- Competes with: Land Rover LR4, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Audi Q7
- Looks like: The previous GX 470 with styling tweaks here and there
- Drivetrain: 301-hp, 4.6-liter V-8 with six-speed automatic transmission, full-time four-wheel drive
- Hits dealerships: Late December 2009
Lexus’ midsize truck-based SUV, the GX, has been redesigned for 2010. The new luxury SUV features a more powerful V-8 engine, slightly improved gas mileage and revised styling inside and out. For the first time, the GX will be offered in two grades: base, which will carry an MSRP of $51,970, and Premium, which will be priced at $56,765. The MSRP does not include a delivery charge of $875. The all-new GX 460 will be on display for the first time at the L.A. Auto Show in early December. It hits U.S. dealerships in late December.
The 2010 GX 460 retains the tall stance of its predecessor, but new sheet metal and styling cues help update the look. The GX has smooth body sides that are accented by large front and rear fender flares; its new face has an uncanny resemblance to Subaru's redesigned Outback wagon, thanks to similar headlights. Around back, the rear window can be opened independently of the gate.
The GX's new 4.6-liter V-8 makes 301 horsepower and 329 pounds-feet of torque, and it teams with a six-speed automatic transmission. The full-time four-wheel-drive system incorporates a low range that's designed for off-road excursions. The SUV gets an EPA-estimated 15/20 mpg city/highway, which improves upon the old GX 470's 14/18 mpg. Maximum towing capacity is unchanged at 6,500 pounds.
Seven-person seating in three rows is standard. The second-row bench seat can slide forward and backward for optimal legroom, and the seat's backrest also reclines. When more cargo room is needed, the standard power-folding third row folds flat with the floor.
The cabin's appearance has been completely overhauled, and it features a symmetrical dashboard design with a large center control panel finished in a silver-colored trim. Standard features include leather seat trim, heated and ventilated power front seats with a memory feature for the driver, automatic air conditioning, a moonroof, a backup camera and a nine-speaker audio system with iPod connectivity. A navigation system, Mark Levinson audio, backseat entertainment system with two screens and three-zone air conditioning are optional.
Lexus' Pre-Collision System, which can cinch the front seat belts and ready the brakes for stronger stopping performance, is optional. PCS can also be paired with a system that monitors the attentiveness of the driver and will try to warn them of obstacles before automatically braking the SUV.
