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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  Fine Vehicle - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By Fine Vehicle - September 7 - 5:40 am

  I traded in my 04 RX330 for the GX for I needed more capacity and capability. FOR A TRUCK, it handles, drives and rides exceptionally well. The mpg at 18 is expected for this type of vehicle. The quality, like my RX is superb. The nav. system is easy to use, and the backup camera is an absolute must have due to the inherent blind spots. I made sure I got the Michelins, and have had no trouble whatsoever, like I have often read from other owners. Overall, for me, I feel it is the best from the list I chose, incl. the SRX, the horribly unreliable VW T-Reg, the Benz and the fun driving, but impractical and rather unreliable X5. I am so far very pleased with the GX, and would recommend it.

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  I had to write about it! - 2005 Lexus GX 470
  By Nick - September 6 - 5:46 am

  I normally would not take the time to write a car review, but this SUV really deserves it. Its actually my wifes car but I find myself making up goofy excuses to drive it because it is so nice. The Lexus quality is #1 as is their customer service. I bought chrome factory wheels from an Amarket wheel shop and in the swapping out process they broke a wheel stud off. I took the truck back to the dealer for the fix expecting a line about how I would be responsible for the cost since I did not have them do the install. Not even a funny look from the service advisor, on the contrary; a danish, cup of coffee and an apology for the inconvienence. Do yourself a favor and test drive this truck!!!!!

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  lexusgx 470 - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By suzanne35 - September 5 - 10:00 am

  had the larger lexus suv. traded it in fpr this one. more sporty fun to drive. not as difficult to park. still has enough room for a family of four comfortably. rides like a car not a truck.

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  Lexus GX 470 - 2005 Lexus GX 470
  By Lori London - August 6 - 6:43 pm

  Great ride. Many comfort levels. Perfect size for single business person. CD player is diasspointing in the performance and design.

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  Great Car, awful radio - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By Mike925 - July 31 - 10:00 am

  This is my first Lexus and I was not let down from what I expected. I have taken it off road several times it has handled beautifully. I am averaging 19.3 mpg over the life of the car (most of my driving is highway). My biggest complaint is about something pretty trivial - radio controls. I could buy a radio at Circuit City that would be more user friendly. Lexuss top designers must have had the day off when the radio was being created. The controls are spread out among the steering wheel, the touch screen and the cassette deck below.

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  lexus suv - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By mariasalpe - July 31 - 10:00 am

  we enjoy everything about this car and the service that is recieved even after the purchase at the dealership

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  awesome!!!! - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By evelyn - July 19 - 10:00 am

  i love this suv

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  My best driving experience ever - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By rbkencar - July 11 - 10:00 am

  Youd feel comfort, luxury and safety once you get on drivers seat. You sense youre surrounded by a solid, protective shield . . and that you are in for a smooth, powerful yet quiet ride. This was how I felt when I test drove the GX 47. (I rated it better compared to similar test drive with MB ML, 320 and 500). But back to my GX 470. The actual driving experience proved even more exhilirating. I have never felt so cool driving 400 miles each way ever. Why? Driving 70-75 mph was a breeze and accelerating to pass those semis was no sweat. The GX 490 is indeed my best driving experience ever.

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  Great vehicle, good value. - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By Ist time Lexus Owner - July 5 - 10:00 am

  Bought the GX after looking at the Cayenne and the BMW. Better deal for the money; quality is better. Ride is stiff over heavy bumps in the rear, but the ride and cabin quiet is typical Lexus excellent quality. Engine is adequate for the vehicle; interior appointments are high quality. The rear door looks goofy and is impractical, particularly when towing our trailer. Stereo is excellent, and the nav system is very well-designed and easy to use. I like the size of the shifter, but there should be more of a gate between D and 4. Overall its a great vehicle; great size, good power, great quality.

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  Got A Good One - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By scottb - July 5 - 10:00 am

  Worried about vibration problem, but test drive before taking delivery eliminated as an issue. First time Lexus buyer; currently own 2 BMWs. Almost bought X5, but quality issues steered me away. Glad I chose the GX470 - head and shoulders better than X5.