The 2021 Lexus GX 460 is old school Lexus cool. I test drove the Luxury Trim with Claret Mica exterior and Black NuLuxe simulated-leather. My GX also had the optional Sport Design Package.
The luxury SUV hasn’t changed much over the years at its core but this more than capable, luxury SUV gets the job done with style.
The Highlights were the bold looks , comfortable seats, off road capabilities/power plus interior styling and technology. The ride is extremely nice as well and with this Luxury SUV you ride in comfort and style whether going to the Symphony or off-road on a mountain trail. The GX 460 totally delivers on comfort, luxury, and exceptional quality.
What’s New for 2021
- Available Premium Plus packages
- Silver 18-inch wheels available on Premium and Premium Plus packages
- Heated Wood-trimmed Steering Wheel available on Premium and Premium Plus packages
- Acoustic front side glass on all models
- Amazon Alexa compatibility
Driving Experience
The word versatility comes to mind when I think of my test week with the 7 passenger GX 460 Luxury. Passengers have it made in this luxurious SUV. The ride is nice and there is plenty of space for everyone plus easy access to A/C and heating vents and USB inputs.
As far as driving is concerned, you don’t feel the road as much because the ride is so comfortable which translates to a little less responsiveness and handling in turns. It’s a great ride and definitely has legit off road capabilities.
Exterior
The GX 460’s commanding appearance dominates with style and grace. This Lexus utility vehicle exterior design is sharp and an amazing blend of beauty and strength. The grill design and headlights are still a nice update from the previous model year. It has a sophisticated but muscular appearance. The Claret Mica exterior paint is a darker red like a maroon or red wine color.
Interior
2021 Lexus GX 460 has one of the best cabin and interiors in the segment. In non-base trims, most interior surfaces feature authentic wood or soft leather trim.
Interior accommodations upfront are really nice and in line with what you expect from Lexus. The second row works for adults and is made more comfortable with the captain’s chairs.The third row is best for kids. The base and Premium versions have NuLuxe simulated-leather upholstery. Instruments are clear and easily legible, but there are lots of buttons. It’s all finished impeccably.
Sport Design Package
My test version had the Sport Design Package and for the extra $2,020, it’s a great option.
- 19-inch split-six-spoke alloy wheels with Dark Gray and machined finish
- Sport Design front fascia with Dark Gray finish
- Sport Design side mirrors with chrome detail
- Sport Design rear valance with Dark Gray finish
- Exhaust tip with Gunmetal Metallic finish
- Scarlet taillamps
- Heated second-row captain’s chairs
Your passengers will love the Captain’s chairs plus the 19-inch wheels and the exterior enhancements look great.
Engine / Powertrain
This is truly a dual purpose vehicle. Every GX is powered by a 301-horsepower 4.6-liter V8 producing 329 lb.-ft. of peak torque. Combine that with a 6,500-lb. towing capacity, and you’ve got an ideal boat / toy hauler. Towing is aided with Trailer Sway Control, a function of the Vehicle Stability Control that enhances straight-line tracking.
A 6-speed automatic transmission sends power to all four wheels for full time 4WD. Full time 4 wheel drive with Active traction control distributes engine power between the front and rear axles, optimizing traction in a wide variety of conditions. This keeps you securely on the road by using sensors to detect the onset of wheel slippage, automatically applying the brake to the slipping wheel, and shifting power to the wheels with the most traction. You can expect around 16 MPG overall in gas mileage and 23 gallon fuel tank is standard.
Infotainment
The Navigation system has one of the largest split screens in its class. The 12.3-inch high-resolution multimedia display provides immediate, simultaneous access to audio or climate controls and various systems, including the voice-activated Navigation System.
The Mark Levinson Surround Sound Audio System was engineered by a company world-renowned by audiophiles, the available 330-watt audio system was tuned for more than 4,000 hours to optimize the acoustics of the vehicle. As a result, it features 17 speakers and 7.1-channel architecture, and enough clarity for listeners to identify the spatial position of each instrument in play.
Safety
The Panoramic View Monitor has high resolution cameras that enable you to see the vehicle from many angles. The Bird’s eye view has a wow factor and you can see if you are between the lines while parked among other things.
The Lexus comes with all the safety features Lexus customers are used to having like Pre-Collision Detection System , Lane Departure Alert and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. You basically get a gentle brake assist and/or steering wheel vibration along with sounds if the system detects you are about to collide with a person or vehicle or depart from your lane. You can turn it off or adjust sensitivity which helps you personalize the feature.
Conclusion
The 2021 Lexus GX 460 is a mixture of class, strength and a great old school SUV. This is a high end and off road capable SUV. You sacrifice some gas mileage for power and some handling for a more comfortable ride experience. This is a great option if you want Luxury, technology and that dual combination of city and off road performance.
The 2021 Lexus GX 460 starting MSRP $53,450 for the base model as tested $71,690
Here’s a link to compare versions below. Be sure to look at some of the new packages for 2021 as well.
