Leaving Excellence Alone: The 2017 Lexus GX460

The 2017 Lexus GX460.

Yes, the old phrase is "leaving well enough alone".  But where "well enough" doesn't describe the Lexus GX460, "excellence" does.

2017 Lexus GX460.

Our Publisher and Executive Editor has had the last couple of turns in a GX460,  the most recent being about two years ago, in a 2015 model.  His observations stand.

The Lexus GX460 is, along with its big brother, the LX570, which we reviewed just two weeks ago, one of a handful of truly capable luxury SUVs.  One size smaller than the LX, its competition is the Land Rover Discovery and the Mercedes-Benz GLE, both newer, more efficient---the 301-horsepower, V8-powered GX460 has an EPA fuel economy estimate of just 15 city/18 highway---designs.

2017 Lexus GX460 interior.

There is something to be said for those machines, and 2017 is the fourth model year of the GX460 without much in the way of major changes---the center stack of the instrument panel is beginning to look like a relic of a different age---but let's stop and consider Lexus' trump card, its unassailable reputation for quality and reliability.  That alone will keep the GX460 on customers' lists until an all-new one is ready.

Our test vehicle had a base price of $62,980 and a staggering list of standard features.  There were, as usual, options:

• A dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system with audio/video and HDMI inputs, a 12-volt power outlet and wireless headphones ($1,970)
• The Sport Design package---18-inch split six-spoke alloy wheels with gunmetal metallic finish, unique lower grille surround, unique front lip garnish, contoured side mirror covers with chrome, rear valance, deep red taillight graphic and chrome exhaust tips ($1,625)
• The Driver Support package---Mark Levinson audio system, pre-collision system with driver attention monitor, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert, intelligent high-beam headlights, wide-view front and side monitor and crawl control ($4,340)

With $975 delivery, processing and handling fee, the as-tested price came to $71,890.  Drive one, especially if your life includes weather and terrain changes, and you'll believe it is worth every penny.