LexusGX 460

　　

2023 Lexus GX 460 Review

byMichael CantuCorrespondent

　　Michael Cantu has worked in the automotive industry since 2014. He has written over 800 car-related articles and tested and reviewed over 100 vehicles over the course of his career. Michael is a contributor at zzdcar and has also contributed to MotorTrend, Digital Trends and InsideEVs. Michael was featured on a few InsideEVs YouTube channel videos on the topic of electric vehicles. Michael was a MotorTrend Car of the Year judge for 2019 and was a driver in MotorTrend's World's Greatest Drag Races 7 & 8.

　　The Lexus GX 460 is an old-school luxury SUV. And that's not just because it's basically the same vehicle introduced way back in 2010, but also because it has an older style body-on-frame architecture and a non-turbocharged V8 engine, which are rare in today's luxury SUV market. However, those attributes, along with a full-time four-wheel-drive system and a clever suspension, give the GX 460 impressive off-road capability. And beyond its off-road prowess, it's a well-built SUV inside and out, boasting a quiet interior with easy-to-use controls. 

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 Lexus GX 460 4dr SUV 4WD (4.6L 8cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$281/mo  for GX 460 Base

　　GX 460 Base

　　4dr SUV 4WD (4.6L 8cyl 6A) - $58,875 MSRPLuxury 4dr SUV 4WD (4.6L 8cyl 6A) (Most Popular) - $69,530 MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　Unfortunately for the GX 460, its age holds it back in many areas. When compared to modern rivals like the Land Rover Discovery and Mercedes-Benz GLE, the Lexus falls short on comfort, technology and fuel efficiency. Overall drivability is subpar, and its cargo area is small behind the third row and can be difficult to use. But if you don't mind these drawbacks and enjoy the GX 460's older feel and distinctive look, it could be the SUV for you. If you need more help deciding, check out our test team's full evaluation in the zzdcar Expert Rating below.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Below Average

　　6.9

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

6.5/10

　　How does the GX 460 drive? The Lexus GX 460 has much going for it but stumbles in key areas. In routine use around town, the GX can feel lethargic owing to its heavy curb weight and an economy-minded throttle pedal and transmission calibration. Emergency braking performance is also disappointing. The stopping distance from 60 mph is the worst in class at 133 feet. Thankfully, low-speed handling maneuvers are easy due to its tight turning circle and light steering effort.

　　The GX has decent on- and off-road handling, but its steering is lifeless and numb. As for going off-road, the GX 460 has a low-range transfer case and a lockable center differential, and the suspension system (KDSS) automatically generates impressive wheel articulation. But ground clearance isn't great, and the overhangs are low. It will be a good choice for second owners willing to add expedition bumpers and a lift kit.

　　

Comfort

7.0/10

　　How comfortable is the GX 460? The Lexus GX 460 is supremely quiet, and the ride is generally smooth without being floaty or buoyant. But ripples and patches in the asphalt often create a mild jostling motion that your passengers might find uncomfortable. Also make sure you test out the seats before you sign on the dotted line. Everyone is different, but our entire staff disliked the seats due to the plank-like seat bottoms in all seating positions.

　　The climate control system's layout is dated, but to its credit, it works exceptionally well. The front seats are heated and ventilated, and the second-row seats are heated. All three rows have air vents, and those in the second row have their own climate controls.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below