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2005 Lexus GX470 Review
Revised engine improves performance and efficiency.
2005 GX470 Review Summary & Specifications
Within the Lexus family, the GX 470 fits between the popular car-based RX 330 and the ultra-capable truck-based LX 470. The GX 470 offers more space and power and off-road capability than the RX 330, though it isn't as smooth. The GX 470 is smaller and lighter and much less expensive than the Land Cruiser-based LX 470, but will fit in places the big LX won't. To some extent, the GX 470 competes with the BMW X5 4.4i and the Mercedes-Benz ML 500, but the Lexus is longer, wider, taller and lighter than either of those entries and offers more off-road capability. Though based on the 4Runner, the GX 470 offers a personality of its own.The Lexus GX 470 is a good choice for buyers who want luxury, capability, quality and reliability. It's smooth and powerful on the road and can go nearly anywhere off road. It offers the high levels of quality and ergonomic excellence expected of a Lexus and carries its reputation for durability and reliability. It's roomy and comfortable and can carry up to eight people when equipped with the optional third-row seat. New Car Test Drive correspondent Jim McCraw reports from Detroit; with Mitch McCullough in Los Angeles.
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| Vehicle Category | Sport Utility Vehicles |
| Editor | Jim McCraw |
| Model Lineup | Lexus GX470 ($45,775) |
| Engines (standard) | 4.7-liter dohc 32-valve V8 with VVT-i |
| Transmissions (standard) | 5-speed automatic |
| Engines (optional) | 4.7-liter dohc 32-valve V8 with VVT-i |
| Transmissions (optional) | 5-speed automatic |
| Safety Equipment (standard) | ABS, EBD, brake assist, Vehicle Stability Control anti-skid system, traction control, front airbags, side airbags, side curtain airbags (with roll-sensing after January 2004), seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters |
| Safety Equipment (optional) | tire-pressure monitor |
| Basic Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Assembled In | Tahara, Japan |
| Manufacturer Phone | 1-800-USA-LEXUS |
| Manufacturer URL | www.lexus.com |
| Base Price MSRP | 45775 |
| Model Tested MSRP | Lexus GX 470 ($45,775) |
| Standard Equipment | leather upholstery; genuine bird's-eye maple trim, automatic front/rear air conditioning w filtration; Lexus premium AM/FM/cassette w/center console mounted 6-disc CD auto changer, 11 speakers and automatic sound levelizer; rear-seat audio system; 5-passenger seating; heated, multi-adjustable power front seats w driver's-side power lumbar; memory system to control power driver's seat, exterior mirrors and steering wheel; reclining split/folding middle-row seats; overhead console w map lights and storage; HomeLink universal transceiver; digital clock; cruise control; power moonroof w retractable sunshade; power windows w auto up/down feature and pinch protection; manual rear quarter swing out windows w privacy glass; retained accessory power for windows; power door locks w anti-lockout feature; integrated rear-window antenna; power tilt/telescopic steering wheel column w automatic tilt-away; steering wheel-mounted audio controls; floor mats; sun visors w dual illuminated vanity mirrors; electrochromic rearview mirror w compass; anti-theft system w panic alarm and engine immobilizer; keyless entry remote; first aid kit; tool kit |
| Destination Charge | 650 |
| Options as Tested (MSRP) | third-row seat with rear air conditioner ($2,030); tow hitch receiver ($50); Navigation System with Mark Levinson Audio ($3,050); Rear Seat Entertainment System ($1,560) |
| Gas Guzzler Tax | |
| Layout | four-wheel drive |
| Price as Tested | 53115 |
| Horse Power | 270 @ 5400 |
| Torque | 330 @ 3400 |
| Fuel Economy | 15/19 |
| Wheelbase | 109.8 |
| Length/Width/Height | 188.2/74.0/74.6 |
| Track Front/Rear | |
| Turning Radius | 37.4 |
| Seating Capacity | 8 |
| Front Head/Hip/Leg room | 41.0/55.1/41.8 |
| Middle Head/Hip/Leg room | 40.4/54.8/36.8 |
| Rear Head/Hip/Leg room | 36.1/56.4/24.9 |
| Trunk Volume | 77.5 |
| Payload | |
| Towing Capacity | 5000 |
| Front Suspension | independent with lower torsion bar-type double wishbone |
| Rear Suspension | solid axle, four-link with coil springs |
| Ground Clearance | 8.3 |
| Curb Weight | 4871 |
| Stock Tires | P265/65HR17 M+S |
| Brakes Front/Rear | disc/disc with ABS, EBD, Brake Assist |
| Fuel Capacity | 23 |
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