2010 Lexus GX460
Lexus Revamps Its Midsize SUV
I find it curious that Lexus continues to go with two truck-based SUVs when the trend is to the more car-like crossovers. Of course, one explanation is that they have readymade Toyota platforms to use. In the case of the GX460, it’s the Toyota 4Runner. But no matter how you dress them up, the body-on-frame SUVs can’t shake their truck heritage. They may be competent off-road, but on pavement, the ride and handling leave a lot to be desired.
The GX460 is Lexus’ midsize luxury sport/ute that slots between the RX350 and the LX570. It has been revamped for 2010. Lexus has equipped it with a new power train and more luxury features.
The exterior bodywork is tasteful, and remains unchanged for 2010. The interior, as in other Lexus models, is attractive and well finished. Leather upholstery, with contrasting stitching, is standard. Real wood trim accents the dash, console and doors. The seats up front are well contoured and supportive. Ditto for the second row. The third row is minuscule, and hard to access. However, these seats are now power operated, and will fold into the floor at the push of a button. Storage space with the third row folded down is fairly limited at 17-cu.-ft.
Under the hood, the GX460 gets a new power train. Lexus now equips it with a 4.6-liter V-8 that pumps out 301 hp., which is a substantial improvement over last year’s motor with 263. The new mill is hooked up to a six-speed automatic, which replaces the old five-speed. Lexus says that the GX will hit 60 in 7.8 seconds. I’m sure this is correct, but it doesn’t feel that quick. The GX comes with full-time all-wheel drive, and can tow a 6500 lb. trailer, but gas mileage only averages 17 mpg.
Like all Lexus models, the GX460 offers a plethora of standard equipment and options. Luxury items, like keyless pushbutton entry and start, heated and ventilated front seats, a backup camera, satellite radio and a moonroof are standard. If you opt for the Premium model, you also get features like, a wood and leather trimmed steering wheel, adaptive headlights, heated middle-row seats, and a rear air suspension.
Of course, there is also an extensive option list too. My test car came with the Navigation/Mark Levinson Audio package. The touch-screen nav system was easy to program, and the Mark Levinson audio with 17 (yes, 17) speakers delivered marvelous sound. Buyers can also order options like, a rear seat entertainment system and the Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Crawl Control.
The GX460’s off-road credentials are bolstered by its Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS). This feature frees up the stabilizer bars to increase suspension travel over rough terrain. The above-mentioned Crawl Control enables the GX to creep up or down hills without driver intervention. Although I didn’t drive the GX460 off-road, I’m sure that like the Toyota 4Runner on which it is based, it is very capable.
However, on the pavement, where people drive most of the time, the handling and ride are marginal. The steering is vague, providing almost no feedback to the driver. The brake pedal is mushy, and the GX wants to run wide in turns. The ride quality does not please either. Although the adaptive sir suspension offered three settings, Comfort, Normal and Sport, none seemed satisfactory. The GX seems to be jiggling or bouncing all the time. Its best asset on the road is its quietness. At highway speeds, the only thing you will hear is a hint of wind noise.
Pricing for the base GX460 is $52,845. The Premium model sells for $57,640. My Premium test car, with the Navigation/ Mark Levinson Audio and a few minor add-ons, had a bottom line of $62,714.
Snapshot Review:
Enhanced Power Train
Loads of Features
Truck-like Ride and Handling
