2023 Lexus GX 460: All-New Incredible Lexus GX 460 Review, Pricing, and Specs

Posted on

2023 Lexus GX 460 SUV update for the 2023 model year is still small. A new Eminent White Pearl exterior color has been added to the palette, and a Mark Levinson sound system is now standard on the Luxury model.

Additionally, the Black Line Special Edition model returns for a second year with a few revisions of its own, including a new standard 360-degree camera. Line Black which is based on the Premium trim level will be limited to 3,000 copies and only be offered in three versions: Obsidian, the new Eminent White, or Nori Green Pearl, which is exclusive to Line Black.

The GX is an old-school truck-like vehicle with a proper four-wheel drive system and a free-breathing V-8, unlike most other luxury SUVs on the market. That approach brings with it important advantages and major drawbacks.

First, it’s one of the most off-road capable luxury SUVs you can buy. The 4WD system incorporates low clearance into the transfer case for extra torque at low speeds, height-adjustable air suspension provides ample clearance, and terrain-specific traction settings and underbody skidplates make working on tough roads easy. It will also tow up to 6,500 pounds.

That said, most luxury SUV buyers don’t take their vehicles off-road, and the GX suffers on-road. Interior space is tight, fuel economy is pathetic, and the truck-like basics are evident in the way the GX drives. At least the new infotainment system for 2022 is an improvement over the old setup.

Some luxury buyers may be blown away by the GX truck feel and ready-to-go capabilities, but there are other SUVs like the Land Rover Defender that offer the same feel with more refinement or luxury. Crossovers like the Lincoln Aviator provide more space, a superior powertrain, and a more modern driving experience.

Not many mid-size luxury crossovers or SUVs offer the off-road prowess provided by the rugged Lexus GX, which flaunts a bold exterior design spearheaded by a massive grille and flexing space in a well-appointed cabin. It fits in well with the aging body-on-frame platform shared with the Toyota 4Runner, a naturally aspirated V-8, a conventional 6-speed automatic, a two-speed transfer case, and a locking center differential.

While the components may appear simple and old-fashioned, they give the GX the capability it needs to venture off the beaten path, and further out of the tarmac jungle than most of its SUV rivals. There’s a comprehensive Off-Road package that makes it even more capable. If you’re looking for a well-appointed SUV, and off-road capability is a priority, then this Lexus could fit your bill.

However, if you’re going to be spending a lot of time on paved roads, you might want to look elsewhere; this segment has more than two dozen alternatives and most of them are, on the whole, more interesting.

  • HIGHEST
    Moxie off-road, well-appointed cabin space, feature-rich base model.
  • LOWEST
    Gasoline drunk, mediocre acceleration, cramped third-row seating.
  • DECISION
    The Lexus GX is basically a Toyota 4Runner with a plush look and a V-8 instead of a V-6, which means it feels old and creaky until you take it off-road.

2023 Lexus GX 460 Review

The GX is a midpack player in Lexus’ SUV lineup, positioned above the crossovers UX, NX, and RX but below the full-size three-row LX. Lexus introduced the current second-generation GX in 2010, and it shares its underpinnings with the overseas market Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. This is a body-on-frame SUV with proper off-road capability and a naturally aspirated V-8, not your average luxury crossover.

2023 Lexus GX 460

The Lexus GX 460 is an old-school luxury SUV. And that’s not only because it’s essentially the same vehicle introduced back in 2010, but also because it has an older body-on-frame architectural styling and a non-turbocharged V8 engine, which is rare in today’s luxury SUV market.

However, those attributes, along with a full-time four-wheel drive system and intelligent suspension, give the GX 460 impressive off-road capabilities. And beyond its off-road prowess, it’s a well-built SUV inside and out, with a quiet interior with easy-to-use controls.

  • The GX Premium-based Black Line Special Edition gets a 360-degree camera system, new white paintwork, additional black exterior accents, and gray leatherette seats.
  • Claret Mica paint is no longer available
  • The GX Luxury gets premium audio as standard
  • Impressive off-road capability in most segments without it
  • The high seating position provides a good view of the road
  • Easy-to-use controls
  • The Black Line Special Edition model gets a 360-degree camera system
  • The Luxury trim is now equipped with a Mark Levinson audio system
  • Part of the second generation GX 460 introduced for 2010

Unfortunately for the GX 460, its age holds it back in many areas. When compared to modern rivals such as the Land Rover Discovery and Mercedes-Benz GLE, Lexus loses out in terms of comfort, technology and fuel efficiency.

Overall rideability is subpar, and the cargo area is small behind the third row and can be difficult to use. But if you don’t mind these flaws and enjoy the aged feel and signature look of the GX 460, this could be the SUV for you.

2023 Lexus GX 460 Specs

  • Body style: SUV
  • MSRP: From $56,425
  • Engine: 4.6 L V8
  • Dimensions: 192″ L x 74″ W x 74″ H
  • MPG: 15 City / 19 Highway
  • Cargo volume: 11.6 ft³, 64.7 ft³ with seat area

READ NEXT: Don’t miss out: New 2024 Lexus ES 350 Luxury Car Review

2023 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition

Lexus is first adding Black Line trim to their GX SUV for the 2022 model year. The luxury automaker has now announced that the trim will return for the 2023 model year as the Black Line Special Edition. This model will be limited production and has a few additional items compared to last year’s offering.

Lexus has only built 3,000 units of the new GX 460 Black Line SE, building it off the Premium model. The GX Black Line now comes standard with the bird’s eye Panoramic View Monitor camera system. Lexus has also expanded its exterior color palette to include the new Eminent White Pearl, accompanying Obsidian and Nori Green Pearl (exclusive to the Black Line).

Visually, Lexus added dark colors to the GX’s skid plate, grille, fog lights, roof spoiler and shark fin. At the rear, the SUV’s clear taillights receive black inserts, while unique 18-inch glossy black alloy wheels sit on the legs. Moving inside, the model gets a black headliner, gray stitching and Black Matte Ash Wood trim on the steering wheel.

Lexus also offers new accent seats with Boulder Gray NuLuxe trim. The GX Black Line will still use the naturally aspirated 4.6-liter V8 engine, which produces 301 horsepower (221 kilowatts) and 329 pound-feet (446 Newton-meters) of torque. All-wheel drive is standard across the range, and the engine is paired to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The large SUV can reach 60 miles/hour (96 km/h) in 7.8 seconds, according to Lexus. Other changes to the GX lineup are not too significant. The automaker changed the exterior color of the Starfire Pearl to Eminent White Pearl while removing the Claret Mica for the 2023 model.

The GX 460 in Luxury trim now comes standard with the Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound Audio System. According to the Lexus website, the 2023 GX starts at US$57,575 for the entry-level model. While the Black Line Special Edition has a price of 62,310 US dollars. All are included in the destination fee.

2023 Lexus GX 460 Interior Comfort, and Cargo

Lexus gave the GX its last full redesign in 2010, which may be one reason for its dated cabin appearance. The interior is wood and leather which looks luxurious, but there are also some hard plastics that seem out of place in a vehicle in this price range. Front-row passengers enjoy pleasant accommodations and a high seating position, but the second-row seats are surprisingly flat and hard, and the third-row is a tight space best left for the kids.

2023 Lexus GX 460

To its credit, the GX does an excellent job of keeping road noise out of the cabin, and the interior remains quiet even when the vehicle is driven at high speeds. This Lexus provides 11.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and 46.7 cubic feet behind the second row. With the second and third rows folded, cargo space jumps to 64.7 cubic feet.

The Lexus GX has an interior layout that looks old-fashioned but works well. There’s usually plenty of room, and a good driving position is easy to find. The high seating position provides a reassuring view of the road but makes the stride slightly higher than that of newer SUVs.

The available parking assist makes maneuvering the vehicle in tight parking areas easy, as does the vehicle’s excellent line of sight. The outside mirrors are properly sized and acceptable in both on- and off-road situations.

Even with the larger screen and the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for 2022, there’s no denying that the GX 460’s technological features look and feel outdated. From last-gen map graphics to clumsy trackpad controllers and archaic driver assistants, the GX is a technological disappointment. Additionally, many of the off-road applications found in other luxury SUVs (angle indicators, multiple camera angles, terrain management) are not available or are exclusive to the option package in the top trims.

The second and third-row seats can be folded flat to the floor, but the cargo capacity is not superior in its class. The loading deck of this traditional body-on-frame SUV is rather high, so anyone of smaller stature will have a hard time loading heavier objects. A swing-out rear door blocks curb access. Maximum towing capability is listed at 6,500 pounds, but the winch and cable hitch are dealer-installed accessories and are not integrated from the factory.

READ NEXT: 2024 Lexus LS 500: Next-Gen Lexus LS 500 Ultimate Review

Infotainment and Connectivity

Lexus GX offers a variety of attractive technological facilities. The base model comes with a nine-speaker audio setup and an infotainment system managed by a 10.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Standard Bluetooth connectivity facilitates hands-free phone calls, and all models are equipped with a SiriusXM satellite radio.

The choice of available technology features includes a dual-screen rear seat entertainment system and integrated navigation. The options list also includes a 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, which comes standard on the Luxury model.

2023 Lexus GX 460 Engine

The 2023 Lexus GX continues to offer just one engine: a 4.6-liter V-8 that produces 301 horsepower. It’s not shared with the 4Runner, which is powered by a V-6. The Lexus V-8 is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The Lexus Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System is standard, and this setup aims to improve traction during off-road adventures. During our test, the GX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds.

2023 Lexus GX 460

We’ve tested rival models that are much faster: the Audi Q7 with the available V-6 makes the sprint in 6.1 seconds, and the BMW X5 xDrive50i covers the same distance in less than 4.2 seconds. The GX exhibits relatively smooth handling on paved roads, but there’s an element to it when taken off-road. Its solid base and 8.1 inches of ground clearance make it an excellent choice for buyers who need a vehicle that is comfortable outdoors. The 6500-pound towing capacity supports its versatility.

Performance

There’s only one powertrain option in the GX. Each example is equipped with a naturally aspirated 4.6-liter V-8 engine mated to a six-speed automatic and proper 4WD. The V-8 develops 301 hp and 326 lb-ft of torque, which we’ve recorded motivating the GX to reach 60 mph in 6.9 seconds. Fuel economy is a major weak point in city/highway at only 15/19 mpg.

READ NEXT: Introducing New 2024 Lexus LX Top Luxury SUV Review

Driving

The Lexus GX 460 has a lot going for it but stumbles in key areas. In regular city use, the GX can feel sluggish due to its heavy weight and economical throttle pedal and transmission calibration. Emergency braking performance is also disappointing. The class’s stopping range of 60 mph is the worst at 133 feet. Fortunately, low-speed handling maneuvers are easy to perform due to the narrow turning circle and light steering effort.

The GX has good on- and off-road handling, but the steering is lifeless and numb. Off-road, the GX 460 features a low-range transfer case and lockable center differential, and the automatic suspension system (KDSS) provides impressive wheel articulation. But the ground clearance is not great, and the overhangs are low. It would be a good choice for a second owner looking to add an Expeditionary bumper and lift kit.

The Lexus GX 460 is very quiet, and the ride is generally smooth without bobbing or bobbing. But ripples and patches in the asphalt often create light jostling that might make your passengers uncomfortable. Also, make sure you test the chair before you sign the dotted line. Everyone is different, but our entire staff didn’t like the chair because the base of the chair was like a board in all sitting positions.

The layout of the climate control system is dated, but to its credit, it works surprisingly well. The front seats are heated and ventilated, and the second-row seats are heated. All three rows have air vents, and the second has its own climate control.

2023 Lexus GX 460 MPG Saving and Real World Fuel

In this day and age, even larger SUVs can be fuel efficient. The GX’s combined 16 mpg (15 city/19 highway) rating isn’t great, and our GX 460 test vehicle hovered around that mark, which makes it pretty bad.

2023 Lexus GX 460

The GX isn’t going to win any awards for fuel economy. According to the EPA, this all-wheel-drive SUV achieves a mileage of just 15/19 mpg city/highway. That puts it far behind rival luxury SUVs like the Lincoln Aviator, which gets 17/24 mpg when equipped with all-wheel drive.

During our time with the GX, we observed just 20 mpg during our 200-mile highway fuel economy test—which was part of our comprehensive testing regimen. For more information on GX fuel economy, visit the EPA website

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

The GX is equipped with driver assistance features that can help you avoid accidents such as automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection and lane departure warning. For more information on GX crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

  • Standard automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
  • Standard lane departure warning
  • Standard adaptive cruise control

READ NEXT: New 2023 Lexus ES 350 Luxury Midsize Sedan Review

2023 Lexus GX 460 Price

The base model Lexus GX460 comes with enough standard features to please most buyers in this segment. The SUV uses standard 18-inch wheels and is equipped with exterior amenities such as automatic LED headlamps, daytime running lights, illuminated running boards and power-adjustable side mirrors with integrated turn signals. Ten-way power-adjustable front seats and a power-adjustable tilt and telescopic steering column are available to help you find your ideal position behind the wheel.

The cabin also has standard features such as keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, faux leather upholstery, and auto-dimming mirrors. All GX SUVs come with driver assistance facilities such as blind spot monitoring and lane-keeping assistance.

If you’re going off-road—and traveling on dirt or dirt roads—you should consider the comprehensive Off-Road Package, which includes a transmission cooler, fuel tank guard, Crawl Control, and Multi-Terrain Select; Multi-Terrain Monitors are also available.

  • Base $57,575
  • Premium $58,910
  • Black Line Special Edition $61,000 (est)
  • Luxury $68,230

People also ask Lexus GX 2023

Q: Will Lexus redesign the GX in 2023?
A: For the 2023 model year, the GX 460 will return with some important changes. The exterior color palette received several updates, as the Eminent White Pearl replaced the Starfire Pearl, and the Claret Mica was removed for the 2023 model.

Q: Will Lexus update the GX 460?
A: The Lexus GX 460 SUV update for the 2023 model year is still small. A new Eminent White Pearl exterior color has been added to the palette, and a Mark Levinson sound system is now standard on the Luxury model

Q: Does the GX 460 require premium gas?
A: Some vehicles like the 2022 Lexus ES can run on regular 87-octane fuel while other models like the 2022 Lexus GX require premium 91-octane fuel to give you optimum performance on St. Petersburg roads.

Q: Is gx460 the same as 4Runner?
A: For starters, the Lexus GX 460 is equipped with a 4.6 liter V8, while the Toyota 4Runner is a 4.0 liter V6. It’s hard to beat the engine in the Lexus GX 460. It produces 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, while the Toyota 4Runner will only deliver 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque.