2017 Lexus GX
The capability to do more
While most of today's crossover vehicles provide the tall ride height many drivers crave, they stop short of delivering the "go anywhere, do anything" utility implied in their names. The 2017 Lexus GX bucks that trend by delivering luxurious accommodations, styling, and true capability on- and off-road. Indeed, the GX is a confident and feature-rich SUV; one that is designed for drivers that require near limitless capability.
The 2017 GX is the best version yet. Lexus has added a Sport Design package to its list of available options, which includes unique wheels, a different front grille, and additonal exterior chrome elements. Second-row captain's chairs are also a new feature for the 2017 Lexus GX.
Performance
There's only one engine option for the 2017 Lexus GX, but there is no need to worry as it offers plenty of capability for both on- 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 respectable performance for a heavy SUV with a big V8 engine.*
Features
The 2017 Lexus GX 460 is a five-door sport-utility vehicle with seating for up to seven, starting at $51,280.** 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.
Additional options on the Luxury model include a 17-speaker Mark Levinson® surround-sound audio system; a rear-seat video entertainment system; and the Driver Support package, which includes the off-road-oriented Crawl Control feature, automatic high-beam headlight control, adaptive cruise control (includes a pre-collision warning system), a lane departure warning system, and additional front and side parking cameras.
Design
The 2017 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-split 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 majority of luxury crossover SUVs on the market can talk the talk but very few are capable enough 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 is on (or off) a country road, then the 2017 Lexus GX is just what 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.
*2017 EPA-estimated ratings. Actual mileage will vary.
**MSRP does not include delivery, processing and handling fee of $975. Excludes taxes, title, license and optional equipment. Dealer price will vary. Does not include accessory options installed by dealer.
Image Credit: Lexus