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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2009 Lexus GX

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2013 Lexus GX

Overview

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2009 Lexus GX Review

By KBB.com Editors

Slotting neatly between the flagship Lexus LX 570 full-size SUV and the popular RX 350 and RX 400h crossover utility vehicles, the mid-size 2009 GX 470 represents a suitably Lexus-like upgrade of the rugged Toyota 4Runner platform, and it packs a full measure of techno wizardry and creature comforts along with standard V8 power and full-time four-wheel drive. Although it's now entered the graceful-aging stage of its generational lifecycle, the GX 470 remains extremely refined and lavishly equipped even in "base" form. With a solid blend of style, sophistication, all-weather and all-terrain capabilities and optional seating for up to eight, it continues to be a formidable competitor in a market segment that also includes the Audi Q7, BMW X5, Cadillac SRX, Land Rover LR3, Mercedes-Benz ML-Class and Volkswagen Touareg.

You'll Like This Car If...

When luxury, comfort and loads of technology mean just as much as spirited performance and go-almost-anywhere capability, the 2009 Lexus GX 470 deserves prime consideration as your possible next SUV.

You May Not Like This Car If...

Available eight-place seating capability comes at the expense of usable cargo space in a GX 470. Complicating that reality is the fact that its optional third-row split-bench seat does not fold completely away, requiring removal and replacement whenever your hauling priorities change.

What's New for 2009

The Lexus GX 470 sees no major changes for 2009.

Driving the GX

Driving Impressions Despite its truck-based body-on-frame architecture, the 2009 Lexus GX 470 is a remarkably comfortable and civilized travelmate. A good deal of credit goes to the standard adaptive variable suspension that...

includes both height adjustability and four different shock absorber settings, but adding the optional KDDS (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System) can significantly curtail body roll in the corners without adversely affecting ride quality. Even without KDDS, the GX 470 transparently employs its traction and stability controls, and the four-wheel drive, to help ease a driver's burden in all but the most extreme of weather or surface conditions. Downhill Assist Control and Hill-start Assist Control add extra confidence, on-road or off. Finally, add the smooth, spirited 4.7-liter V8 and cabin isolation that rivals a Lexus sedan in reducing interior noise levels and you've got one very impressive SUV.

Favorite Features

Available Voice-Activated Navigation system
An extra well worth considering, the GX 470's voice-activated navigation system is impressively intuitive, allows hands-free activation of many functions and includes a large, legible seven-inch color display that also incorporates a rear-vision camera.

Optional KDDS (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System)
Seamlessly integrated with the GX 470's standard adjustable suspension, the available KDDS (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System) can trim body roll by up to 50 percent when cornering while maintaining excellent ride compliance.

2009 Lexus GX Details

Interior

As you might expect of a Lexus, the GX 470's well-isolated cabin is awash in supple leather and tastefully polished wood. Complementing the upscale ambiance are signature Optitron electroluminescent gauges and well-positioned primary controls and switchgear. Power-adjustable front seats provide good comfort and support, while the second-row 60/40-split bench seat has the headroom and legroom to handle three average-size adults (although two is more optimum). Significantly less space in all critical dimensions means the optional third-row 50/50-split seat might be best for children. However, removing it increases cargo volume from 13.2 cubic feet to 49.7, and flip-folding the second-row elements further increases rear cargo capacity to 77.5 cubic feet.

Exterior

A contemporary take on the conventional SUV design, the 2009 Lexus GX 470 matches softened contouring on its front and rear quarters with bold fender flaring and pronounced side character lines. Its large and fairly upright glass area helps optimize driver sightlines in all directions. Access to the rear cargo area is through a single-piece rear hatch that swings open from left to right, a design choice that can make loading and unloading in confined areas a bit challenging. The GX 470 rides on S-rated 265/65 all-season tires mounted to 17-inch alloy rims, currently the only choice available directly from the factory.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

The 2009 Lexus GX 470 boasts a truly expansive assortment of standard features. On the creature-comfort front, rich wood and leather cabin trappings set off a vast array of power assists and other premium touches, including a nine-speaker audio system with six-disc CD changer, dual-zone climate control, power moonroof and steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise control buttons. Mechanically, it matches V8 power, a five-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range full-time four-wheel drive system with sophisticated vehicle dynamics enhancements that include adjustable shock absorbers and ride height, traction and stability controls, Downhill Assist Control and Hill-start Assist Control, anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and front, front-side and side-curtain airbags.

Optional Equipment

The GX 470's list of options is headed by a voice-activated navigation system offered with a stunning 240-watt Mark Levinson audio system. You can put an enthusiast edge on handling with the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), available alone or as part of the Sport Package that also includes interior and exterior trim enhancements. Other key items include a 50/50 split-folding third-row seat (including a supplemental air-conditioner), SIRIUS or XM Satellite Radio, rear DVD entertainment system, tow hitch and Lexus Link, which provides roadside assistance, emergency alerts, concierge services, and other worthwhile benefits.

Under the Hood

The 2009 Lexus GX 470 teams a smooth and torquey 4.7-liter V8 with a five-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive. Normally, the engine's 263 horsepower and 323 pound-feet of torque are automatically apportioned by a Torsen limited-slip center differential. But, when conditions warrant, Low range can be selected by using a console-mounted auxiliary shift lever and the center differential can be electronically locked with a button on the dash. Requiring just over eight seconds to accelerate from a stop to 60 miles per hour, the versatile GX 470 can tow up to 6,500 pounds when fitted with the optional trailer hitch and still earns slightly above-average EPA fuel economy numbers of 14 mpg city/18 mpg highway.

4.7-liter V8
263 horsepower @ 5400 rpm
323 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 14/18

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2009 Lexus GX Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

9.3

Out of 10

Based on 185 Ratings for the 2003 - 2010 models.

Review this car

Value

9.2/10

Quality

9.6/10
Reliability

9.6/10

Performance

9.4/10
Comfort

9.4/10

Styling

9.3/10

I made the right purchase!

By Supraman95 (OH) on Thursday, June 27, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 134,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Comfortable ride, reliable, ++ conveniences"

Cons: "Low MPG, rear swing gate isn't always convenient"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I bought my 2005 GX470 almost a year ago and it had 128k miles on it. Even though it has quite a few miles on it, the ride quality, engine, transmission, and even the condition of the leather seats and interior make it feel like it's a newer car. I have had numerous Toyo/Lexus products (2 Camrys, Supra, 4Runner, 2 GS400s) but this one has impressed me a lot. Even though it's built on a truck chassis, the ride is smooth and stable in corners, it doesn't lean even though it's a pretty tall vehicle. I love all the convenience features it has, rain sensing wipers, DVD system, blue tooth, 3rd row seats that fold up. This is the first AWD vehicle I've owned and it was superb in the snow. The only negative I can come up with is the gas mileage, I've been averaging 16-17 mpg, but considering the power of the 4.7 V8 I'll take the trade off."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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Rare luxury SUV

By alec'sGX (WA) on Saturday, May 25, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 102,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Great value, full utility, luxury and reliability"

Cons: "rear jumper seats small, boot space limited"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Purchased this car for my wife and our two young sons. I did extensive research to find the best mix of utility, safety, style, ride quality and reliability. From utility perspective, this is a truly acclaimed off road vehicle. Based upon legendary Toyota Landcruiser, this vehicle can handle our once a year snow storm and winter ski vacations in the mountains. It has all the settings to down crawl steep and icy terrain, or climb without applying too much torque. In the off road deep snow, we can separate the front and rear driveline to maneuver bumpy off roads. This is with the Lexus defined ride quality (has three ride settings; sport, normal and comfort), reliability and style. This is luxury inside and out. The quality of materials, suppleness, the cabin acoustic quietness separate this vehicle from the competition. The Japan derived wheelbase and cabin size, are sufficient for us and provide a uniquely small footprint (can park into compact spaces). It makes for an easy to maneuver and drive vehicle. Rear backup cameras and parking sensors give you extra confidence. The third row seats are occasionally used but could only fit small adults or kids. There isn't a ton of storage space like larger sized US based SUVs. That is why I cannot give Interior and Convenience a 10. These cars run long into the mileage with very minor issues to deal with, except items like tires, lights, etc.."

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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Absolutely flawless ownership experience.

By Steve (WA) on Monday, May 20, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 116,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Ride, comfort, quality, reliability."

Cons: "Fuel economy."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Big, roomy, and comfortable, without the longer wheelbase of a truly large SUV, this car has been fantastic. Purchased new, this is our first Lexus, but all of the Salesman's lies about how you never have any trouble with them turned out to be true. 116,000 miles and it has never let us down. Still completely tight, I wouldn't be shocked if goes another 300,000 miles. No repairs other than normal wear items. It rides great, has a nice tight turning radius, has great acceleration, and is comfortable and quiet. The all wheel drive system with traction control is absolutely amazing in winter driving conditions. The 4.7 liter v8 will makes you forget that this is a 5,000 lb car. This won't be our last Lexus."

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One of best

By walt (CA) on Monday, May 06, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 100,000

10 8.0

overall rating 8 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 8/10
Value: 6/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "comfort, quiet"

Cons: "LOUSY gas mileage"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Except for lousy gas mileage, it is the best car I've ever owned. (out of over 50 cars) Also, too expensive to repair."

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Luxury and comfort in a family car!

By UMass Mom (MA) on Thursday, March 28, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 82,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Comfortable, roomy, handles well, stylish, sturdy"

Cons: "Just 1: the 8 cyl uses more gas than I would like"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I was hit head-on while driving my husband's Lexus sedan in 2005. Both my son and I walked away with only scraches from the air bags! I felt so safe in a Lexus product that we replaced it with another--this time, a family SUV. I am only 5'1" and have a hard time feeling comfortable in most cars but the adjustability and thick padded seats make this vehicle the most comfortable I have ever driven. The moon roof is fun and sporty on a warm summer day and helps to cool the car quickly by letting the hot air escape when I first get in. It's a great family vehicle, and the DVD player helps keep the kids occupied on long rides...but it is also luxurious enough to take friends out for the evening. A 6-disc changer and the Levinson sound system make an enjoyable listening experience while driving. Very little outside noise penetrates the windows. It is about as soundproof as a car can be. The 8 cylinder engine gives the car a strong pick-up and even ride on the highway."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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One of the best vehicle

By Jerry (CA) on Wednesday, March 27, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 89,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I used to own a Mercedes-Benz S500; I currently have BMW 528i and Lexus GX. Lexus is the best. Plus, its services are so much better than M-B's and BMW's. My next SUV will still be a Lexus GX."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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