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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Dependability & Reliability - 2005 Lexus GX 470
By woodpecker - March 18 - 7:43 pmI have only had this vehicle for a short time however it is typical Lexus quality-build. Gas mileage is not the best but better for an engine of this size and class of SUV, something I realized when buying. The sound system is excellent and optional sport edition adds an extra flare each time I get inside. Lexus dependability/safety/durability/peace of mind is something that comes standard with the MSRP...
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My Lexy - 2004 Lexus GX 470
By lux2u - March 7 - 2:06 pmLove my 2004 GX470. I have never had any major issues, just normal maintenance. I would highly recommend this SUV - not too big, not too small, not great gas mileage, but not bad, just an all around great car. Very comfortable and a great ride. Despite all the issues with Toyota, I would buy this car again...especially if they change the rear door!
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More Practical Interior Cabin Design - 2007 Lexus GX 470
By pkt0084 - March 5 - 6:30 pmPurchased it new in May 2007 with 4 miles on it (now has 4300+ miles). Traded in our Mercedes ML430 which was purchased new in June 1999. I drive my daughter everywhere in the Lexus & as a mom here are my annoyances: uncomfortable arm rest, not enough/poor center compartment design, unreachable CD-changer in glove compartment, shallow/poor location of front cup holder, inaccessible cup holders for rear seats when baby car seat is used in the center, rear seat A/C but not heat, swing open tailgate vs. lift-up, can only power on sound (not video) from front console for entertainment system - must use remote control to power on. No issues with technical & mechanical aspects whatsoever!
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My Luxury Utility Vehicle - 2005 Lexus GX 470
By Donna - February 29 - 5:30 amMY "LUV" rides like a plane. On a recent trip the ride was so smooth (we have the worst roads in LA) I had to remember it was a freeway and not the airway. Love the looks I get at stop signs, red lights, etc. Started to purchase a Tahoe. Started reading the reviews on the GX470 on this site and had to test drive. Our city does not have a Lexus dearship, had to travel 125 miles to test drive. It was well worth the trip. The test drive had me sold, didnot want to leave the GX, but had not come prepared to buy. Within the week, we went back and drove our GX home. Once you drive or ride--youre hooked. So glad I made the purchase-- always looking for somewhere to go so I can drive it.
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Drive it and Youll Love it. - 2004 Lexus GX 470
By Akros - February 16 - 2:00 amA quality vehicle that leaves little to ask for even in the base model. It can be expected to hold value. With a smooth ride and comfortable interior this "heavy" SUV gets good MPG for its weight,shape and V-8 engine. Handling is good. Entry/exit using running boards can be cumbersome. Fit/finish, both in and out, is typical high quality Lexus. Stock highway tires? Switch to Michelin X- Country tires which, in my opinion, should come standard on this type of vehicle. Flush folding rear seats would be a welcome design change. Like the rear door, a "door/gate" that would permit rear door to convert into a tailgate would be welcome. Overall..Great SUV
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Great - 2005 Lexus GX 470
By Roger108 - February 7 - 4:16 amThe vehicle is the best! I recommend it to anyone who is looking for a comfortable ride in a SUV. THe interior and exterior are very nice!
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GX470 - 2003 Lexus GX 470
By yp213 - January 21 - 2:00 amIt is an excellent car. Even though it is a big truck, it can pick up the speed quickly and quietly. It is so confortable that some times you just dont want the trip ended. This car has a roomy inter space. The convenience package for the GX470 is another perfect addition to the buyer (You have to pay extra $ to get it on M- class). The only thing bothered me was that I could not get a penny discount on the window price.
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GX 470: great unless you hold the wheel - 2003 Lexus GX 470
By Lee Seidler - January 16 - 10:00 amThe GX 470 is easily the best driving, best handling SUV we have owned. However, there is a vibration in the steering wheel (even noted in the NY Times of 7/6/03. Also loud wind noise drowns out classical music at 60MPH. Interior is great, GPS finds places you could never drive to yourself.
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Love this SUV - 2006 Lexus GX 470
By Car lover! - January 7 - 7:43 amWe just traded in our H2 for this great SUV. This is our first Lexus and we love it. Roomy, great interior and exterior looks ,the GX470 v8 has amazing power. Its got a great turning radius and such a smooth drive. Love the woodgrain steering wheel too, just wish it were heated! It seriously drives like a car.
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Quality Built - 2004 Lexus GX 470
By Bob747 - January 4 - 2:00 amQuiet as a vault Build like a tank Quick for a vechile that is 5000lbs Rides just a nice as the LX, save $10,000 Lose 4" in the back 2" w more head room then most, commanding view of the road! blows away x5, mdx, Aviator,xc90, and the rest. No SUV is perfect, but this one comes close!
