Flash Drive

2019 Lexus GX460

April 3, 2019 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 
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Model Tested: 2019 Lexus GX460 Luxury

The 2019 Lexus GX460 is a traditional body-on-frame SUV with lots of off-road muscle.

Engine:4.6-liter V-8, 301-horsepower, 329 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission, full-time four-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 15-mpg city, 18-mpg highway, 16-mpg combined

Base Price: $63,555

As Tested: $66,920

Performance:

Smooth V-8 engine

Locking center differential

Rugged off-road capabilities

The Lexus GX460 is a large, spacious SUV, but as such it isn’t very fuel efficient.

Body overhangs limit approach and departure angles

Smooth highway ride

Thirsty V-8—we didn’t match EPA city fuel economy

6500 pound towing capacity

Adjustable variable suspension

Rear air suspension

Automatic load leveling

Trailer sway control

Comfort:

Spacious interior

Super stretch-out driver legroom

Driver and front passenger legroom is outstanding as is the overall luxury content.

Spacious second row seating

Second row slides for adjusting third row space

Heated outboard second row seats

High quality seats and interior materials

Power lumbar support both front seats

Excellent headroom

Comfy, supportive seats

Heated and ventilated front seats

Rheostat seat temp controls

Heated steering wheel

Power tilt/telescopic column

The third row seats are typical of most third row SUVs–on the small side.

Rich wood and leather steering wheel

Lots of auxiliary controls, but not well marked

Utility:

Unique, side hinged rear door

Rear glass opens independently

7-passenger capacity

10 sturdy grab handles

Rain sensing wipers

Large, deep console bin topped by sliding armrests

Huge front door bins with double bottle notches

When all the seats are folded cargo space is very good, but there is a gap between the second row seats.

Medium size sunroof

Second row HVAC controls

Large cargo capacity

Third row seats fold flat

Minimal space behind third row seats, too tight for grocery bags

Second row seats fold almost flat (slight slope)

WOW Factors:

Power folding 3rdrow seats

Luxury and ruggedness

Grab handles on “A” and “B” pillars

When the third row seats are in use there isn’t much cargo space behind them.

Ten total grab handles

Whines:

Very little storage space behind 3rdrow seats

Heavy drinker; likes gas

Platform is getting a little dated

Locking differential button awkwardly placed behind steering wheel

Bottom Line:

The 2019 Lexus GX460 is a very rugged SUV with traditional body on frame construction. As such the GX460 is a stout off-road performer that inspires great confidence in marginal driving conditions while coddling occupants in comfort and luxury.