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2004 Lexus GX 470 Road Test

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Khatir Soltani

A Real SUV in a World of Pretenders

I was invited to a press event by Toyota recently, and given the opportunity to either be driven to the hotel or drive. What do you think I opted for? It's about an hour northwest from Toronto's Lester B. Pearson airport to the small community of Alliston where we would be staying, close to Barry if you know your way around Ontario, so considering I would

At a Toyota press event I recently went on I had my choice of vehicle to drive from the airport, seeking optimal comfort I opted for the Lexus GX 470. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)
just be getting off of a four and a half hour flight from the west coast, something comfortable would be optimal.

"Hmmm, what Toyota haven't I driven yet?" I said to myself. "No, wait a minute. I'm looking for optimal comfort right? Then what Lexus haven't I driven yet?" Of course, the new GX 470 would be ideal, and one just happened to be available from the Toronto press fleet.

I arrived relaxed from the flight, albeit a little out of whack due to the time change - nothing out of the ordinary mind you. Waiting at arrivals was a Blizzard Pearl-hued GX with a soothing Ivory-colored interior. I've always liked the look of the GX. It's tall, with broad shoulders and well balanced between rugged machismo and refined elegance. I found

The GX 470 has a gorgeous cabin, with beautifully finished woods, rich leather seats and trim, plus fine attention to detail. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)
myself sitting quite high in the driver's seat, more so than when in the average SUV, giving me a commanding view of the road ahead - a good thing as I had no idea where I was going even with directions.

Scanning the interior, something I always do before taking off in a new car, I noticed things were set up pretty much as done in other Lexus cars and sport utilities. An assortment of buttons and dials on the center stack are all within easy reach, simple to operate and of the highest tactile quality. Additional buttons are set into the steering wheel, also easy to operate. Overall it's a gorgeous cabin, with beautifully finished woods, rich leather seats and trim and fine attention to detail even in areas that a person wouldn't initially look.

Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
As a car enthusiast, he tests and compares vehicles from different categories through the eyes of the consumer, ensuring relevant and objective reviews.
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada