Lexus GX — BrandWiki

Lexus GX

Overview

Third generation

model code	J250‡R42R‡
aka	Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (J250)
production	November 2023 – present‡R43R‡
model years	2024–present
platform	TNGA: GA-F
related	Toyota Land Cruiser (J300) Lexus LX (J310) Toyota Tacoma (N400) Toyota 4Runner (N500)
engine	Gasoline: 3.4 L V35A-FTS twin-turbo V6 (GX 550; VJA252)‡R44R‡ Gasoline hybrid: 2.4 L T24A-FTS turbo I4 (GX 550h; TJH252)
transmission	8-speed automatic (2.4 L hybrid) 10-speed "Direct Shift" automatic (3.4 L)
drivetrain	Parallel (GX 550h)
battery	1.87 kWh, 6.5 Ah, 288 V NiMH (GX 550h)
length	4950 mm
width	1980 mm 2000 mm (Overtrail)
height	1865 mm
wheelbase	2850 mm
weight	NNNN kg

The Lexus GX (レクサス・GX) is a mid/full-size luxury SUV sold in North American and Eurasian markets by Lexus, a luxury division of Toyota. The GX is based on the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, from which it derives its off-road capability.

Lexus introduced the first generation, known as the GX 470 in 2002, and subsequently became the third SUV to enter the Lexus lineup. A full-time four-wheel drive system is standard with low-range gearing. The 4.7-liter V8 engine in the GX 470 was the same as used on the larger LX 470. The firm next introduced the second-generation model in 2009, badged GX 460 to reflect the switch to a 4.6-liter V8 engine. Lexus later released a lower displacement GX 400 in 2012 for the Chinese market, with a 4.0-liter V6 engine. The third-generation model introduced in 2023 uses the GX 550 moniker with a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine and GX 550h with a turbocharged hybrid electric 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine.

As of 2024, the GX is positioned between the larger LX or TX and the smaller RX

First generation (J120; 2002)

Lexus introduced the GX 470 at the North American International Auto Show in January 2002 as a 2003 model, with sales commencing in November 2002. The GX development program began in 1999 following the J120 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado in 1997, with design work by Shoichi Fujiyoshi concluding in the first half of 2000.[9] The suspension shared its layout with the Toyota 4Runner equipped with the rear air suspension, while adding Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) and Downhill Assist Control (DAC). AVS could adjust damper firmness continuously while DAC modulated descents down slopes. Power came from a 4.7-liter, 32-valve, four-cam 2UZ-FE V8 engine originally rated at 235 hp at 4,800 rpm and 320 lbft of torque at 3,400 rpm. Towing capacity was rated at 5000 lb for the 2003 model year. Midway through the 2004 model year, the GX received an upgraded towing capacity of 6500 lb with the addition of a much stronger frame-bolted tubular hitch. Ground clearance measured 8.3 in, with an approach angle of 30° and a departure angle of 29° raised (25° normal).[10] The GX 470 carried a .[11]

The interior came equipped with two rows of seating, while an optional third row allowed up to eight passengers to be carried. However, the folding third row was tight with only 24.9 in of legroom. A Mark Levinson audio system along with a Rear Seat Entertainment System were available as options. A side-opening rear tailgate was standard.[11]

In 2003, for the 2004 model year, the GX 470's transmission was upgraded to a sealed unit with no dipstick. An optional Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) became available as a late-year addition. KDSS freed and adjusted the vehicle's stabilizer bars for greater articulation allowing the wheels to move with less restriction over uneven terrain, and used front and rear hydraulic pressure-sensing valves and larger stabilizer bars to reduce body roll during on-road conditions.[12] Safety upgrades for 2004 included a roll-sensing feature for the side curtain airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system, and an optional rear backup camera system.[13]

In 2004, for the 2005 model year, the GX 470's engine gained 35 hp with the addition of VVT-i for a total of 270 hp.[13] This allowed the SUV to be certified as an Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEV II) in the U.S. Other upgrades included an enhanced navigation system, Bluetooth compatibility, and more voice commands. A Sport model joined the lineup, including the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and different styling such as smoked bezel headlamps, added chrome trim, and black birdseye maple wood.[14][15]

In 2005, for the 2006 model year, changes in SAE engine testing procedures resulted in a slight drop in the amount of stated power for the V8 to 263 hp, and Lexus Link telematics was offered in North America.[13] For 2007, the GX 470 was largely unchanged, with upgrades for cabin electronics including a new generation navigation system, auxiliary input jack for devices like an iPod, DVD video playback when parked, and larger optional rear entertainment video screen.[16]

Finally, in 2007, for the 2008 model year, the GX 470 received styling updates, including a dark metallic grille, liquid graphite wheels, added exterior and interior chrome, revised turn signal lights, and added wood and body color options.[17]

The Lexus GX has won various awards including "Four Wheeler of the Year" in 2003 and 2004 from Four Wheeler Magazine, and Automobile Magazine All-Star for 2003 in the Mid-Size Sport-Utility category.[18] J.D. Power and Associates named the GX 470 the highest ranked premium luxury SUV in initial quality in 2005,[19] and Kelley Blue Book gave the GX 470 its Best Resale Value Award in 2006.[20]