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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  GX470 - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By Legran - February 18 - 10:00 am

  Ive got 15,000 miles on mine now. It is a superb vehicle. Very smooth, quiet ride but not sprung too lightly. Not a hot rod, but very adaquately powered. Drives great. They could improve it by finding some other way to store the third row seats so it doesnt further compromise already somewhat limited storage space. Should offer halogen headlights. But overall, an outstanding vehicle.

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  Lexus GX 470 - 2005 Lexus GX 470
  By MC Chapman - February 12 - 8:20 am

  Traded in 2003 Range Rover due to really lousy mileage and high test gas requirement; the GX 470 rides like a baby carriage, takes regular gas and is excellent on milage. It is comfortable, easy to drive and very user friendly. Additionally, its spacious cabin and top notch appointments make long hauls a delight. Its ability to "kneel" for exiting of back seat passsengers is a real plus for kids and oldsters, alike. The NAV system and the Blue Tooth capability and voice command ability really puts it ahead of any other SUV I test drove, and the reverse camera is something every car should have! The "dipping" sideview mirrors in Reverse are also very useful.

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  It really is this good - 2008 Lexus GX 470
  By GX Fans - February 12 - 2:13 am

  After driving a Durango for many years, we wanted something a little nicer but still powerful enough to keep up our active outdoor lifestyle. We were looking at the Sequioa, but decided that for a little more the GX had all that we wanted and more. This is a great deal. The vehicle performed on a recent road trip under conditions ranging from 110 degrees to below 32 without any issues. It handled on ice, snow, mud, dirt, rock and pavement better than expected. Performance is unbelieveable when you accelerate. It tows like a truck and the engine doesnt even balk. Sometimes it is easy to forget that you arent driving a luxury sedan. The only close competition is the Mercedes GL class.

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  Unforgivable Oversight - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By David Wachtel - February 7 - 10:00 am

  This is a fantastic vehicle, but it baffles my mind how did the designers failed to deal with the wind shudder. The wind shudder when opening the back windows of this vehicle render them almost unusable. A gross omission in an otherwise terrific vehicle.

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  2005 Lexus GX 470 - 2005 Lexus GX 470
  By 2005 Lexus GX 470 - February 4 - 11:56 pm

  I just traded a 2002 Toyota Sequoia and I really didnt know the meaning of a luxury driving feeling before I got into the GX 470. I love it!

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  GX 470 is awsome - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By AWESOME GX - February 3 - 2:00 am

  I just purchased the GX and LOVE it. It is a mini LX with all the luxury and more. We purchased the fully loaded package with navigation and dvd, they are both wonderful! The car drives like a dream and you can actually park in a real parking spot with out a problem. LEXUS is one nice ride! It handles great. I dont know why anyone would choose the LX or any other luxury SUV. I tried to give the LX a shot, I just couldnt justify the 10K price difference for the same SUV that is only "inches" different. I also tried every other new and improved SUV on the market, the GX blows them all away....unless, of course, you dont need the luxury...then go for a truck.

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  Excellent Luxury SUV - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By cclewis1 - February 3 - 2:00 am

  This car has it all, and with Lexus great leasing program the cost is kept down. The only downside is the on board computer system, which requires a couple of hours of studying the manual to learn.

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  Too good to be true - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By lexite - January 29 - 10:00 am

  Many SUV/LUVs to choose from, but this one is the most practical car for my family. Already spoiled by the lexus luxury ride and comfort of my 98ES, we could not settle on X5 or MDX. I found X5 to be a stylish fun car to drive but way behind the GXs silky ride comfort and space. MDX being a good value SUV but lacks the luxury that Lexus provides. GX is a magnificient blend of luxury and utility accompanied by unsurpassed Lexus customer service, and proven reliability, engineering and technology. It simply works great for my daily use as well as family vacation trips.

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  I Love It - 2006 Lexus GX 470
  By Trent - December 25 - 4:10 pm

  I have loved this car from the moment I left the lot. I average 16/17 mpg in town and over 20 on the highway. It pulls my big boat easily.

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  Great SUV! - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By jackwu - December 25 - 10:00 am

  Perfect! Even the fuel efficiency is not as bad as some other people claimed. I got over 20 mpg on my everyday commute (half local and half highway).