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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great car - 2003 Lexus GX 470
By john122485 - September 20 - 10:00 amgreat car, reliable, quiet, great handling, but it could use more horsepower for a v-8.
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My GX 470 - 2005 Lexus GX 470
By KennyMitch - August 29 - 5:10 amWe love this vehicle! I traded in a BMW 525i and a Jeep Liberty both with low miles. We can honestly say this is the best driving experience we have ever had. I can assure you that we have had some wonderful automobiles but, nothing beats our 2004 Lexus GX 470. We have style, grace and superior handling all rolled into one vehicle. Long trips are a breeze compared to any other vehicle and I really loved my BMW 525i until I gave it up for a Lexus GX 470. Its a Superb blend of quality and handling. We love it!
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lexus is numero uno - 2004 Lexus GX 470
By roel gonzalez - August 17 - 10:00 amThe GX 470 is a pleasure to drive. The only draw back is the CD player which is in the glove box. It is just a cream to drive.
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Love my car!! - 2004 Lexus GX 470
By Josie Dee - August 17 - 10:00 amI love my GX470. I think it is the best car I have ever owned. The layout is excellent and my kids love the DVD system. Great turning radius.
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A Great Experience - 2003 Lexus GX 470
By bobemac - August 13 - 2:00 amI just got rid of my Acura MDX Touring. Paid over MSRP for it in 2001. The GXs interior is far superior to the MDX. The GX includes full sized lighted running boards, a full sized spare Bridgestone Dueller tires. Wood and leather steering wheel is std. The Dealer was very fair, and gave a nice discount. Purchased a std model with a rear spoiler, two seat for $3.5 K more than an MDX. This is a great SUV, but dont try to follow me off-road in your MDX, you wouldnt make it.
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Excellent car - 2003 Lexus GX 470
By ATV - August 7 - 10:00 amDrove the Discovery, RX330, X5, QX4, MDX. none had the comfort and styling as the GX. So smooth. Nav system is intuitive. Xenon lights not available because car height would cause blindness to oncoming cars
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GX 470 - 2006 Lexus GX 470
By Seidler - August 1 - 2:56 amRuns like butter, nice appointments.
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Love this Vehicle - 2005 Lexus GX 470
By Chrissy - July 27 - 3:00 amThis vehicle is the best car I have ever owned. Its fun to drive, has a lot of passenger room and storage. The gas mileage is much better then most SUVs. Its sporty looking and very versatile.
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lexus gx470 - 2004 Lexus GX 470
By sof50 - July 21 - 2:00 amgreat car, very plush, pleasure to drive.
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So good we bought TWO! - 2004 Lexus GX 470
By MrsLighting - July 4 - 10:00 amAll I can say is that we loved the GX SO much that we bought 2! We traded in an LS & an RX & we think we got the best of both vehicles in the GX. I have 2 carseats in my GX @ all times as well as a dble jog stroller & Im still able to fit in more plants & groceries than you can imagine! The DVD player is a godsend; it keeps my girls happy & the headphones are great!My husband is a salesrep & puts about 40K + miles a yr on his vehicles & the GX has so many great features especially the GPS system that help him to make the GX his rolling office. Oh, and the GX can really MOVE! To sum it up; the GX is is an all round AWESOME vehical for anyone & everyone!
