Matsui

I was originally planning on buying 2005+ model, but because of the price difference, I'm now also considering looking into 2003-2004.

Besides the engine, has anything else changed between these years? If let's say I'm saving ~$4-5k by getting an 04 over a newer model with exact same features and miles, do you think it is worth it? Based on what I've read on the forum, the quality is pritty much the same across all model years.

Please let me know your thoughts. Would you do it?

Thanks.

z0lt3c

iTrader: (1)

The 2005's also have a next generation Nav system which includes bluetooth. There are a few other very minor differences but the engine is really the biggest one.

I drove and 04 and an 05 and I was perfectly satisfied with the performance of the 04. I've also heard the older engine gets slightly better mpg. I was in the same situation and went with the $$ savings on the 04.

zippinbye

I went through the same thought process a bit over 1 year ago. I drove both (actually 2004, 2005 and 2007). I did notice a slight power difference. I bought an 05 for the engine and updated NAV/bluetooth, plus the fact that the only nice Sport Package with KDSS, rear seat entertainment, etc. that I found happened to be a 2005. Any MPG comparisons you see on this forum are likely more anecdotal and unscientific; this is no criticism of posters ... just saying there are so many variables. Unless one reporter has driven both for a sustained period in the exact same manner, well "your results may vary." I will note that 2005 models have a 1 MPG highway advantage over 2004 in the official EPA numbers: 18 vs. 17. In theory, about six percent better. In theory, you have $600 more in your pocket as you approach $10,000 of fuel consumedwith all-freeway driving. In the real world, that could just be an inconsequential and difficult to quantify difference, certainly not worth weighing heavily in a purchase decision. As with most Lexus vehicles, I have found the on board MPG computer to be rather accurate. Other forum posters have not always expressed the same feeling of confidence, but my hand calculated MPG rarely varies from the computer by more than 3 or 4 tenths, and is often identical. If I do not reset for several tanks, it pretty much sticks at 15.3 MPG, which is eerily similar to the EPA 15 MPG combined rating (45% highway/55%city). I'd say I'm biased a bit more toward city driving, probably 65% ... so actually "better than advertised." Average speed per the computer is usually in the mid-twenties. As with my two LS sedans, average speed is closely correlated to MPG. If that computed average speed bumps up for a freeway trip, MPG rises to 18 or 19. If I could actually drive on the freeway at 60 mph (not in my genes!), this rig will do better than 20 MPG on flat ground. Did it once just to say I did, but now I settle for the high teens at 70-75 mph. While my one ton Dodge diesel pick-up truck gets similar or better MPG (and will leave the GX in the dust in a drag race), the GX 470 gets better fuel economy than any other medium to large SUV we have ever driven. And it by far the sweetest full-frame truck I have ever been in. Very rarely do we miss the LS 430 that went away to make room for the GX, and that was a mighty fine automobile.

Bottom line: I don't think otherwise identical 2004 and 2005 GX 470s should be 4-5K apart, but if they are, buy the 04. But as I did, it's worth hunting for the key features that you really want, and I did find one for a great price. But it was a lot of work! Best of luck finding what you want.

eddyprice

As the previous posters noted there are slight differences - engine, navigation & bluetooth between 04 & 05 generations. There are also slight differences between 03 & 04 - side airbag sensors for rollover in 04, backup cameras in most 04s.

I wouldn't hesitate to buy an 04 vs. 05. Decide if it's worth it for you based on price & features. When I was looking I wanted an 05 with KDSS but in the end decided that it was not worth the price difference. My recommendation would be to place a high priority criteria on a GX with a verified service history, preferably Lexus dealer maintained. In theory the dealer will notice any issues that need maintenance and will provide a high standard of service.

Good luck with your search! Be thoughtful & patient.

z0lt3c

iTrader: (1)

I think the best value right now is a low mileage 04 and the next step up I would suggest would be a CPO 06

Matsui

Thanks for your feedback.

As tempting as it is to save with an 03-04, I think I'll focus on finding a reasonably priced 2005+ (unless there is a good valued 03-04 with good service history and low miles) The bluetooth and updated navigation is kind of important, and a more powerful engine is good too.

The fuel consumption is not really a big factor in this decision since it is similar in all models and varies on individual basis

ALAN553

i added the parrot bluetooth in my 04. I have driven a later model, if you think the later has a more "powerful" engine, and is getting up and getting to 60 MPH any faster than an 04, forget it, i have driven both, you cannot tell the difference.