It's fun to take the wheel of a monster truck every now and then, and this 2013 Lexus GX 460 Premium has a comfortable, commanding presence. The interior is the best single element, in my opinion, as the driver casts a long view over the road, and the materials are first-class. It's a quiet atmosphere, but I like to crack the sunroof and let in some late winter ventilation with the seat heaters up, which makes for an enjoyable experience in a vehicle this large.
The power is adequate. I buried my foot into the accelerator and smoothly sped onto expressway during late rush hour, and the V8 was totally up to the task, even emitting a pleasing, subtle roar. The six-speed auto smoothly shifted gears and was a suitable partner. Still, 4.6-liters, just 301 hp -what century is this? Then again, the big wheels and body-on-frame architecture do have the demeanor of a quickly passing era. Still, it's a brute - a dreadnaught. And I think there's still a place for vehicles like this, but I would opt for a Mercedes-Benz or BMW SUV ahead of this Lexus.
EXECUTIVE EDITOR BOB GRITZINGER: It's a big galoot for sure, but at least it's equipped to handle the size, height and weight. The V8 brings plenty of power to the equation, while the suspension seems set up to keep the roll and dive in check despite the mass and high center of gravity. I'm not saying it's a sports car, or even as nimble as a Mercedes-Benz GL, but it's reasonable in its own right. I found myself comparing it to the GMC Acadia Denali I'd just driven - a near-lux ute that offers a lot of the same creature comforts as the Lexus, but for nearly $20,000 less on the sticker. Yes, the Acadia packs a mere V6, but it offers just 11 fewer horses versus the GX's V8, while delivering better fuel economy (at least on paper, according to the EPA).
Where the Lexus excels, like its counterparts from other luxury utility makers like Mercedes-Benz and BMW, is in its road-smoothing ride and steadiness, where very little from the outside world intrudes on one's enjoyment of basking in the interior warmth and stellar sound system.
Couple odd things I encountered: I noted some unusual ventilation on automatic mode (and without any tri-zone on), where I'd detect a cool breeze in the center of the vehicle which detracted from the otherwise temperate cabin; the active cruise control is one of those that does its job of slowing down, right to 20 mph when it simply gives up and hands over control to the driver - not ideal, and requires always being "on your toes" which is the opposite of what you want in active cruise control; and the rear gate is side-hinged, which is OK except that if you park in tight parking confines (like with a car close behind you in a space) you might not be able to get it open very far, and it's passenger-side hinged meaning you have to work around it if you parallel park on the normal right side of the road.
Lot to like here, but buyers should at least be aware of these differences.
ASSOCIATE ROAD TEST EDITOR BRAD CONSTANT: I could cruise in this 2013 Lexus GX 460 Premium all day long. The ride is comfortable, there is adequate power, a great view of the road and competent handling.
My favorite aspect has to be the interior. The seats are comfortable, providing support in all of the right places. I like the center console layout, and all of the buttons are in reach. Lexus even put in the conversation mirror that drops down above the rearview mirror so you can see the entire rear seat, which is convenient for those with kids.
On the road this thing is stout. The suspension soaks up the bumps nicely and does a good job at controlling body roll in all directions. I was impressed with how this big boy took the corners, too. Overall, the brakes do a great job at slowing the ute down, the steering is direct - thought it lacks feel - and the handling is enough for you to have some fun throwing a big SUV through the turns.
However, I have to agree with Greg and Bob, this engine should be making more power. It's a big V8 that could easily be making more than 400 hp. That would be a big difference, and one that I would love to experience in the big GX 460.
When it comes down to whether or not I'd want one, the answer is no. It's nice, comfortable and stylish, but it's not the best luxury SUV on the market. Give me a big Mercedes-Benz GL instead. This is when it's important to note that the GX 460 SUV will be dropped for 2016 and replaced with a GX that will be more crossover than full-fledge body-on-frame SUV. That one should make up for the deficiencies of the current GX 460, and I have a feeling it will be even more fun to drive.
2013 Lexus GX 460 Premium
Base Price: $59,135
As-Tested Price: $69,395
Drivetrain: 4.6-liter V8; 4WD, six-speed automatic
Output: 301 hp @ 5,500 rpm, 329 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm
Curb Weight: 5,305 lb
Fuel Economy (EPA City/Highway/Combined): 15/20/17 mpg
AW Observed Fuel Economy: 15.9 mpg
Options: Wide view front and side monitor, dynamic cruise control, lane departure alert, intelligent high-beam headlights, and crawl control ($3,170); rear entertainment package including dual screen DVD with wireless headphones, audio and video inputs ($2,400); intuitive park assist ($500); preferred accessory package including cargo net, cargo mat, wheel locks ($260)
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