Jb343

I don't understand why automatic mirrors aren't available on all trim levels. Why just the premium? It should be standard. Even cheap cars have automatic mirrors. That's a little disappointing. Especially nowadays when parking spots get smaller and smaller......
I know it's not a GX...but I have auto folding mirrors and heated and cooled seats on my 2004 LS430.....and its a base model.

hzhao

There are many reasons and decisions in terms how to market a particular vehicle into the market. For GX, it was never marketed as a true “Luxury” vehicle, rather a true off road capable vehicle for those just wanted to stay in Lexus family. Just as most of us on this forum, we will take the vehicle apart, add and modify to suit various purposes of the vehicle. On the other hand, LS430 and even RX350 buyers are more focused on “luxury” aspects of the vehicle, and most of all, will never even consider to modify anything other than washing and waxing.

with that said, I do agree that being a Lexus, it should have included some basic “luxury” items to be unified and consistent through the full line of vehicles.

John00

manufacturers need to have a certain level of separation between models AND trim levels. at the early stages of a program, estimates are made on sales vs options. then the profits are calculated. without enough differentiation you can't maximize profits by grouping some higher profit less wanted options with those that the majority would want. meaning if you can a la carte whatever or you give the most wanted options as part of the less expensive package then theres too low sales projections on the higher end trim choices.

exactly opposite but equally important is that manufacturers want to have a less expensive base model to compete with other brands and to compete with other models or trim levels.

the profit loss calculations are performed and decisions made on what options are in which packages and how much they will cost. at this point in the program there are also trim levels that get eliminated and never to be seen by customers.

Vlad6525

Did you know that Lexus removed passenger side auto-dimming mirror function on the GX starting with 2021 MY...? They had dual auto-dimming mirrors standard on every 2010-2013 Premium grade and on 2014-2020 it was standard with any trim or package that offered power folding mirrors. MY 2020 refresh had them... And in 2021 they decided to remove the passenger side dimming function - only left it on driver side. When I called corporate about it they gave me the most asinine reason behind it "due to customer feedback"! Really? I want to see those "maroons" who called and complained about not being able to be blinded by an F250s here in TX that pass everyone in the right lane at 90mph! This was an incredibly cheap move by Lexus - one that probably saved them less than $100 in the production! It's one thing if this function was never available, like for example on a 2003-2009 GX470, but they added it since 2010 on the higher trim levels, so why remove it in 2021 is beyond my humble comprehension.

CFAI

Eh, I don't know. I think this forum isn't really representative of the bulk of New GX buyers - esp down here in TX. I don't think there are really that many, as a share of total owners, esp new buyers, that are modifying anything.
To me the GX's fit and finish seem more in line with the LandCruiser 200, rather than as a stablemate of the LX570. The LC200 was a bit too luxurious for the Toyota brand and the post '14 base model GX is perhaps is a bit under luxuried for a Lexus.