Last time we discussed selecting a racecar towing and overlanding vehicle, the spotlight was on the 1999 Lexus LX470. While the LX470 once represented an accessible option, inflation has dramatically increased its price, making it less budget-friendly today. Despite the LX470’s capable performance, I decided it was time for a change. The LX470 had certain limitations that I aimed to overcome by choosing a superior base vehicle, rather than investing in extensive modifications. This led me to my current tow rig: a 2007 Lexus Gx470. Let’s delve into the attributes that make this Lexus GX470 a compelling choice for a tow vehicle that’s equally adept at overlanding adventures.
Lexus GX470 Towing and Overlanding Vehicle
The Lexus GX series stands as the smaller sibling to the LX series. As expected, the GX470 is more compact than its big brother, the LX470. Specifically, the GX470 is four inches shorter, two inches narrower, and two inches taller, with a wheelbase that’s nearly three inches shorter. Furthermore, the GX470 is significantly lighter than the LX470. The GX470 boasts a curb weight of 4871-lbs compared to the LX470’s hefty 5590-lbs. This weight difference does elevate the center of gravity in the GX470, which is less than ideal, but the impact is not substantial enough to be a critical drawback. Generally, a longer wheelbase contributes to greater stability while towing. However, during my experience towing Bonnie to Texas, the GX470 surprisingly felt more stable than the LX470. This improved stability is likely attributed to the GX470’s newer and fresher suspension system.
Lexus GX470 Suspension and Chassis
The LX470 was nearing the point of requiring a suspension overhaul, making the prospect of transitioning to a newer chassis, less exposed to corrosive road salt, particularly appealing. The road salt prevalent in Chicago, used for de-icing, is incredibly harsh on vehicles, accelerating rust and corrosion. Although my LX470 was initially almost rust-free, within just three years, rust holes began to appear in the body. Compounding this issue, Toyota is known for chassis that are prone to rusting out even before the powertrain reaches the end of its lifespan. Acknowledging this, I’ve decided to retire my Toyota trucks from winter driving duties, unless my trusty Honda Accord, Monalisa, with 350k miles, finally gives out – which seems unlikely.
Rust-Free Lexus GX470 Chassis
Another key distinction lies in the height control system and which axles are adjustable. In the LX470, both the front and rear axles are height controllable at speeds under 10-mph. The system utilizes hydraulic fluid within the shocks to raise or lower the vehicle. Conversely, the GX470’s system only adjusts the rear axle height, employing airbags for inflation and deflation. Unfortunately, there are numerous reports suggesting that the airbag system in the GX470 is not consistently reliable. Consequently, I’m considering converting the GX470 to a traditional spring and strut suspension setup, potentially incorporating helper airbags to enhance towing performance. It’s truly unfortunate because the self-leveling feature provided by the airbags significantly improves the towing experience.
Lexus GX470 Airbag Suspension System
One of the most significant advantages of the Lexus GX470 is that every model is equipped with the legendary 2UZ engine. For those unfamiliar, the 2UZ is renowned as one of Toyota’s most dependable engines ever manufactured. It’s common to see these engines accumulate 400-500k miles with only basic maintenance. Should an engine replacement become necessary, the 2UZ engine can be readily found in a variety of vehicles, including any GX470, LX470, Land Cruiser (1999-2007), and numerous 4Runners (2003-2009). All of these vehicles share the same factory-rated 6500-lbs towing capacity. While all GX470s feature 5-speed automatic transmissions, compared to the earlier LX470s which had 4-speed automatics, neither is going to set any fuel efficiency records. They are known to be thirsty vehicles, but there is a slight improvement with the GX470. The LX470 averaged around 15 combined miles per gallon (CMPG), while the GX470 achieves 18 CMPG without towing. When towing, the CMPG for both remains in the 9-10 range.
Toyota 2UZ Engine Reliability
However, there are certain aspects of the GX470 that are genuinely frustrating. Firstly, the decision to have the rear hatch open like a conventional door is perplexing. This design is inconvenient, particularly when a trailer is hitched, as the trailer jack often obstructs the door’s swing. Even more bothersome is the absence of a center console in the USA market GX470 models. Whose misguided idea was that? It’s simply a poor design choice. And don’t even get me started on the scarcity of cupholders in this vehicle. Furthermore, the existing cupholders are of an unusual size – why, Toyota, why? It wasn’t until I struggled to place my fancy Starbucks drink securely that I truly felt like an old dad. Fortunately, numerous aftermarket companies offer cupholder inserts to address this issue. And if a center console is a must-have, it’s possible to replace the US-spec console with one from a Prado 150, available in other global markets.
Lexus GX470 Rear Hatch Door and Interior
Despite these minor annoyances, the Lexus GX470 remains an exceptional vehicle. That’s the GX470, and you should seriously consider buying one now before prices increase further. Treat yourself – it’s a Lexus, so you can easily justify it to your partner as a vehicle for them. You’re welcome! In the next installment, we’ll cover the essential baseline checks for a newly acquired vehicle and explore some modifications to enhance your track days and overall ownership experience.
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