2021 Lexus GX
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Overview
While most of today's SUVs provide the tall ride height many drivers crave, they stop short of delivering the "go anywhere, do anything" utility implied in their names. The 2021 Lexus GX bucks that trend by delivering luxurious accommodations, styling, and true capability on and off the road. Indeed, the GX is a confident and feature-rich SUV; one that is designed for drivers that require near-limitless capability, and the 2021 GX is the best version yet. Lexus offers a Sport Design package among its list of available options, which includes unique wheels, a different front grille, and additional exterior chrome elements.
The Perfect Ride for...
The majority of luxury SUVs on the market can talk the talk but very few are capable enough when the going gets tough. If you're in search of a luxuriously appointed all-terrain cruiser that feels just as at home parked outside the country club as it is on (or off) a mountain pass, then the 2021 Lexus GX is just what you need. The GX 460 is a five-door sport-utility vehicle with seating for up to seven. It’s available in three trim levels (Base, Premium, and Luxury), with plenty of standard equipment.
Drive & Handling
There's only one engine option for the 2021 Lexus GX, but there is no need to worry as it offers plenty of capability for both on- and off-road driving.
The GX 460's standard mill consists of a 4.6-liter V8 that produces 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. That allows the GX to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.8 seconds, reach an electronically limited top speed of 110 mph, and tow up to 6,500 pounds.
That powerful engine is connected to a six-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The four-wheel-drive system is what really sets the GX apart from other luxury SUVs. While most of the competition consists of car-based crossovers, this Lexus offers genuine off-road capability.
An electronically controlled transfer case and Torsen limited-slip center differential send power to the wheels that have the most grip, while a suite of electronic aids helps the driver deal with tricky situations. These include Downhill Assist Control, Hill-start Assist Control, and Crawl Control, which keeps the vehicle moving at a steady, predetermined speed.
When it’s not dodging boulders and fording streams, the GX 460 will also return an EPA-estimated 16 mpg combined (15 mpg city, 19 mpg highway), which is respectable performance for a heavy-duty SUV with a big V8 engine.**
Key Features
Cutting-edge comfort tech
The base GX 460 comes standard with the Lexus Memory System for driver’s seat, outside mirrors, and steering wheel position; a power moonroof; Bluetooth® phone and streaming audio capability; and a rearview camera, among other features. In addition to the applicable features on the base model, the GX 460 Luxury adds heated and ventilated front seats, semi-aniline perforated leather interior trim, and auto-dimming power-folding outside mirrors.
The GX 460 can also be specified with a navigation and infotainment system, including a complimentary 10-year subscription to the Lexus Enform® App Suite, which includes smartphone-compatible apps; the Lexus Enform® concierge service; and HD Radio™ Real-Time Traffic and Weather (and Sports … and Stocks … and Fuel Prices) service with a one-year subscription.
Additional options on the Luxury model include a 17-speaker Mark Levinson® surround-sound audio system; a rear-seat video entertainment system; and the Driver Support package, which includes the off-road-oriented Crawl Control feature, automatic high-beam headlight control, adaptive cruise control (includes a pre-collision warning system), a lane departure warning system, and additional front and side parking cameras.
Safety
The GX’s capabilities also extend to the realm of safety. It comes standard with anti-lock brakes, stability control, Active Traction Control, driver and passenger front and knee airbags, and side-curtain airbags for all three rows. Since the GX was also designed with towing in mind, a standard Trailer Sway Control system works with stability control to keep things in line.
Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are optional, as is a Driver Support Package that includes lane departure warning and a pre-collision system with radar-guided adaptive cruise control.
Alternative Options
Perhaps you want the legendary Lexus luxury in the shape of a sedan instead. Luxurious interior detailing and incredible performance make the Lexus LS one of the most incredible sedans in the Lexus lineup. If you want the versatility of an SUV without the bulky size, consider the Lexus UX, the brand's remarkable luxury crossover.
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** EPA-estimated MPG. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
Image Credit: Lexus