Appealing to adventurous families everywhere, Lexus is betting that its luxury midsize SUV will seduce likely customers. With its rugged construction, this vehicle can accommodate up to seven adult passengers – that’s two more than the Porsche Cayenne. Equipped with a full-time, low range 4WD system as well as Toyota and Lexus’ own Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), the GX 460 encourages drivers to veer off the beaten track.


Chances are you wouldn’t buy the 2012 Lexus GX 460 for its simple lines or its genteel design, a sharp contrast from its European competitors, the Audi Q7 and the BMW X5.

According to the manufacturer, this SUV, powered by a 4.6L V8 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, delivers 301 hp and up to 329 lb-ft of torque with plenty of towing capacity (2,948 kg/6,500 lbs). What’s more, the GX manages a combined fuel efficiency of 12.1L/100km.

The manufacturer’s 2012 highlights include standard High Intensity Discharge headlamps as well as front and rear clearance with backup sonar equipment. The Premium package has been upgraded to include heated seating in leather for back-seat passengers, while the Ultra Premium package now features unique alloy wheels and a cooled console box.

A seat and rearview memory system for two drivers, dual-zone automatic climate control, LED multi-informational on-board computer and display, a nine-speaker audio system with Bluetooth connectivity - all just some of the features that put the Lexus GX 460 squarely in the luxury midsize SUV category.

Depending on the options package, adventure-seeking families looking to travel off the beaten track can expect to shell out somewhere between $62,200 and $77,800 for this SUV that guarantees luxury, both on road or off.