2008 Lexus GX 470

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By  Marty Padgett, Executive Editor

2008 Lexus GX 470
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The car experts at TheCarConnection.com studied a wide range of road tests (and off-road tests) of the 2008 Lexus GX 470 to compile this conclusive review. TheCarConnection.com's resident off-roaders also drove the new Lexus GX 470 to help you decide which reviews to trust where opinions differ, to add more impressions and details, and to provide you with the best information.

Likes:
- Lexus-quality interior
- Towing capacity
- Surefooted off-road handling

Dislikes:
- Disappointing styling
- V-8 is worked hard by heft Near-useless third-row seat Skimpy leg room in second row
- The 2008 Lexus GX 470 is based on the Toyota 4Runner, but a distinctive look inside and out, and a big new engine, give it passable luxury credentials.

The 2008 Lexus GX 470 is based on the Toyota 4Runner, but a distinctive look inside and out, as well as a big new engine, give it passable luxury credentials.

The big disappointment with the GX 470, however, is that it looks like a scaled up Suzuki XL-7 in profile. The GX's interior is sumptuous in the way a Lexus's interior should be, though. The leather upholstery is rich, the instrumentation lights up with electroluminescent lushness, and the wood veneers look expensive.

Power for the 2008 Lexus GX 470 comes from the familiar 263-horsepower, 4.7-liter, DOHC, 32-valve V-8 that has been a mainstay of Toyota trucks for a decade. The 4.7-liter V-8 is backed by a five-speed automatic transmission that shifts silently and neatly. With 4,675 pounds to slog around, the V-8 has to work hard and can feel taxed. It's not quick, but there's enough thrust aboard to sustain speed in most situations. Lexus rates it to tow up to 5,000 pounds, but don't expect it to haul half that without straining. Fuel economy lags as a result of the heavy-duty use; it gets 14/18 mpg.

The Lexus GX 470's front suspension is an independent system of double wishbones and coil springs, while the solid rear axle uses control arms and (unlike the 4Runner) air springs with adjustable height control. There's good travel at every wheel and a dual-range full-time four-wheel drive system is standard. Off road, the GX470 is surefooted, thanks to all manner of electronic systems meant to help prevent mishaps. On road, the GX is quieter than any 4x4 should be. The steering feels good if not overly communicative, and ride motions are nicely controlled in normal traffic, but heavy crosswinds can be felt.

Elsewhere inside the Lexus GX 470, there's not a great deal of room. The third-row seat is practically useless, but front seat passengers are treated regally, and the second-row seat is well shaped, if not endowed with an overabundance of legroom. Shoulder room is also scant throughout the cockpit. A DVD entertainment system, a navigation system, Bluetooth, and a Mark Levinson sound system are available.

Stability control, anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, and front-seat side and head/curtain airbags are standard. A rear backup camera is included the optional navigation system.

The Bottom Line:
The 2008 Lexus GX 470 brings off-road credentials to the Lexus brand, but its skimpy rear-seat room and sluggish performance tarnish the image.

Other Choices:
If you like the 2008 Lexus GX 470, also consider:

- Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
- BMW X5
- Land Rover LR3

The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is a good deal more expensive than the Lexus GX 470, but it offers three rows of seating and a choice of V-6 and V-8 and diesel engines. The BMW X5 also has three rows of seating, plus a choice of V-6 and V-8 engines. The Land Rover LR3 is the brand's sole three-row sport-utility vehicle, and it also offers V-8 power.

Buying Tip:
The 2008 Lexus GX 470 hasn't been a strong seller, so discounts might be available. However, most of the same mechanical pieces are available in the less expensive Toyota 4Runner, though the high-end sound system and wood trim are offered only in the more expensive SUV.