The Lexus GX is powered a 4.6-liter V8 engine that pours out 301 horsepower and 319 lb-ft of peak torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission with full-time four-wheel drive. Fuel economy is rated at 15 mpg city and 19 mpg highway, for a combined average of 16 mpg. The powertrain gives the GX a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds.
Hopping inside, the Lexus SUV’s black interior is roomy and beautiful. The NuLuxe-trimmed 10-way power adjustable front seats are accompanied by sliding/reclining second-row 40/20/40 seats. The third row seat folds down flat for excellent cargo space.
I must confess I had some challenges with the Lexus Memory System. It was difficult to remove the seat and mirror settings left by the previous driver to save my own settings.
Dual-zone automatic climate control with interior air filter provides excellent air quality at the perfect cabin temperature. Although the passengers can just simply indulge in the interior, the moonroof and privacy glass provide a connection to the outside scenic world.
High-fidelity sound is produced and “sent forth,” by Lexus 9-speaker Premium Sound System with 4 USB ports. The 4.2-inch full-color Multi-Information Display holds the most essential driving information in the instrument panel.
The GX 460 is the base for a tremendous data flow. In fact, it features too much information even for the 10.3-inch touchscreen. This center touchscreen with standard navigation is a key focus point for the driver behind the wheel. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa round up the modern connectivity support. Dynamic Voice Command reduces the distraction from operating the system. Lexus app and Enform connectivity suite define the brand’s modern user experience philosophy.
Even though the screen initially seemed adequate, manipulating the system to get to the data proved challenging. Important data could not be gleaned quickly.
Auto-dimming rear view mirror, Lexus Memory System, and Home Link garage door opener are important day-to-day convenience functions, while roof rails and illuminating running boards enhance both aesthetics and utility.
Lexus Safety System+ is one of the best standard auto safety packages in the industry. Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, and Intelligent High Beam Head Lamps are included.
The GX 460 has an imposing exterior appeal that embraces a sophisticated design incorporating a modern Lexus fascia with Premium Triple-Beam LED headlamps flanking the Spindle Grille, and 18-inch alloy wheels anchor its bold stance. It is all comfort and luxury encased in a striking appearance and capabilities.
The MSRP for the 2022 GX 460 starts at $55,625.
An optional package, the Black Line Special Edition raises the price by $3,835, and adds various menacing appearance enhancements, such as Black Line Special Edition 18-inch alloy wheels with gloss black finish, Open-Pore Ash Wood trim, black NuLuxe with gray bolster inserts and gray stitching, black window trim, black roof rails, and Scarlet taillights.
Warranty
4 years/50,000 miles Basic Warranty
6 years/70,000 miles Powertrain Warranty
6 years/unlimited miles Corrosion Perforation Warranty
4 years/unlimited miles 24/7 Roadside Assistance
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or [email protected].