2008 Lexus GX Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The new Lexus GX 470 proves that this "old-fashioned" SUV-body-on-truck-frame model still has plenty of life left in it. For 2008, there...
The new Lexus GX 470 proves that this "old-fashioned" SUV-body-on-truck-frame model still has plenty of life left in it. For 2008, there are only cosmetic changes - new metallic finishes and some interior trim additions.
The GX 470, based on the Toyota 4Runner, provides comfortable seating for five. An optional third-row seat expands seating to eight, yet, as with most third rows, the space is for children. However, being a Lexus, that's no ordinary space: An optional DVD entertainment system, ranked one of the best, features a nine-inch-wide, high-resolution screen that lowers from the headliner and the third row has its own air-conditioning.
With three rows of seats in place, the GX 470 has a 13-cubic-foot cargo bay. Fold down or remove the two rear rows, and you'll find more than 77 cubic feet available. For comparison's sake, here are cargo capacities for a couple of competitors: Mercedes-Benz M-Class, 72.4 cubic feet; BMW X5, 62 cubic feet.
Up front, the driver and passenger are treated to large, comfortable, roomy seats, rich leather and bird's-eye maple trim. Gauges, instruments, and switches are typical Lexus - large, easy to read, and well labeled.
All of this comfort and roominess is motivated by a typically smooth Lexus 4.7-liter V8, which spins out 263 whisper-quiet horsepower. This power flows seamlessly through a five-speed automatic transmission that pushes and pulls (with standard full-time four-wheel drive) the GX 470 from 0-60 mph in 8.1 seconds; the GX 470's towing limit is 6,500 pounds. With its variable valve timing, the V8 earns EPA estimates of 15/19 mpg city/highway. It will run on unleaded regular, though Lexus recommends 91 octane.
Both comfortable highway cruising and true off-roading are real options due to the state-of-the-art suspension systems built into the GX 470. Variable-ratio rack-and-pinion steering adapts to the task. The standard adaptive variable suspension monitors shock-absorber damping at each wheel, and there are four driver-selectable suspension settings. The GX 470 has an optional Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System that can disengage its stabilizer bars for more suspension flexibility over any kind of off-road terrain. Also included are antilock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, Vehicle Stability Control, Downhill Assist Control, and Hill-Start Assist Control.
Basically, the GX 470 has you covered going, coming, sideways, up or down hills and on or off road - all of this with Lexus luxury. The GX 470 represents the SUV as an automotive artform.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2008 Lexus GX appreciate its luxury, off-road capability, and comfortable long-distance driving. Many drivers love the build quality and towing capacity, but some express concerns about the outdated technology and fuel economy, recommending it as more suitable for leisure rather than daily commuting."
Despite being a 2008 vintage vehicle it still has some modern features such as Bluetooth connectivity for phones. This vehicle drives great for a heavy suv beast.
January 25, 2023Very nice ride. It exceeded my expectation. Ive owned 3 Toyota 4runners, a Prius, a Camry and a RAV4 XSE hybrid....so I anticipated a good vehicle. I was pleasantly surprised by the ride quality, as it exceeds the others which were very good.
February 13, 2020This is a remarkably capable Toyota Land Cruiser with Lexus Luxury. Affordable luxury with off road ability. Got everything and more than a 4Runner for much less. It is easily a 250-300K car. My wife has one and I am getting ready to buy my second one for thousands less than anything else with comparable luxury and ability.
September 27, 2020What owners say
Despite being a 2008 vintage vehicle it still has some modern features such as Bluetooth connectivity for phones. This vehicle drives great for a heavy suv beast.
January 25, 2023Very nice ride. It exceeded my expectation. Ive owned 3 Toyota 4runners, a Prius, a Camry and a RAV4 XSE hybrid....so I anticipated a good vehicle. I was pleasantly surprised by the ride quality, as it exceeds the others which were very good.
February 13, 2020This is a remarkably capable Toyota Land Cruiser with Lexus Luxury. Affordable luxury with off road ability. Got everything and more than a 4Runner for much less. It is easily a 250-300K car. My wife has one and I am getting ready to buy my second one for thousands less than anything else with comparable luxury and ability.
September 27, 2020Over engineered. Best suv made till date. Navigation is outdated, rest very thing is excellent,
August 14, 2020Great for Off roading and snow driving. Best Luxury in 4x4 SUV segment. Not great on gas mileage so think twice if you plan to use this as a commute vehicle. Absolute comfort on long distance rides. Great Towing capacity. 7'th row seat is only for children. DVD Nav system is a little outdated. My Verizon phone's VZ Navigator is much better. Great Build quality.
September 16, 2008I bought this car brand new and has enjoyed every moment of it. - This is a great family car, rides smooth, has several options, towing package, height control, rear camera, DVD and Navigation system, blue tooth ready, 6 CD changer, wheat interer-leather/burgandy exterior, sun roof and much much more. Hwy miles and long comute to work.
October 15, 20121. Engine has the displacement value of a V8; power of a V6; and fuel economy of a semi. 2. No center console and awkward cup holders. 3. Audio head unit is not able to be upgraded due to integrated climate controls so you are stuck with an outdated audio system. - No option to add Apple Car Play.
January 19, 2021Split on two and three stars because initially it looks pretty nice. The exterior was 8/10 minor dings and fading but nothing crazy for a 15 yo vehicle. Interior I would say closer to 6/10 initially it looked nice but there is enough evidence of a previous smoker, dings and on top of that navigation dvd drive did not work which prevented most of the touch screen menu from working. Also the drivers chair would tilt back but not come back forward even when pressing the button hard (enough to fear I’d break it more). Engine sounded ok to my weak ears but my wife didn’t like the sound at start up. And lastly their was a slight steering wheel shimmy at 50-60mph, likely a balancing issue or alignment with the new tires. If I had time and money all these issues might seem minor but for my situation they all just added up to a not worth the risk. Many of these issues only came to light when I brought a second pair of eyes so be informed it looks decent and if these issues don’t concern you it could be a real nice ride.
July 12, 2023Perfect size to.move lots of stuff but drives like a luxury car.
December 16, 2022Trims & specs
Base MSRP $46,815 | Seating 8 |
Engine 4.7L 263 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity 13.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain AWD |
