K and it still drives better then many new cars and SUVs. Very solid vehicle and very useful for cargo hauling (I own a small business with frequent airport trips with as many as 20 cases inside with rear seats removed and middle seats folded!). 3rd seats dont have enough leg room, but otherwise are Ok for short trips. Comfy seats with very tastefully done interior, large sunroof, very macho-looking from outside. Overall trouble-free 2 yrs with some minor wear-tear issues, like tires, brakes and some bulbs...great for snow and bad weather - feels very secure on the road with commanding view!

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  Great SUV; soccer mom car - 2005 Lexus GX 470
  By gw9 - November 22 - 1:33 pm

  Having owned Lexus before I knew this would be a very reliable car. Gas & go. Maintain per mfg recommendations and it will last forever. What it is for: In town errands; carrying clean cargo like groceries and such; long road trips; ski trips; car pools. What its not for: Work truck; off roading; hauling heavy trailers; hauling construction supplies or plant material. Its a soccer mom car. Reliable, elegant, comfy. Zero excitement but what SUV is?