2005 Lexus GX 470 Base

Vehicle Overview, , The Lexus GX 470 is positioned between the automaker's car-based RX 330 and the premium-luxury LX 470. Equipped with full-time four-wheel drive, the GX 470 promises the luxury appointments and workmanship of a Lexus sedan., , Roll-sensing side curtain-type airbags became available during 2004, and a rear backup camera was offered with the optional navigation system. A Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System also became available. With KDSS, hydraulic control acts upon the stabilizer bars to reduce roll stiffness in response to changing conditions., , A stronger V-8 that generates an additional 35 horsepower, for a total of 270 hp, goes into the 2005 model. A new Sport Package includes KDSS, smoked front and rear lenses, a dark graphite finish on the 17-inch alloy wheels and black bird's-eye maple wood trim inside. The optional navigation system now integrates Bluetooth wireless capability., , , Exterior, , The styling of the GX 470's exterior is intended to resemble other Lexus vehicles. Integrated fender flares and illuminated running boards are installed., , The GX 470's wheelbase and length are a bit shorter than the LX 470's. It is slightly taller and 2.4 inches narrower than its costlier companion. A power sunroof is standard. Alloy wheels hold 17-inch tires. Rear Adaptive Height Control raises the vehicle for extra clearance and lowers it for easier entry and exit., , , Interior, , Seating for five people is standard, but the GX 470 can seat up to eight occupants when equipped with an optional third-row seat. Standard features include automatic climate control, leather-upholstered seating and trim, an in-dash six-CD changer, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and an overhead console with an integrated HomeLink transmitter., , An optional DVD-based entertainment system features a high-resolution screen. Additional options include rear air conditioning, a Mark Levinson audio system and a DVD-based navigation system with a rearview camera., , , Under the Hood, , For 2005, the 4.7-liter V-8 produces 270 hp and 330 pounds-feet of torque; it drives a five-speed-automatic transmission. When equipped with the optional towing package, maximum towing capacity is 6,500 pounds., , Full-time four-wheel drive includes a center differential that splits power 50/50 between the front and rear wheels. A Low-range mode is present., , , Safety, , Side-impact airbags for the front seats, side curtain-type airbags for the first and second rows, Active TRAC traction control and antilock brakes are included. Lexus' Vehicle Stability Control electronic stability system uses throttle intervention and/or individual wheel braking. Downhill Assist Control aids steep offroad descents., , , Driving Impressions, , The pleasant, enjoyable GX 470 shines brightest when traveling off-road. Active TRAC stays quite busy when going uphill, while Downhill Assist Control is amazing. Unless you touch the gas or brake, Downhill Assist Control keeps the vehicle moving very slowly., , This sport utility vehicle rides smoothly most of the time, but it takes an occasional bump with a jolt. Other than a slight driveline drone, the GX 470 is quiet. The seats are supportive and almost as comfortable as those in the LX 470.