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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  Test drive - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By irish - July 2 - 2:00 am

  I only test drove this truck. I own a 99 LX. Everything was great about this truck except the handling. On the freeway it was a bit loose. The 3rd row seating is comfortable.

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  Great - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By sooppa - July 2 - 2:00 am

  Great car. This would be the greatest car if it had more torque.

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  awesome - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By Karengray - June 20 - 10:00 am

  Of all the cars and SUVs I have ever had in the 32 years I have been driving, this car is the ultimate. I have had no trouble whatsover with it. It is fast off the line and rides wonderful! I love the exterior design and the original rear end design, looks so sporty! To think the BMW suv is 15,000.00 more that this!

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  Nothing compares in this class - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By Moi - June 20 - 10:00 am

  Comparing the MDX, ML500, BMW, the GX470 is without a doubt the most luxurious of the SUVs. An outstanding value considering what you get. Lexus packages limited options because it already has most options you would expect. Although the ML500 has better acceleration, the reliability is questionable. The Lexus quality is what won me over.

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  The Best - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By cougarmt - June 9 - 2:00 am

  Best car I have ever owned. Well worth the money

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  Review Title - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By LexusOwner - June 2 - 2:00 am

  Excellent Vehicle. Great handling.Smooth ride. No noise. Easy to use controls. Luxurious interior

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  First GX 470! - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By Mom2Four - May 30 - 3:23 pm

  Purchased my first Lexus from my BFF; GX is 5 years old with 35K miles; interior is in excellent shape, has held up well to 2 kids. Love the comfort selection option, comfort- sport. I have yet to find anything I dont love about this vehicle. There is very little road noise; feature options are excellent; and the sunroof doesnt leak (like in other vehicles weve owned). The rumble seats take getting used to - but easy to pop-up or put-down.

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  LEXUS - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By Beeglad - May 28 - 10:00 am

  First Japanese Car-- I give it very high marks

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  so far so good - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By newenegue - May 19 - 2:00 am

  Well our family just picked up the new GX470. so far i can say it is excellent. the ride is very smooth and the rear air suspension leveling system is fun to play with. we got it almost fully loaded, everything but the rear entertainment system. the dvd based navigation system is touch screen and makes it even more user friendly. the third row seat is a bit small for someone tall like me (6ft) but okay for small children riding. i really only have one problem with the car and that is that it is not offered with HID(High Intensity Discharge) lights. it would have made the car look even better.

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  Simply the Best - 2008 Lexus GX 470
  By Liquiddi - May 15 - 3:03 pm

  I bought an 08 GX 470 for my wife and love every bit of this truck. I own an 06 Trailblazer SS and love it to death. I can say the Lexus out performs the SS in every category except performance. The Lexus is tight The doors dont rattle when you shut them. At the age of 33 Im really sick of all the American cars Ive had. I guess Im getting old and tired of dealing with the problems. GX 470 is awesome.