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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  Easy to Drive and Park - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By rhayman - February 18 - 2:00 am

  Its big and comfortable with a safe feeling as you glide along the highway. And glide is a good feeling as to how this baby handles. Dont use the navigation system for familiar trips around town unless you want to see new territory. Be sure to get the rubber floor mats for winter carpet protection. Con: Must be in park to use seat/mirror presets. Highway gas mileage is better than expected; city driving is a gas hog.

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  The SUV that all aspire to be - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By haultj - February 16 - 8:38 pm

  I purchased this new in May 2004. I have never been more happy with a vehicle purchase. Everyone loves this vehicle from the exterior look to the interior feel this is as close to perfect as they come. This has great power for the highway and is amazing in any weather or terrain. I have taken this where no other could go. Deep snow is no match. Off road is so easy. I use this to haul and deliver equipment to my clients and I could not be more happy with this vehicle. The Mark Levison sound is great! The navigation gets me where I want to go. Everyone feels safe when I drive them in this vehicle. Fill it with gas, do standard maintenance and it goes and goes.

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  Expected Better - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By mev - February 1 - 2:00 am

  As an owner of 4 previous Lexusand my first SUV Lexus I am quite suprrised what a quiet ride this SUV has. I purchased this vehicle with every available option. I enjoy driving it but I am disappointed with the braking system. I ocasionally tow Jet skis with this vehicle and I am disappointed with the performance while towing the skis and braking is very disappointing with towing the skis. Brakes fade terribly when traveling highway speed and having to stop more quickly than the norm.

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  GX 470 is King. - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By TedK - January 27 - 8:00 am

  Have over 35K on truck now. Never a problem. Drives and tows like a dream. Would highly recommend over any other 4 x 4 on the market. It rides and drives like a car but has all the power of a truck. Tows my 6000 lb boat like it isnt there. What a perfect truck.

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  GX470 Great SUV - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By ckcpa - January 25 - 2:00 am

  Had front end shimmy - dealer replaced two tires that solved problem. Fun and easy to drive. Very solid feel. High winds do catch it and can move it on the road at 65mph plus. Dont like the way the real door swings open.

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  Great SUV - 2005 Lexus GX 470
  By Dean Norberg - January 6 - 12:36 am

  THe more we drive it, the better we love it! Exellent quality inside and out!

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  Dont Believe The J.D. Power Report - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By tlwpb - December 26 - 10:00 am

  This is the best SUV I had drive, Ive test drive the MDX, ML320, FX45, before buying the GX470. This SUV is very smooth, quiet, and powerful, and the quality is the best compare to other SUVs company. Recently, I have checked the J.D. Power wed site about the GX470 rating, and I believe they have made a big mistake in rating this automobile or the people that do the evaulation did do it right! So, dont believe every thing you read or see.

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  Lexus GX - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By gchance1 - December 9 - 10:00 am

  My experience with the GX has been a pleasant one. This vehicle replaced a Toyota 4-Runner. The GX is not as sporty, but was not intended to be. Considering its size, it is very quiet and comfortable. Initially, I did not think I would enjoy full time 4 wheel drive. One drive on a rain soaked road changed my mind. No more unintended wheel spin departing signals on wet streets. Overall, a very comfortable, capable vehicle.

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  Buy this vehicle - 2005 Lexus GX 470
  By Donald Tomlinson - December 4 - 8:56 am

  This is the best SUV I have ever driven. Rides smooth, handles great. I would buy another one.

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  Not a Lexus customer - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By John Gatturna - November 11 - 11:36 pm

  The car is an attempt to align the practical & fun nature of an off road with a luxury vehicle. The 2 dont mix well. Pleasant exterior lines. Engaging the 4 wheel drive is awkward and inefficient; only added cost to an already over priced product.