* Click HERE to see a video on the Lexus GX 470 *
Rugged and good looking
There are many ways to express wealth and success and the most popular way these days is by owning a big lavish SUV. A cheap version will cost you about $50,000 and if you really want to flash, $125,000 will get you the ultimate luxury road warrior.
The Lexus GX470 made its entry on the Canadian market for the first time in 2004. It borrows heavily from the Toyota 4Runner as they share the same platform and many mechanical components. The 4Runner was already a popular vehicle and Toyota (wise as they are), decided to move it upscale by dressing it up "Lexus-style". The idea worked so well that there are nearly as many GX470s as there are 4Runners on the road.
There are only two versions of the GX470. The basic model retails for $67,700 and the top-of-the-line Ultra Premium packaged GX has a sticker price of $74,000. The extras include a rear DVD entertainment system, a pair of wireless headphones and a DVD based navigation system with a rear-view camera.
Exterior styling
The first thing that most people notice when looking at the GX470 is that
it looks extremely tall and very narrow. The truth is that it is 1 895 mm tall and 1 880 mm wide; it is basically square. Unless someone really dislikes trucks altogether, it is difficult not to appreciate the Lexus' muscular stance and strong yet passive presence. The lower body-cladding as well as the large fender flares do a good job of separating and defining the rugged lower half from the proper upper half. Fine-looking 17" twin five-spoke alloy wheels sharpen the package.
The body panels are snugly assembled with nice even gaps throughout. Our example's Silver Pine Metallic paint job was expertly executed.
Interior styling
Upon opening the door of the Lexus, we are awash in sumptuous leather, Birds Eye maple wood trim and opulence. The environment feels serene and solemn. There is almost a calming effect that can be felt when looking at the inner surroundings.
The GX's dash is another example of Lexus know-how. Its ergonomics are perfect, the layout is beyond reproach and the materials used could be compared to the finest Gucci clothing. All the controls are impeccably positioned and within easy reach. The audio controls are simple to comprehend and the same can be said about the HVAC. The steering wheel, inlaid with exquisite wood, is borrowed from the Toyota Camry. I had made the same remark for the Sienna, Sequoia and the Tacoma. I find it unfortunate that such distinct vehicles have to share an identical wheel; it is an important tool that can often describe a car's character. Take the steering wheel of an M Package BMW for example; it is purpose-built for driving.
The Mark Levinson sound system is, as always, very impressive. The size of the cabin is a perfect setting for the 14 speakers to please the ears of the occupants with a crisp clear sound.
Rugged and good looking
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The Lexus GX470 made its entry on the Canadian market for the first time in 2004. It borrows heavily from the Toyota 4Runner as they share the same platform and many mechanical components. The 4Runner was already a popular vehicle and Toyota (wise as they are), decided to move it upscale by dressing it up "Lexus-style". The idea worked so well that there are nearly as many GX470s as there are 4Runners on the road.
There are only two versions of the GX470. The basic model retails for $67,700 and the top-of-the-line Ultra Premium packaged GX has a sticker price of $74,000. The extras include a rear DVD entertainment system, a pair of wireless headphones and a DVD based navigation system with a rear-view camera.
Exterior styling
The first thing that most people notice when looking at the GX470 is that
 |
The body panels are snugly assembled with nice even gaps throughout. Our example's Silver Pine Metallic paint job was expertly executed.
Interior styling
Upon opening the door of the Lexus, we are awash in sumptuous leather, Birds Eye maple wood trim and opulence. The environment feels serene and solemn. There is almost a calming effect that can be felt when looking at the inner surroundings.
 |
The Mark Levinson sound system is, as always, very impressive. The size of the cabin is a perfect setting for the 14 speakers to please the ears of the occupants with a crisp clear sound.