The 2014 Lexus GX 460 gets a whole new face and a significant price drop. What are all the secrets behind the recent GX sales success?
| STATS | Starting Retail Price | As Tested Price | HP / Lb-Ft |
| 2014 Lexus GX 460 | $60,715 | $62,770 | 301 / 329 |
| EPA Rating MPG | As Tested MPG | ||
| Rating: LEASE IT! | 15 / 20 Combined 17 | Combined 16.9 |
First Impressions
The 2014 GX looks completely different from the front, all the same from the side, and with just the new lights in the back. There is not much new on the inside, other then the new higher resolution infotainment touch-screen and interface. Nonetheless, the GX interior is still once of the most comfortable places to be, and reminds of the bigger brother – LX 570.
Styling/Design:
If the front-end of the 2013 GX was a bit startled, the refreshed SUV grew a big Jay Leno-like chin. The Lexus spindle grille opening on the GX is the largest to date and extends lower for better aerodynamics. However, the slightly lower chin would be a hindrance if you ever did want to take it off-road.
GX 460 interior is a splendit place to be. The driver’s seat is sculpted just right and actually has a hint of sporty flare and yet is very comfortable. The second row seats are split, can slide, and recline. The electrically folding third-row is a different story. It has limited headroom and very limited leg room, so it’s not a place for full sized adults. It’s basically the same story as with the third row of the Toyota 4Runner.
The higher resolution of upgraded infotainment system is noticeable and is very welcome. This is really the price of entry into the luxury SUV segment, and it’s good that Lexus addressed this issue from last year.
Powertrain:
The smooth 4.6L V8 still calls the 2014 GX 460 home. It has the same rating of 301 hp @5,500 rpm and 329 lb-ft @3,500 rpm. You can barely hear it while idling or cruising around, but it will let its presence be known with a sophisticated growl if you stab the throttle. The GX can still tow up to 6,500 lbs and has an EPA rating of 15 MPG city and 20 MPG highway.
Handling/Ride:
The 2013 model I tested last year rode just a little harsh over rough pavement. The 2014 GX has made an improvement here. It still has height adjustable air suspension, but it has been refined even further and feels as silky as the LX. The transition between “Sport” and “Comfort” ride settings is still imperceptible.
This truck is a competent performer on pavement. The steering has good weight and decent feel. It still leans into corners, but does so in a very controlled manner. It does not have a sporty character. This SUV is meant for relaxed cruising and that’s exactly what it does. It has the ability to calm and relax.
It’s still great off-road, although the approach angle in the front is not very good. However, it had good rear axle articulation, adjustable height, low range, and locking central differential.
Competitors:
The GX 460 still competes against the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Land Rover LR4, Porsche Cayenne, Volkswagen Touareg, and (to some extent) Lexus LX 570. The 2014 Lexus GX 460 is improved over last year and have another very powerful secret weapon. It is also $4,710 less expensive than in 2013. This is an aggressive position and is another reason why the GX 460 is enjoying recent sales success.
GX sales were up 9.9% in 2013 over 2012. And it’s showing frighting improvement of 153.2% in February 2014 over February of 2013. Competition should take notice!
On the TFLcar scale of:
- Buy it!
- Lease it!
- Rent it!
- … or Forget it!
I give the 2014 Lexus GX 460 a Lease It! I was on the fence about the rating. On one hand, this luxurious SUV has improved, is a better value, and has no significant faults. On the other hand, it did not make me grin or excite me. It did however soothe and relax. In the end, the rating reflects that this SUV is not my first choice in the segment. However, if you like the style and character of this Lexus, you will not go wrong.
Check out this fun and snowy 2013 GX460 video.
Andre Smirnov is a life-long automotive enthusiast, writer, reporter, and software engineer. He has been a contributor at TFL since 2011. When not working or spending time with the family – you can find him tinkering in the garage or simply ‘going for a drive’.
