2023 | lexus | lexus gx | critiques | suvs | June 19, 2023
Phrases and Photos by Paul Strauss
With the reveal of the brand new 2024 Lexus GX 550, we figured there was no higher time to take one remaining trip within the outgoing mannequin, the GX 460. We spent per week residing with this 2023 GX 460 Black Line particular version, slathered in stunning Nori Inexperienced Pearl paint. Our conclusion: Lexus’ rugged and succesful SUV leaves some large sneakers to fill for the next-gen GX.
The GX 460 encompasses a boxy, body-on-frame building and is constructed to steadiness that high-quality line between on a regular basis luxurious and off-road prowess. The Black Line particular version options 18-inch split-spoke alloy wheels, black window trim, and black roof rails. Inside, it will get seats wrapped in Boulder Gray Nuluxe – a really convincing and easy-to-clean fake leather-based – and black wooden accents.
It’s powered by a naturally-aspirated 4.6-liter V8 that produces 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft. of torque. That energy heads to the wheels by way of a 6-speed automated transmission, and the V8 provides a satisfying quantity of grunt. It doesn’t sip gasoline, although, averaging simply 16 MPG mixed between metropolis and freeway driving. The total-time 4 wheel-drive system does a terrific job sustaining traction on diversified terrain and packs a Torsen limited-slip differential with an digital heart lock. This forces a good 50/50 energy cut up between the entrance and rear wheels. Total steering really feel is gentle and straightforward.
The GX’s suspension system does a unbelievable job absorbing on a regular basis obstacles like pace bumps and potholes, and its comparatively smooth tuning additionally makes it nice for crawling alongside tough and rocky trails. Up entrance is a dual-wishbone suspension, whereas the rear has a four-link setup. Gasoline-pressurized shocks, coil springs, and stabilizer bars present a easy and comfy trip. My take a look at automobile did not have the adaptive variable air suspension, crawl management, or multi-terrain choose options that come customary on the top-of-the-line Luxurious grade SUV.
The inside of the GX 460 is the place we’re most trying ahead to updates. It is completely purposeful in its present state however is unquestionably behind the occasions. It nonetheless has the previous, much-derided Lexus trackpad and older multimedia system. It does assist Android Auto and Apple CarPlay by way of wired connections, at the least. The middle stack even has a CD participant, a real rarity for this point in time. The entrance seats are plush, broad, and comfy, providing air flow and warmth. We additionally just like the darkish, trim items that look kind of like liquid metallic. The Black Line’s open-pore black wooden is a pleasant addition, however there’s far too little of it.
There’s seating for seven within the GX 460, with the second row providing superior legroom and kneeroom, together with impartial local weather controls, heated seats, and twin USB-C charging ports. That row folds in a 40/20/40 configuration for versatile cargo-carrying choices. The flat roofline means the primary two rows have wonderful headroom too. By way of some intelligent engineering, the third-row seats fold completely flat into the cargo flooring. Nevertheless, the area again there may be very tight, and getting behind the second row requires some severe flexibility. Positively save the again row for little children.
Cargo area is fairly strong once you solely use the second row, with 46.7 cubic toes of area in that setup. Drop the second row for 64.7 cubic toes. Then again, should you’re utilizing the again row, anticipate simply 11.6 cubic toes, barely sufficient for grocery baggage. The present GX is the final era to function a swing-out rear door. The brand new mannequin could have an influence liftgate. Whereas we’ll miss this nod to traditional SUV design, it isn’t sensible for on a regular basis use inside a storage or with one other automobile parked behind it. And Lexus plans on retaining the pop-open glass window, which turns out to be useful whereas hauling lengthy objects.
We have pushed the GX 460 a number of occasions throughout its present era, and it stays considered one of our favourite Lexus fashions because of its deft steadiness of luxurious and functionality. Important modifications are coming for the 2024 mannequin 12 months, so should you can watch for that mannequin to return out, it will be value it. Within the meantime, the 2023 GX 460 remains to be a strong and dependable automobile with a cushty cabin, ample V8 engine, and off-road prowess for weekend adventurers. Pricing for the 2023 Lexus GX 460 begins at $59,275. The well-equipped Black Line mannequin we drove got here to $64,550, together with supply, processing, and dealing with charges.