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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  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.

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  Lexus Sex Us - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By dxchud - February 7 - 2:00 am

  After only 2 GX test drives, reading reviews on Edmunds and ClubLexus.com - I was sold! Also considered Volvo XC90 and BMW X5 and was turned off in that process. Volvo- disappointed by the interior quality and general station wagon feel. BMW - was not big enough and can only rely on its performance oriented characteristics which were not outstanding with the 3.0. Finally, after my wife was SO impressed with the test drive (concerned by SUV gas mileage) and said - "this is NIIIICE". We were sold. Had it only about 48 hrs. but really love the new addition to our family. Even our 2 yr old daughter said "nice car" after sitting in it.

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  Love my Car - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By Jessica - February 6 - 3:40 am

  My lexus has been the best car for me. I owned a 2004 for 2 years and just upgraded to a 2006. It rides smooth as glass (much better than my GM SUV). The car is all about making the driver comfortable. The Navigation system is easy to operate and a huge help. I have NEVER had to take my car in except for routine maintentance. I LOVE MY CAR!!

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  Lexus GX470 2004 - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By narin - January 21 - 2:00 am

  This Lexus is better driving than my wife Mercedez-benz E320. It is very easy to drive and handle. My wife is enjoying her driving my Lexus than her car.I am very happy with this GX 470 than my previous RX300;however, rear view is limited and has to be very careful backing (since I do not have rearview camera).Cargo space is also limited with the third row seats.

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  Superb Quality - 2005 Lexus GX 470
  By Chris - December 11 - 2:26 pm

  GX interior appointed like prior Lexus luxury Sedan; Sharp exterior style; Tough off road capability.

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  New Lexus Midsize SUV - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By VM - November 29 - 10:00 am

  A great ride and has most ammenities that a consumer would realistically use.

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  Great Vehicle - 2005 Lexus GX 470
  By Lori OBX - November 27 - 11:26 pm

  Very comfortable and luxurious. Gas mileage is good. Engine has great pickup. 4WD handles well.