Lexus GX 470, 2009

The 2009 Lexus GX 470 is a full-capability luxury utility vehicle delivering an outstanding combination of power, comfort and confidence for any kind of driving. The Lexus GX 470 is positioned between the brand's prestige-luxury LX 570 and unibody-based RX models.

Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
The Lexus GX 470 is powered by a 4.7-liter V8 engine that produces 263 horsepower and 323 lb-ft. of peak torque. Equipped with Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), the V8 provides ample torque across a wide speed range, helping make the Lexus GX 470 feel responsive in everyday driving and giving it excellent towing performance. The Lexus GX 470 meets Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle II (ULEV-II) certification.

The Lexus GX 470's five-speed automatic transmission provides seamless shift quality. Shift logic can hold gears on inclines for power and on descents for increased engine braking, which can be helpful when towing, for example. The Lexus GX 470's sophisticated full-time four-wheel-drive system, supported by an array of dynamic handling technology, provides versatile capability for virtually any driving need.

A TORSEN torque-sensing center differential distributes power 40:60 under most driving conditions and changes the ratio as needed based on steering input and wheel slip. The ability to change to a 29:71 ratio during steering maneuvers helps to enhance vehicle tracking through curves. If the rear wheels spin, the center differential can change the ratio to 53:47 to help control the slippage. The TORSEN center differential also helps make the Lexus GX 470 less prone to slippage caused by sudden changes in road-surface conditions, such as driving through a puddle or over an ice patch.

Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
The Lexus GX 470 is constructed with robust body-on-frame construction for rugged capability on or-off-road. Independent front suspension and rear air suspension with self-leveling control deliver a smooth on-road ride without compromising rugged off-road capabilities. Standard 265/65SR17 tires are mounted on 17-inch alloy wheels.

The variable-gear-ratio rack-and-pinion steering system helps make maneuvering the Lexus GX 470 in tight spaces easier. Rear Adjustable Height Control (AHC) enhances the Lexus GX 470's flexibility in a wide range of driving situations. A high setting provides an additional 1.6 inches of clearance when traversing challenging terrain.

Safety Features
The Lexus GX 470 is equipped with a comprehensive array of safety systems. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) helps keep the Lexus GX 470 going on its intended course by detecting front- and rear-wheel slide during cornering and attempting to control either condition with a combination of torque intervention and individual wheel braking. Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) utilizes the ABS and distributes proper brake force between the front and rear wheels according to driving and wheel-load conditions.

Luxury/Comfort/Convenience
The Lexus GX 470 presents a luxurious passenger environment with the extraordinary fit and finish expected in a Lexus. Standard features include: automatic climate control (available rear air conditioning enhances comfort for third-row passengers); leather seating surfaces and trim; premium audio system with a six-disc in-dash CD changer; steering wheel audio controls; rain-sensing windshield wipers; power moonroof; a wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; memory system for the driver's seat, steering wheel position and outside mirrors; heated front seats; and an overhead console with integrated Home Link transmitter.

Exterior Design
The Lexus GX 470's purposeful design is accented by details that underscore its capability and its luxury positioning. The color-keyed (dark metallic) front grille, framed by distinctive character lines on the hood, features three horizontal bars and chrome finish surround. The front bumper features standard integrated fog lamps. Color-keyed fender flares, running boards, bumpers, mirrors, and lower body cladding convey elegance and solidity. Chrome door handles and roof rack with chrome side rails add luxurious detail. In the rear, three-stack design sculpted tail lamps feature a clear combination lamp lens cover on the turn signal and reverse lamps that are located under a chrome license plate garnish. Tasteful luxury touches abound, including green-tint UV protection front glass, privacy glass on rear windows, running board lamps, and reverse lamps with green tint.

Interior Design
The V8-powered Lexus GX 470 provides the luxury appointments and workmanship of a Lexus sedan. The Lexus GX 470 offers eight-passenger seating with an available third-row seat. Ivory or gray leather trims the seat facings, headrests, armrests, door trim, shift knob and steering wheel. Optitron instrument gauges are a traditional and functional Lexus design element, while genuine wood trim on the dashboard, center console and door panels and chrome door handles add to the luxurious cabin design.