2016 Lexus GX
More Than Meets The Eye
While most of today's crossover vehicles provide the tall ride height many drivers crave, they stop short of delivering the "go anwhere," "do anything" utility implied in their names. The 2016 Lexus GX bucks that trend by delivering luxurious accommodations, styling, and true capability on and off-road.
The 2016 GX is the best version yet, and it comes with a number of improvements, to boot. Chief among these is a new Destination Search function that's been added to the Lexus Enform App Suite. There is also now a new Lexus Enform® Remote, which allows remote viewing and control of certain vehicle functions. Last but not least, Sepia and Black have been added as interior color choice options.
Performance
There's only one engine option for the 2016 Lexus GX but there is no need to worry as it offers plenty of capability for both on-road and off-road driving.
The GX 460's standard mill consists of a 4.6-liter V8 that produces 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. That allows the GX to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.2 seconds, reach an electronically limited top speed of 110 mph, and tow up to 6,500 pounds.
That powerful engine is connected to a six-speed automatic transmission, and standard four-wheel drive. The four-wheel drive system is what really sets the GX apart from other luxury SUVs. While most of the competition consists of car-based crossovers, this Lexus offers genuine off-road capability.
An electronically-controlled transfer case and Torsen limited-slip center differential send power to the wheels that have the most grip, while a suite of electronic aids help the driver deal with tricky situations.
These include Downhill Assist Control, Hill-start Assist Control, and Crawl Control, which keeps the vehicle moving at a steady, predetermined speed.
When it’s not dodging boulders and fording streams, the GX 460 will also return an EPA-estimated 17 mpg combined (15 mpg city, 20 mpg highway),* which is pretty respectable performance for a heavy SUV with a big V8 engine.
Features
The 2016 Lexus GX 460 is a five-door sport-utility vehicle with seating for seven, starting at $50,780.** It’s available in two trim levels (Base and Luxury), with plenty of standard equipment.
The base GX 460 comes standard with the Lexus Memory System for driver’s seat, outside mirrors, and steering-wheel position, a power moonroof, Bluetooth® phone and streaming audio capability, and a rearview camera, among other features.
In addition to the applicable features from the base model, the GX 460 Luxury adds heated and ventilated front seats, semi-aniline perforated leather interior trim, and auto-dimming power-folding outside mirrors.
In addition to those standard features, the GX 460 can also be specified with a navigation and infotainment system, including the Lexus Enform® App Suite—which includes smartphone-compatible apps—the Lexus Enform® concierge service, and HD Radio™ Real-Time Traffic and Weather (and Sports… and Stocks… and Fuel Prices) service with a one-year subscription.
Design
The 2016 Lexus GX combines the rugged looks of a traditional SUV with the style of a modern luxury car.
A tall ride height gives a commanding view of the road, but this isn’t a blue-collar truck. Standard 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, and color-keyed running boards give the GX an appropriately sophisticated appearance.
That feeling continues on the inside, where driver and passengers are greeted by an illuminated entry system and courtesy lights on the running boards. The spacious cabin features (optional) leather and Mahogany wood trim, as well as a 4.2-inch center-stack display.
For added convenience, the middle-row seats slide and feature 60/40 split folding, while the rear row has power 50/50 folding. Maximum cargo capacity is 64.7 cubic feet.
Safety
The GX’s capabilities extend to the realm of safety. It comes standard with anti-lock brakes, stability control, Active Traction Control, driver and passenger front and knee airbags, and side-curtain airbags for all three rows. Since the GX was also designed with towing in mind, a standard Trailer Sway Control system works with the stability control to keep things in line.
Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are optional, as is a Driver Support Package that includes lane-departure warning and a pre-collision system with radar-guided adaptive cruise control.
Verdict
The majorty of luxury crossover SUVs on the market can talk the talk but very few are capable when the going gets tough. If you're in search of a luxuriously appointed crossover that feels just as at home parked outside the country club as it on (or off) a country road, then the 2016 Lexus GX is just want you need.
For more information, or to schedule a test drive, contact us online or visit MotorWorld | MileOne Autogroup at 150 MotorWorld Drive, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702.
*2016 EPA-estimated ratings. Actual mileage will vary.
**MSRP does not include delivery, processing and handling fee of $950. Excludes taxes, title, license and optional equipment. Dealer price will vary. Does not include accessory
Image Credit: Lexus