Used 2021 Lexus GX

All the things that make this Lexus show its age — like body-on-frame construction, naturally aspirated V8, and old-school all-wheel-drive hardware — are the very elements that make the 2021 GX 460 popular with buyers as a luxurious 7-seat midsize SUV. The GX is a serious truck-based SUV with a sturdy reputation.

The only rival that can give the GX a run for its considerable money in terms of off-road ability and towing talents is the Land Rover Discovery. Other contenders like the Acura MDX, Audi Q7, BMW X5, and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class are superb on the road and have more refined ride qualities (as does the Discovery). But if you want to venture into the wilderness with confidence, the GX is a much better choice. It may not have smartphone integration, but there’s probably no cell service at your remote cabin anyway.

Resale values for the Lexus GX 460 are excellent.

While modern rivals employ carlike unibody chassis construction, the GX stays with the traditional and very durable truck-based body-on-frame approach. Along with standard all-wheel drive, this contributes to a rugged, highly capable off-road aspect, plus strong towing ability (up to 6,500 pounds).

What it doesn’t do is provide the kind of sophisticated ride found in the Volvo XC90, for example. The tall body also results in a fairly high center of gravity, so the GX isn’t going to zip around corners like a car. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, however, minimizes body lean on the road while improving traction and wheel articulation off-road.

The 4.6-liter V8 delivers plenty of power, but also uses plenty of gas. In fuel economy, the GX is rated by the EPA at 16 mpg in the city, which puts it near the bottom of its segment.

In regular form, the 2021 Lexus GX 460 has 3-row/7-occupant seating. The slide/recline 2nd-row seat splits and folds in 40/20/40 fashion, and the third row folds flat. So there are several permutations for people and things. A pair of 2nd-row captain’s chairs is optional, cutting the seat count to six.

Accommodations up front are great. The second row works for adults (made comfier with the captain’s chairs), and the third is best for kids. The base and Premium versions have NuLuxe simulated-leather upholstery. The real stuff (now with a Dark Rose choice) is optional in Premium trim, standard in Luxury.

Instruments are clear and easily legible, but there are lots of buttons — another sign of the GX’s advancing years (most rivals have migrated a bunch of functions to their infotainment systems). It’s all finished impeccably.

For 2020, the GX had its grille updated, and the changes still look fresh one year later. The large spindle-style grille with a 3-dimensional look is flanked by triple-beam LED headlights.

The GX 460’s boxy shape is great for headroom and cargo space. Although the standard illuminated running boards help shorter people climb aboard, they can make ingress/egress a bit awkward for others.

In back, the tailgate is a mixed bag. While most SUVs have a traditional hatchback that lifts up, the GX 460’s swings open like a door with a side hinge. Problem is, that hinge is on the passenger side, so the tailgate opens toward the curb and blocks access to the cargo hold. This makes sense for Japan, where they drive on the left, but not in the U.S.

FULL-TIME 4-WHEEL DRIVE
The full-time all-wheel-drive system in the 2021 Lexus GX 460 uses Active Traction Control to limit wheel slip and an electronically locking torque-sensing (Torsen) limited-slip center differential for even power distribution between front and rear.

KINETIC DYNAMIC SUSPENSION SYSTEM (KDSS)
Using stiff anti-roll bars attached to hydraulic cylinders, the GX’s Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System improves on-road performance by enhancing the ride quality and cornering behavior, while also optimizing off-road performance with greater wheel articulation.

Even in its base form, the Lexus GX 460 is well stocked. Features include simulated-leather upholstery, wood trim, 10-way power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, power moonroof, power-adjustable steering column, 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry/ignition, and illuminated running boards.

Entertainment and phone connectivity are provided by a 9-speaker AM/FM/CD display audio system with an 8-inch touchscreen and Bluetooth, four USB ports, compatibility with Siri Eyes Free iPhone, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, plus the Enform apps suite.

On the safety side, there are 10 airbags, active headrests to reduce the severity of whiplash, and Lexus’ Safety Connect system with 24/7 emergency services, and now the Lexus Safety System + with multiple driver aids.

Options are numerous on the 2021 Lexus GX 460. Highlights include center-row captain’s chairs, a 17-speaker Mark Levinson Surround Sound stereo, a navigation system, and an off-road package that includes crawl control, fuel-tank protection, a transmission oil cooler, and a multi-terrain monitor.

Additionally, you can order a Sport Design Package (19-inch wheels, updated front and rear fascias, scarlet taillights, and 2nd-row captain’s chairs) on your GX, plus headlight washers, heated and vented front seats, and a cargo cover.

Note: The optional dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system has been dropped for 2021.

There are no engine or transmission changes to the 2021 Lexus GX 460. Propulsion still comes from a 4.6-liter V8 making 301 horsepower. This goes to all four wheels through a reliable 6-speed automatic transmission, which also includes a 2-speed transfer case and a locking center differential that help give this luxurious Lexus SUV its serious off-road chops.

For all its smoothness and dependability, the GX drivetrain has a hearty appetite for gasoline. The Lexus GX 460 is rated by the EPA at 15 mpg city/19 mpg highway/16 mpg combined – low numbers that relate to the full-time AWD system.

4.6-liter V8
301 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
329 lb-ft of torque @ 3,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/19 mpg