2003-2008 Lexus GX 470: Full Review

Updated: 11/23/08

2003 Lexus GX470
2008 Lexus GX 470
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2003-2008 Lexus GX 470 ▼

  • Price Range:  $19,300 - $41,400
CG Rating

60

out of 100

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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2003-2008 Lexus GX 470 and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.

Pros

  • Cargo room
  • Passenger room
  • Build quality

Cons

  • Fuel economy

Vehicle Highlights

Lexus added a third luxury sport-utility vehicle for 2003, to fill the gap between its car-based RX 300 and truck-type LX 470. The GX 470 shared a new body-on-frame design with the redesigned 2003 4Runner from parent company Toyota. Its V8 and five-speed automatic transmission also were found in the 4Runner, as well as the 2003 LX 470. So was the standard all-wheel-drive system, with low-range gearing and a locking center differential. Unique to the GX was Lexus's new Downhill Assist Control, which automatically applied the brakes to limit speed down steep grades. Also included was Hill-start Ascent Control, which could hold the vehicle in place on an incline for five seconds. Standard features included 17-inch wheels, antilock four-wheel disc brakes with full-power assist, and an antiskid/traction control system. In addition to front torso side airbags, the GX 470 had curtain side airbags for the first two seating rows. Also included were a self-leveling rear air suspension, height-adjustable suspension, and automatic shock-absorber control within four driver-selectable modes. Further imitating big-brother LX were standard leather upholstery, automatic climate control, an in-dash CD changer, driver-seat memory system, and lighted running boards. Unlike 4Runner, the GX 470 offered a third-row bench seat for up to eight-passenger capacity, the same as the LX. The GX had a swing-open tailgate with fixed glass, versus the 4Runner's liftgate with power-opening window. Options included a navigation system, premium Mark Levinson audio, heated front seats, rear air conditioning, and a rear DVD entertainment system. A sunroof and rain-sensing windshield wipers also were available. Maximum towing capacity was 5000 pounds (6500 with the optional towing package). GX rivals included the Acura MDX, Cadillac SRX, and Mercedes-Benz M-Class.

Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)

Category GX 470 w/navigation system Rating
Performance 6
Fuel Economy 4
Ride Quality 4
Steering/Handling/Braking 4
Quietness 6
Controls/Materials 7
Interior Room 8
Room/Comfort (rear) 7
Cargo Capacity 8
Value within Class 6
Total Score: 60
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2003-2008 Lexus GX 470. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2003-2008 Lexus GX 470.

Year to Year Changes


2004 Lexus GX 470: As the 2004 model year opened, the GX 470 stood pat, until several new features appeared early in the calendar year. A tire-pressure monitor joined the standard-equipment list at midseason, along with a roll-detection sensor for the head-protecting first- and second-row curtain side airbags. Also at midyear, Lexus's Kinetic Dynamic Suspension became optional. It used sensor-activated electro-hydraulic couplings that temporarily "released" the antiroll bars as needed to improve comfort and stability on rough surfaces. Starting at midseason, the optional navigation screen also served as a monitor that displayed a rear view when Reverse gear was selected.
2005 Lexus GX 470: More power marked the 2005 model, as the V6 engine gained 35 horsepower. Hill ascent/descent control was designed to maintain a slow, steady speed on steep grades.
2006 Lexus GX 470: New for 2006 was optional Digital Lexus Link assistance/concierge service.
2007 Lexus GX 470: GX 470 carried over unchanged.
2008 Lexus GX 470: The 2008 Lexus GX 470 was largely unchanged.

Our road test for the 2003-2008 Lexus GX 470 includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2003-2008 Lexus GX 470 and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2003-2008 Lexus GX 470 is right for you.

Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation

Strong but not neck-snapping performance is the rule, as the GX 470 accelerates to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds. In this exceptionally smooth powertrain, the transmission downshifts quickly for decent passing punch. Naturally, the added power for 2005 should improve acceleration slightly. In terms of economy, test examples have averaged 15.4 to 16.2 mpg overall, hitting a low of 11.8 mpg in exclusively city driving. Lexus recommends 91-octane premium fuel. Truck-based roots are evident in the GX's slightly bouncy behavior, plus occasionally wobbly feel on blemished surfaces. The driver-adjustable suspension feels too floaty when set to Comfort mode, too jittery in Sport mode, and only adequately absorbent in Semi-Comfort and Semi-Sport modes. This SUV leans noticeably in turns, but does not feel tippy. Steering is nicely weighted and accurate, but lacks road feel. Hill ascent and descent assists can be useful off-road. Brake performance is fine, despite fairly marked nosedive in simulated panic stops. Expect a muted growl during full acceleration. Wind buffeting occurs at over 55 mph, and coarse-surface tire noise is evident. Big electroluminescent gauges are easy to read. Climate controls are a stretch for some drivers. Lexus' navigation system is easier to use than most, though the screen can wash out in sunlight, especially with the sunroof open. Fit and finish are excellent, and materials are mostly top-notch, though some cabin plastics disappoint at these prices. High commanding seating, a standard power tilt/telescoping steering wheel and power front seats provide a range of comfortable positions. Plenty of room is available for all but the tallest occupants, but wide rear roof pillars hamper visibility. Optional third-row seats stow against the sides, obscuring even more. Steep step-in and running boards can hinder more than help entry/exit. Second-row occupants get plenty of head, leg and toe room, though the seat is too low for best thigh support and the middle rider straddles a hard driveshaft hump. Children are the best match for the cramped, hard-to-access third row. Cargo space is generous with the second row folded, though it does not drop flush for an even load floor. The GX 470 lacks the convenience of a fold-into-the-floor third row. Seats stow against the sidewalls, and must be removed for best utility. Cargo liftover is low, but utility would be enhanced if the cargo door opened from curbside and had roll-down glass. Small-items cabin storage also falls short.
Value for the Money
The GX 470 is roomier than an Infiniti FX or BMW's X5, though not as sporty. More modern than the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, it's no larger inside. The quality and red-carpet dealer service associated with the Lexus brand help this embellished 4Runner compete in the luxury SUV field. Still, car-based rivals such as the Acura MDX and Lexus' own RX 330 are more sensible choices overall.

Expert Ratings Summary

Category GX 470 w/navigation system Rating
Performance 6
Fuel Economy 4
Ride Quality 4
Steering/Handling/Braking 4
Quietness 6
Controls/Materials 7
Interior Room 8
Room/Comfort (rear) 7
Cargo Capacity 8
Value within Class 6
Total Score: 60

Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room, Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Lexus GX 470 includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Lexus GX 470 .

Trouble Spots

Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.

Air conditioner: The A/C may not cool sufficiently on vehicles with dual systems requiring installation of numerous parts supplied in a repair kit. (2003-06)

Air conditioner: Snapping or popping noises from the rear air conditioner unit require that the expansion valve be replaced. (2004)

Doors: The right side door check may prevent the door from fully opening and may damage the window channel if the window is open. (2003-07)

Doors: If the rear door becomes difficult to open, a redesigned lock assembly needs to be installed. (2003-04)

Doors: The running board clips come loose and redesigned clips are available to retrofit. (2003-04)

Exhaust system: Excessive sulfur odors from the exhaust are eliminated by reprogramming the engine control computer (PCM) and replacing the catalytic converter. (2003-04)

Mirrors: The outside rearview mirrors may not return to their memory position requiring a revised mirror actuator. (2003-06)

Suspension noise: A clunking noise from the rear when coming to a stop is corrected by installing a revised driveshaft. (2003-04)

Water leak: Water leaks into the vehicle height control compressor solenoid requiring installation of improved compressor assembly. (2003-04)

Windows: On some early build vehicles the power window may close then open half-way when using the auto up feature requiring replacement of the window switch with an improved unit. (2003)

Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs

This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.
Item Name Repair Cost
A/C Compressor $880
Alternator $570
Automatic Transmission or Transaxle $2,995
Brakes $460
Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing $0
Constant Velocity Joints $4,440
Exhaust System $690
Radiator $710
Shocks and/or Struts $3,240
Timing Chain or Belt $905
Our price chart for this generation Lexus GX 470 details a range of prices in year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Prices Good Average Poor
2008
GX 470 $41,500-44,000 $39,000-41,400 $30,300-32,100
2007
GX 470 $36,500-39,000 $33,900-36,300 $25,900-27,700
2006
GX 470 $32,000-34,000 $29,800-31,600 $22,400-23,800
2005
GX 470 $28,000-30,000 $26,000-27,900 $19,000-20,400
2004
GX 470 $24,500-26,500 $22,800-24,600 $15,900-17,200
2003
GX 470 $21,000-22,700 $19,300-20,900 $13,700-14,800
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings; engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo, etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from region to region.
Specs for this generation Lexus GX 470 include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.

Vehicle Dimensions

Specification 4-door wagon
Wheelbase, in. 109.8
Overall Length, in. 188.2
Overall Width, in. 74.0
Overall Height, in. 73.0
Curb Weight, lbs. 4675
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 77.5
Standard Payload, lbs. --
Fuel Capacity, gals. 23.0
Seating Capacity 8
Front Head Room, in. 41.0
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 41.8
Rear Head Room, in. 40.4
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 36.8

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Powertrain Options and Availability

Lexus' 4.7-liter, dual-overhead-cam V8 engine produced 235 horsepower, mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. Output rose to 270 horsepower for 2005. Every GX 470 has all-wheel drive.
Engines Size liters /
cu. in		 Horse- power Torque Transmission:
EPA city/hgwy		 Consumer Guide Observed
dohc V8 4.7 / 285 235 320 5-speed automatic: 15/18 5-speed automatic: 16.2
dohc V8 4.7 / 285 270 330 5-speed automatic: 15/19 5-speed automatic: --

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Built In:  Japan
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/all-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Lexus GX 470 include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.

NHTSA Crash-Test Results

Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.


No Recall History is available at this time.


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