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4dr SUV 4WD (4.6L 8cyl 6A)
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Overall Rating
The new Lexus GX 460 is the new model year version of the full-size SUV and carries its old-world charm into the ever-competitive SUV market. The 2018 GX 460 is pretty much a carryover and does not receive any major updates or changes for the 2018 model year.
The Lexus GX 460 is a 3-row SUV that boasts superfluous looks with comfort. Classy on the inside and divisive on the outside, the GX 460 is blessed with a 4.6L V8 that whilst juicing the 301 ponies available to it produces 329 lb-ft of torque. A little unconventional but welcome addition is the 6-speed automatic transmission mode. The GX series was introduced to the market way back in 2002 and was initially launched as the GX 470 for its first generation that was in existence from 2002 to 2009, the second generation saw the introduction of the 4.6-liter V-8 engine that is also found in the Toyota Land Cruiser(for the Middle East, Australian, and Chinese markets) that lead to the change in the name to “GX 460”.
The GX 460 is a body-on-frame SUV and was recently facelifted in 2013 with the introduction of Lexus’s spindle grille design, new LED headlamps, and LED daytime running lights. The 2018 model carries the same design language without any new additions or tweaks. The Lexus GX 460 is available in three trims, namely the regular GX 460, the GX 460 Premium, and the GX 460 Luxury. Going up against the Audi Q7, BMW X5 and the Land Rover Discovery the Lexus faces stiff competition. Other than a class-leading towing capacity and strong reliability track record, the GX 460 has an uphill task to match itself with its well-updated competition. The Lexus GX 460 has a starting MSRP of $51,680 for the base trim and can go up to $63,380 for the top-end Luxury trim.
The GX 460 Premium trim offers the most value for money as it comes at a small additional cost than the base trim while also being over $10,000 cheaper than the top-end Luxury trim. Unlike the base trim, there are several optional upgrades available with the trim. Also, the standard features available in the Premium trim are sufficient in our opinion.
4dr SUV 4WD (4.6L 8cyl 6A)
4dr SUV 4WD (4.6L 8cyl 6A)
Luxury 4dr SUV 4WD (4.6L 8cyl 6A)
4dr SUV 4WD (4.6L 8cyl 6A)
4dr SUV 4WD (4.6L 8cyl 6A)
4dr SUV 4WD (4.6L 8cyl 6A)
The new Lexus GX 460 is the new model year version of the full-size SUV and carries its old-world charm into the ever-competitive SUV market. The 2018 GX 460 is pretty much a carryover and does not receive any major updates or changes for the 2018 model year.
The Lexus GX 460 is a 3-row SUV that boasts superfluous looks with comfort. Classy on the inside and divisive on the outside, the GX 460 is blessed with a 4.6L V8 that whilst juicing the 301 ponies available to it produces 329 lb-ft of torque. A little unconventional but welcome addition is the 6-speed automatic transmission mode. The GX series was introduced to the market way back in 2002 and was initially launched as the GX 470 for its first generation that was in existence from 2002 to 2009, the second generation saw the introduction of the 4.6-liter V-8 engine that is also found in the Toyota Land Cruiser(for the Middle East, Australian, and Chinese markets) that lead to the change in the name to “GX 460”.
The GX 460 is a body-on-frame SUV and was recently facelifted in 2013 with the introduction of Lexus’s spindle grille design, new LED headlamps, and LED daytime running lights. The 2018 model carries the same design language without any new additions or tweaks. The Lexus GX 460 is available in three trims, namely the regular GX 460, the GX 460 Premium, and the GX 460 Luxury. Going up against the Audi Q7, BMW X5 and the Land Rover Discovery the Lexus faces stiff competition. Other than a class-leading towing capacity and strong reliability track record, the GX 460 has an uphill task to match itself with its well-updated competition. The Lexus GX 460 has a starting MSRP of $51,680 for the base trim and can go up to $63,380 for the top-end Luxury trim.
You can pick among one of the 3 trims available for the triple-seater 2018 Lexus GX 460 SUV. These are namely GX 460, GX 460 Premium, and GX 460 Luxury. The base trim comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, and a rear spoiler as standard features. Moreover, it has vinyl upholstery and 8-way power front seats as standard on the inside.
Trim |
GX 460 |
GX 460 premium |
GX 460 Luxury |
---|---|---|---|
MSRP |
$51,680 |
$52,675 |
$63,380 |
Key Features |
Towing w/Harness and Trailer Sway Control |
Permanent Locking Hubs |
64-Amp/Hr Maintenance-Free Battery |
64-Amp/Hr Maintenance-Free Battery |
Single Stainless Steel Exhaust |
Transmission w/Driver Selectable Mode and Oil Cooler |
|
Hydraulic Power-Assist Speed-Sensing Steering |
Chrome Side Windows Trim and Black Front Windshield Trim |
Laminated Glass |
|
Double Wishbone Front Suspension w/Coil Springs |
Body-Colored Power w/Tilt Down Heated Side Mirrors w/Manual Folding and Turn Signal Indicator |
LED Brakelights |
|
Spare Tire Stored Underbody w/Crankdown |
Fully Automatic Projector Beam Led Low Beam Daytime Running Headlamps w/Delay-Off |
Front Fog Lamps |
|
Radio w/Seek-Scan, Clock, Steering Wheel Controls, Voice Activation, and Radio Data System |
Radio: AM/FM Lexus Premium Audio -inc: 8" touch screen, 9 speakers |
Radio: AM/FM Lexus Premium Audio -inc: 8" touch screen, 9 speakers |
|
Automatic Equalizer |
Window Grid Diversity Antenna |
1 LCD Monitor In The Front |
|
Regular Amplifier |
|||
Real-Time Traffic Display |
The GX 460 Premium trim flaunts automatic wipers, parking sensors, and perforated leather upholstery as standard features. Furthermore, the trim adds the optional navigation system feature and the Sport Design package. The high-end trim i.e. GX 460 Luxury comes with auto-dimming side mirrors, headlight washers, and a steering wheel with the mahogany wood trim as standard.
Additionally, an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system is also available. You also have a wide selection of packages to choose from such as the Accessory Package, the Sport Design Package, the Driver Support Package with Mark Levinson Audio, Premium Package, and Premium Package with Captain’s Chairs.
.We Recommend
The GX 460 Premium trim offers the most value for money as it comes at a small additional cost than the base trim while also being over $10,000 cheaper than the top-end Luxury trim. Unlike the base trim, there are several optional upgrades available with the trim. Also, the standard features available in the Premium trim are sufficient in our opinion.
The 2018 Lexus GX 460 is powered by a 4.6-liter V-8 VVT-i engine that generates 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission mode coupled with a four-wheel-drive system. The full-time four-wheel-drive system is rear-biased and has a 40/60-power split via a Torsen center differential that sends more power to the rear wheels during acceleration.
The GX 460’s Torsen Center Differential system has a true low range, a center differential lock, and a crawl-control feature. Even though it is an old engine, the V-8 is rev-happy and gives out a reminiscing V-8 rumble. The relatively high torque output makes up for the low horsepower readings and manages to keep the vehicle relevant enough. But off all the characteristics, one that stands out is the smoothness and quietness of this engine at cruising speeds making it perfect for long road trips.
Models |
Lexus GX 460 |
Land Rover Discovery SE |
Audi Q7 3.0 TFSI Premium |
BMW X5 xDrive 35i |
---|---|---|---|---|
MSRP |
$51,680 |
$49,990 |
$55,500 |
$56,600 |
Engine |
4.6L V8 DOHC 32V w/Dual VVT-i |
3.0L Supercharged V6 |
3.0L TFSI Supercharged V6 DOHC |
3.0L DOHC I-6 24V TwinPower Turbo |
Transmission |
6-speed shiftable automatic |
8-speed shiftable automatic |
8-speed shiftable automatic |
8-speed shiftable automatic |
Drivetrain |
4WD |
4WD |
AWD |
AWD |
Horsepower |
301 hp @ 5500 rpm |
340 hp @ 6500 rpm |
333 hp @ 5500 rpm |
300 hp @ 5800 rpm |
Torque |
329 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm |
332 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm |
325 lb-ft @ 2900 rpm |
300 lb-ft @ 1300 rpm |
Maximum towing capacity (lbs) |
6,600 |
8,201 |
7,700 |
N/A |
The BMW X5 offers 300 horsepower along with 300 lb.-ft. of torque. The Audi Q7 has 333 hp of power and 325 lb.-ft. of torque to spare. The Land Rover Discovery offers the most-in-league engine power and torque of 340 hp and 332 lb.-ft., respectively. Unlike the 2018 Lexus GX 460, all 3 of its class rivals boast an 8-speed automatic transmission mode.
The 2018 Lexus GX 460 is a slow-starter. The vehicle accelerates to 60 MPH from a standstill in 7.8 seconds and crosses the quarter-mile mark in about 15.8 seconds. These numbers might not sound sufficient but it is plenty for a heavy cruiser like the GX 460. One of the main reasons for this slow acceleration is its class-leading curb weight of over 5,100 pounds while its competition is a lot lighter and has better powertrains.
The GX 460 has a drowsy top speed of 110 miles per hour which is not anywhere near what its competitors are capable of.
Models |
Lexus GX 460 |
Land Rover Discovery SE |
Audi Q7 3.0 TFSI Premium |
BMW X5 xDrive 35i |
---|---|---|---|---|
0-60 MPH |
7.8 seconds |
7.1 seconds |
5.7 seconds |
6.0 seconds |
Quarter mile |
15.8 seconds |
14.7 seconds |
14.9 seconds |
14.6 seconds |
Engine |
4.6L |
3.0L |
3.0L |
3.0L |
Emission (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year) |
11.1 |
9.8 |
8.4 |
8.4 |
The Audi Q7 has the best 0 - 60 MPH time of 5.7 seconds, followed closely by the BMW X5 that clocks the same in 6.0 seconds, leaving the Lexus GX 460 behind with a disappointing 0 - 60 MPH time of 7.8 seconds. The BMW X5 on the other hand, has the best quarter-mile time of 14.6 seconds, with a close call by the Land Rover Discovery and Audi Q7 that manage to do the same in 14.7 seconds and 14.9 seconds respectively.
The 2018 GX 460 is built upon a truck-like body-on-frame for offering a significant off-road performance. As such, it sacrifices some handling and ride quality. Nonetheless, the 2018 Lexus GX 460 has secure handling dynamics. The GX 460's ride quality can be enhanced with the optional adaptive suspension. Particularly, brakes, acceleration, and steering are slow to respond. But again, that's because of Lexus allowing the ride to gain off-road ability in addition to the on-road ability it already boasts.
All the trims come equipped with rear air springs and an electrohydraulic system that combine together to essentially let the wheels communicate with each other as they travel over challenging terrain. As one wheel rises, the system presses down on the opposing wheel for better traction. This system is available as an option on the Toyota 4Runner and comes standard on the Land Cruiser as well. The GX 460 is extremely composed on the highways but does disappoint in the steering response aspect which is extremely slow to respond.
When required to halt abruptly, the GX 460 requires a distance of 132 feet. It does so while decelerating continually from 60 MPH. This is pitiful even for its class. This is partly because of its massive bulkiness of 5,130 pounds., and partly because of the smallest-in-the-league brakes. Talking about the brakes, the Lexus GX 460 is equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes with an anti-lock braking system(ABS).
The front brakes are equipped with 13.3-inch vented discs in the front and 12.3-inch vented disc brakes in the rear. Being a full-sized SUV, the GX 460 is also equipped with some useful braking systems and tech such as Brake Assist, Hill Descent Control, and Hill Hold Control that in the congregation when pushing the vehicle to its limits.
Model |
Lexus GX 460 |
Land Rover Discovery SE |
Audi Q7 3.0 TFSI Premium |
BMW X5 xDrive 35i |
---|---|---|---|---|
Brakes - Front Discs (in.) |
13.3 |
14.2 |
14.8 |
13.7 |
Brakes Rear Discs (in.) |
12.3 |
13.8 |
13.8 |
12.6 |
Curb Weight (lbs.) |
5,130 |
4,751 |
4,938 |
4,735 |
60-0 MPH (ft.) |
132 |
124 |
121 |
129 |
Audi Q7 has the biggest brakes in the competition with the front and rear brakes for the ride measuring 14.8 and 13.8 inches respectively. Moreover, Q7 requires the least-in-league stopping distance of 121 feet. The Lexus GX 460 on the other hand, has the highest stopping distance of 132 feet.
The 2018 Lexus GX 460 is a family-friendly, luxurious ride that features a below average mileage in exchange for its heft. The SUV offers 15 mpg in the city, 18 mpg on the highway, and a combined MPG of 16 miles. These numbers are low, even by full-size SUV standards. However, drive the vehicle judiciously and you can expect a small bump in the MPG numbers. But the one thing that makes up for these low fuel economy numbers is the relatively big 23.0-gallon fuel tank that will at least decrease gas station stops to some degree.
Model |
Lexus GX 460 |
Land Rover Discovery SE |
Audi Q7 3.0 TFSI Premium |
BMW X5 xDrive 35i |
---|---|---|---|---|
MPG (city) |
15 |
16 |
19 |
18 |
MPG (highway) |
18 |
21 |
25 |
25 |
MPG (combined) |
16 |
18 |
21 |
21 |
Fuel Tank Capacity |
23.0 gallons |
23.5 gallons |
22.5 gallons |
22.4 gallons |
Range(City/Highway/Combined) |
345/414/368 |
376/493.5/423 |
427.5/56.5/472.5 |
403.2/560/470.4 |
Both Audi Q7 and BMW X5 deliver a combined fuel economy of 21 miles per gallon of gasoline. Audi Q7 offers the most-in-segment mileage of 19 mpg in the city. For highways, Audi Q7 ties up with the BMW X5 with a mileage of 25 mpg. The Audi Q7 has the highest range offering of 472.5 miles while the Lexus GX 460 has the lowest range offering of 368 miles.
The 2018 Lexus GX 460 is capable of accommodating a total of 7 persons simultaneously which will be cut down to 6 if you opt for the captain’s chairs. While the base trim has NuLuxe synthetic leather trim, the top-end Luxury trim comes equipped with Semi-Aniline leather upholstery. All the trims are equipped with 10-way power-adjustable front-row seats with memory setting function. But if you are looking for a massaging function, the GX 460 is not for you.Â
The ride offers 38 and 41.7 inches of headroom and legroom respectively, in the front. Though the headroom is the least in the competition, it is ample to accommodate adults. All the panels are clad with soft-touch materials for the most part. The Luxury trim takes it up a notch with leather upholstery around the glove compartment, door panels, and center armrest. Overall, all the vehicle’s cabin is comfortable, even with its old-world charm look.
Model |
Lexus GX 460 |
Land Rover Discovery SE |
Audi Q7 3.0 TFSI Premium |
BMW X5 xDrive 35i |
---|---|---|---|---|
Passenger capacity |
7 |
5 |
7 |
5 |
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.) |
38.0/55.4/41.7 |
40.0/60.4/42.4 |
38.4/59.5/41.7 |
39.8/60.5/40.4 |
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.) |
40.4/57.3/34.1 |
39.0/59.5/37.6 |
38.8/58.5/38.8 |
38.3/58.3/36.6 |
Third (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.) |
35.2/54.5/29.3 |
N/A |
35.9/49.4/29.2 |
N/A |
Lexus GX 460 offers 40.4 and 34.1 inches of headroom and legroom in the second row. While the headroom is the maximum available amongst its class rivals, legroom is the least. Headroom and legroom available in the 3rd row are 35.2 and 29.3 inches, respectively. But in terms of overall passenger space, the Land Rover Discovery and the BMW X5 offer the most space.Â
The 2018 Lexus GX 460 has one of the best cabins and interiors in the segment. In non-base trims, most interior surfaces feature authentic wood or soft leather trim. The interiors of the 2018 Lexus GX 460 boasts:
The 8-inch touchscreen display present in the 2018 Lexus GX 460 is quite easy to use. But the main issue is its aged look and functionality that makes it feel redundant when compared to what you would find on its competition; BMW’s iDrive system acting as a fitting example. Nevertheless, the touch interface is smooth and intuitive. It is complemented by a 9-speaker audio system that has a decent sound quality.Â
Other important feats of the infotainment system include 2 USB ports, HD radio, satellite radio, voice support, and a 120V power outlet. Furthermore, there is an optional Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio system available with the GX 460 Luxury trim. Unfortunately, the system is devoid of support for the Apple CarPlay or the Android Auto.
In terms of dedicated cargo space, the Lexus GX 460 offers a paltry 11.6 cubic feet. The GX 460 offers a maximum cargo capacity of 64.7 cubic feet with both the third and second-row seats folded flat. Though it sounds good on paper, it is the least when compared to the competition. Being a full-size SUV, one would expect more cargo space but the GX 460 fails to deliver. The GX 460 offers a good amount of storage bins in the cabin such as a decently sized glove compartment, a big storage bin under the armrest, small storage space in the lower center console, and big door bins to store water bottles.
Model |
Lexus GX 460 |
Land Rover Discovery SE |
Audi Q7 3.0 TFSI Premium |
BMW X5 xDrive 35i |
---|---|---|---|---|
Cargo Volume 3rd row up (ft.3) |
11.6 |
N/A |
14.8 |
N/A |
Cargo Volume 2nd row up (ft.3) |
46.7 |
45.0 |
37.5 |
35.8 |
Cargo Volume 2nd row folded (ft.3) |
64.7 |
82.7 |
71.6 |
76.7 |
The Audi Q7 offers a maximum cargo capacity of 71.6 cubic feet while the BMW X5 offers an even better maximum storage space of 76.7 cubic feet. Land Rover Discovery, however, offers a maximum cargo capacity of 82.7 cubic feet which is the highest in the segment. One thing that the GX 460 can pride itself on is the maximum cargo space of 46.7 cubic feet with the third-row seats folded.
The GX 460 received a styling refresh back in 2014. Since then, not much has changed on the outside. The vehicle is class with a large spindle grille which has become a signature of Lexus’s vehicle lineup. All the trims come with 18-inch alloy wheels, the only difference being that the Luxury trim’s wheels have a liquid graphite finish. The vehicle has a boxy structure which is not as radical as its siblings but does spice up things with its sharp-looking LED daytime running lights.
The box-on-frame design is very much evident when looking at the vehicle's huge wheel wells which do act as an eyesore but is justified when taking its off-roading capability into consideration. Despite being the bulkiest ride among its rivals, the 2018 GX 460 has the least length and width. The GX 460 flaunts a ground clearance and wheelbase of 8.1 and 109.8 inches respectively. While the 2014 refresh changed the front fascia look, the rear end of the vehicle is reminiscent of its old design.
Model |
Lexus GX 460 |
Land Rover Discovery SE |
Audi Q7 3.0 TFSI Premium |
BMW X5 xDrive 35i |
---|---|---|---|---|
Curb weight (lbs.) |
5,130 |
4,751 |
4,938 |
4,735 |
Length(in) |
192.1 |
195.7 |
199.6 |
193.2 |
Width(in) |
74.2 |
81.6 |
77.5 |
76.3 |
Height(in) |
74.2 |
73.0 |
68.5 |
69.4 |
Ground clearance (in) |
8.1 |
8.7 |
8.1 |
8.2 |
Wheelbase (in) |
109.8 |
115.0 |
117.9 |
115.5 |
Track width (in) F/R |
62.4/62.4 |
66.6/66.6 |
66.1/66.6 |
64.7/65.0 |
As mentioned earlier, the GX 460 is the heaviest of the lot, followed by the Audi Q7 that has a curb weight of 4,938 pounds. The Audi Q7 has a length of 199.6 inches which is the highest in the segment, followed by the Land Rover Discovery that has a length of 195.7 inches. In terms of ground clearance, the Land Rover Discovery offers 8.7 inches, while the Lexus GX 460 and the Audi Q7 tie with the lowest ground clearance of 8.1 inches. In terms of exterior features, the Lexus GX 460 flaunts:
The new Lexus GX 460 has not been crash-tested either by the NHTSA or by the IIHS. Notable safety and reliability features boasted by the GX 460 includes blind-spot warning with cross-traffic alert and a backup camera. Probably the most important safety feature in the GX 460 is the Lexus Enform Safety Connect. Furthermore, the optional Driver Support package adds adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning along with other features. These are some of the salient safety features offered by the 2018 Lexus GX 460:
A 3.0L V6 engine is coupled with 8-speed automatic transmission in the Audi Q7 3.0 TFSI Premium that generates 333 horsepower as well as 325 lb.-ft. of torque. It accelerates to 60 MPH in 5.7 seconds. The Q7 also offers a combined fuel economy of 21 mpg. Not to forget the plush interiors and minimalistic design that Audi is known for. Moreover, the infotainment system is also more intuitive in the Audi Q7 when compared to the Lexus GX 460.
It might cost more than the GX 460, but it sure does pack a lot more features. In this case, opting for the Audi Q7 would be a better choice.
With a curb weight of 4680 lbs., BMW X5 is the least bulky ride in the competition. The ride offers a superior 21 mpg of combined fuel economy. X5 xDrive 35i relies on a 3.0L I6 TwinPower turbo engine, capable of producing 300 units of power and torque. The BMW X5 shoots to 60 MPH in 6.1 seconds. The SUV has an impressive ground clearance of 8.3 inches in addition to boasting a wheelbase of 115.5 inches.
BMW X5 xDrive 35i offers the most front headroom and shoulder-room of 40.5 and 61.5 inches, respectively. Not to forget BMW’s iDrive infotainment system which is the best in the segment. In this competition, the BMW X5 takes the win.
Yet another major rival to the 2018 Lexus GX 460 SUV is the Land Rover Discovery SE. The Discovery flaunts the least expensive MSRP of $49,990 among its competitors. The Land Rover Discovery offers the highest power output in the segment(340 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque). It also offers the best-in-class 82.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo space.
The GX 460 might offer a comfortable cabin. But other than that, the Land Rover Discovery has a lot more going for it.
The 2018 iteration of the Lexus GX 460 is a good old school SUV that offers reliability that is unparalleled in the segment. With the shortest turning radius, this car is a great daily driver that would satisfy the occasional hauler in you too. The disappointing low acceleration and dated technology break the deal for the GX 460. It might have a decent cabin and noteworthy towing capacity. But that doesn’t close the deal when taking its negatives into consideration. That said, if you already own a Lexus SUV and would like to upgrade to a new full-size SUV within the brand, the GX 460 is worth looking into. But if your choices are wide, the GX 460 would not make much sense.