2022 Lexus GX 460 Blackline: A Closer Look

GX 460

The popular Lexus GX 460 continues for 2022. Changes have been minimal, but we did get the new optional Blackline edition. This cosmetic package includes 18-inch six-spoke blacked-out alloy wheels, black exterior paint, black interior, black leather, black window trim, black edge tail lights, and a black roof rack. Did we mention it comes in black? The tab for this adds $3,635 to the base $55,425 start fee. With all extras, the total was $61,305.

Text and photos by Chad Haire

ROOF RACK

The roof rack is great for hauling extra gear. However, when empty, it creates a lot of wind noise at freeway speeds and is best removed when not in use. This is easy to do.

TIRES

The Blackline pack comes with tires better suited for pavement than the dirt, but with the standard 4x4 equipment issued on the GX 460, this is not a problem as we shall see.

4x4

The full-time four-wheel-drive system has high or low range at a twist of this dash-mounted knob.

LOCKING DIFFERENTIAL

This locking differential button gives better traction for serious situations.

OFF-ROAD

While the GX 460 is comfortable on the street, it has an amazing ability for going into the dirt. This is a hardcore off-road SUV, with a rugged ladder frame, and proven abilities.

ENGINE

Under the hood is a reliable 4.6 liter V-8 cranking 301 horsepower, and hooked to a 6-speed automatic transmission. This is a heavy vehicle, so the listed fuel economy is claimed to be 15/19 mpg. This is what we observed in a week of street driving. Heavy off-road 4x4 mileage dropped this to 12/13 mpg.

RUNNING BOARDS

The GX comes standard with running boards for easy step entry into the cabin. It is well integrated into the body and does not interfere with off-pavement use.

TOUCH PAD

All info screen procedures can be controlled through this finger touchpad. It can be awkward to use at first, and since it is located on the other side of the transmission shift knob can make it difficult for some drivers to reach. But this is no longer a problem because this new 2022 version allows all functions to also be performed directly on the info screen itself, also by finger touch. So now there are two choices of operation, making everyone happy.

INFO SCREEN

The infotainment screen is large, easy to reach, with excellent image quality. The climate controls are simple to operate.

REAR DOOR

The GX 460 is one of the few SUV's out there with a sideways rear door. It swings out to the passenger side. This is great in England where people drive on the left side of the road, and load/unload gear on the left curb. But in North America, where driving and parking has the curb on the right, loading cargo can be awkward because the door gets in the way. Still, this is a popular setup due to the door designs ruggedness, which makes it rattle free. It is also quicker to open and close. Most GX owners seem to like this setup.

POV

The Lexus GX 460 is a true do-everything vehicle. It is practical for city commuting, very comfortable on long trips, yet has amazing abilities when taken off the pavement. The price is reasonable, with proven reliability, and durable construction. This is also a good choice if searching for a quality used vehicle.

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