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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  What an SUV should be - 2005 Lexus GX 470
  By Ken - June 18 - 4:46 pm

  An older design that has held up very well. Light on certain features vs newer competition but so well executed it doesnt matter. Ive owned too many SUVs and was let down by their quality and resale value. Finally, I looked for the best 50K-60K SUV out there and worked backwards from the resale figures. What I found was a capable and incredibly reliable SUV. Stout mechanicals covered with Lexus jewelry. I have no complaints and my wish list isnt really valid... what I wish for generally wasnt allowed for in the design years ago. One thing amazes me though, the HP & torque figures are pretty lame considering the weight (235/320 & 4900+), Toyota somehow makes it feel much stronger.

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  What a great car - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By Mr. Ollie - May 17 - 2:00 am

  Purchase a new GX470 a few weeks ago. All I can say is what a great car. It is well built with perfect fit and finish. Gas milage is running around 18mph with the first few tank fulls. The V8 is smooth and lots of power. It does sit high and does need HID lights.

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  A Quality, plush SUV - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By Scott1 - April 8 - 10:00 am

  I bought my 04 GX470 after looking at all of the choices in the class. The Lexus just offered more of what I wanted..an exceptional luxury interior, smooth refined powertrain, and the best reputation for quality and dealer service in the industry. Ive had it on rough city streets and out on the freeway, and the ride and road manners are impeccable in all situations. It doesnt handle like a sports car , but I didnt buy a sports car either. Its handling is easy and supremely comfortable. Lots of room in the back seat for adults, the third seat is pretty useless though unless you haul munchkins around. Adjustable suspension settings work well, letting you set the handling/ride as you like.

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  GX470 review - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By Vaughn - March 12 - 2:00 am

  Great ride, comfort, steering and handling.

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  Awesome SUV! - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By dougb - March 12 - 2:00 am

  The best SUV on the planet! Exceptional ride. Luxurious with all the Lexus ammenities. Performance oriented. An SUV with an attitude! A blast to drive. Will break your fun meter right off!!

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  Smooth as silk - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By 470lvr - March 7 - 10:00 am

  I have had this vehicle for less then two weeks and have found nothing that I dont like. The drive is smooth as silk. This is the perfect SUV ! It comfortably seats 7 and the DVD and Navigation are extremly easy to use. For the money you cant go wrong.

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  The absolute Best SUV - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By Jerry B - March 7 - 2:00 am

  Wow, what a fantastic truck. I am coming out of a Mercedes ML320 and this vehicle is far superior in every aspects. I love everything on this SUV.

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  Lexus GX470 is a winner! - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By Lisa Lockhart - March 7 - 2:00 am

  We just purchased our GX470 a week ago. This is our 1st Lexus. The whole buying experience was like no other. We were pampered, and will be in the future too. Lexus will even come to pick up vehicle should we ever need service on it and bring a Lexus for me to drive if I need it. Hows that for customer service? I love this vehicle.Drives like a dream...quiet, lots of supple leather and beautiful wood. Very elegant inside and tons of "bells and whistles" w/nav. system, DVD player, fun to drive!!!!

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  Would buy another one in a heartbeat - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By Rocky Mountains - March 4 - 5:40 am

  Wonderful car. 40,000 miles, never needed service except for oil changes and regular maintenance. Rides extremely comfortable like you are floating on air but still handles extremely well off-road. Considered a Lexus LX470, RX350, Infiniti FX45, BMW X5, Land Rover LR3 and VW Toureg.

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  Lexus Lies - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By Dissatisfied - February 24 - 10:00 am

  I bought my GX during the Lexus Golden opportunity Day. I was told that there were no incentives on the GX. But I found out later that that was not true. Lexus has decided to drop the prices on the GX by making the worthless 3rd seat a N/C item on the last of the 2004 models. So, I lost $2000 by buying during the Lexus golden opportunity days. Beware these guys are tricky and they Lie. Go buy a Sequioa or Infiniti.