A Closer Look at the 2020 Lexus GX460 Luxury SUV

Vehicle

The Lexus GX460 continues on with few changes, but since the current offering performs well, there is little demand to alter it. The main selling feature is versatility. This is a true luxury machine, with nice leather trim, a great sound system, quiet ride, and fantastic build quality. Yet it has all the equipment to take extended journeys off-pavement, even on your roughest trails. This is a truly multipurpose vehicle.

Text and photos by Chad Haire

Engine

Under the hood is a proven 4.6 liter V-8 putting out 301 horsepower, and it does a fine job of pulling this 2.5-ton mass. Fuel economy is listed at 15/19 mpg with a premium blend. The only transmission offered is a 6-speed automatic. While not as high tech as the 7-10 speed gearboxes we see on other SUV brands, it is bulletproof and will last long after the warranty has expired.

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Controls

Here are the buttons and knobs that make the GX capable when going off the pavement. We get four-wheel-drive low range gears, limited-slip locking differential, crawl control, and a suspension that can be raised for better ground clearance. Back on the pavement, a drive mode select knob has SPORT, NORMAL, and COMFORT settings.

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Wheels

The 19-inch wheels on all-season tires is not the most aggressive setup for serious off-roading, but overall, the GX 460 is still very capable in the dirt. This rubber does assist with a smooth ride on the street.

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Door

The rear door swings to the side. This has advantages and disadvantages depending on the loading requirements. It is certainly unique among SUVs sold today.

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Steps

Running boards assist the passengers in vehicle entry.

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POV - Street

On the open road, the GX is pleasant to drive. Wind noise is low, the ride is smooth, and driving position is high, allowing a wide view of the road. A 17-speaker 330 watt stereo is available for an extra $1,145 and worth it, as it makes those long trips a pleasure.

>>Join the conversation about this look at the GX460 right here in the Club Lexus forum.

POV – Off Road

Once the GX leaves the pavement, it fits right in. The massive weight allows for a beefed frame and solid body, free of squeaks or rattles. When set in the SPORT mode, stability is excellent when going at high speeds on soft dirt roads. Rock crawling is a breeze when set in the proper mode.

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Price

The base price of $54K is reasonable, but most GX 460 models you find at the dealer are loaded up with goodies. This example certainly is, with a tab of $73K. Charging an extra $285 for a cargo net that should be standard on a vehicle costing this much is unusual, however.

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Vehicle

The GX460 is a do-anything rig. It can be taken out in the dirt, and crawl over the roughest terrain. Yet after a wash job, taken to the local country club, and parked next to the luxury cars where it will fit right in.

>>Join the conversation about this look at the GX460 right here in the Club Lexus forum.

For help with your do-it-yourself maintenance and repair projects, please visit our how-to section in the forum.