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2003 Model GX470
Lexus introduced their first true midsize SUV for 2003. It was based of the same platform as the Toyota 4Runner in the US and Toyota Prado 120 in the overseas market. The body styling of the GX and Prado are very similar in many aspects, with rear barn door and higher roof line. There are a number of differences like the front bumper, headlights, etc.
The Lexus GX470 only came with the 4.7 V8 also found in the Land Cruiser and 4Runner, it also came with the new A750E 5 speed auto transmission. It was also only available with the adjustable rear air suspension and adjustable shocks.
The interior was a significant upgrade from the 4Runner both in terms of materials and size.
Some of the key specifications:
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2003 Lexus GX 470
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GENERAL
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Location of final assembly
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Tahara, Japan
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Body style
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4-door SUV
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EPA size class
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Special purpose
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Drivetrain layout
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Front engine/4WD
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Airbags
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Front/side/curtain
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POWERTRAIN
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Engine type
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4.7L V-8 cast-iron block, alum head
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Bore x stroke, in
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3.70x3.31
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Displacement, cu in/L
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285/4.7
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Compression ratio
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9.6:1
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Valve gear
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DOHC, 4 valves/cyl VVT
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Fuel induction
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SFI
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SAE horsepower, hp @ rpm
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235 @ 4800
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SAE torque, lb-ft @ rpm
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320 @ 3400
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Transmission type
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A750F 5-speed auto
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1st
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3.52:1
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2nd
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2.04:1
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3rd
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1.40:1
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4th
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1.00:1
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5th
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0.72:1
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Reverse
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3.20:1
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Axle ratio
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3.73:1
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Final-drive ratio
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2.69:1
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Transfer-case model
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VF4BM
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Low-range ratio
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2.57:1
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Crawl ratio
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(1st x axle x low range) 33.7:1
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Recommended fuel
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Unleaded premium
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EPA fuel economy (city/hwy)
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15/18
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DIMENSIONS
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Wheelbase, in
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109.8
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Length, in
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188.2
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Width, in
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74.0
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Height, in
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73.0
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Track, f/r, in
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62.2/62.2
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Headroom, f/m/r, in
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41.0/40.4/36.1
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Legroom, f/m/r, in
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41.8/36.8/24.9
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Shoulder room, f/m/r, in
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57.5/57.4/56.8
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Cargo-area volume, cu ft
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112.3
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3rd row, seat up
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13.2
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3rd row, seat folded/removed
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39.8/49.7
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Back-row seat down
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77.5
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Ground clearance, in
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8.3
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Approach/departure angle (normal/high)
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31°/25°
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Base curb weight, lb
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4675
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Weight distribution, %, f/r
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53/47
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Payload capacity, lb
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1425
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GVWR, lb
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6100
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GCWR, lb
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11,500
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Towing capacity, lb
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6500 (est)
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Fuel capacity, gal
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23.0
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CHASSIS
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Suspension, f/r
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Ind, A-arms, coil springs, anti-roll bar; solid axle, air/link, panhard rod, anti-roll bar
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Steering type
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Rack and pinion
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Ratio
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15.7:1
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Turns, lock to lock
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3.04
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Turning circle, ft
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37.4
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Brakes, f/r
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13.3-in vented disc, ABS/12.3-in vented disc, ABS
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Wheels
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17x7.5 alloy
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Tires
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265/65HR17
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PERFORMANCE
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Acceleration (sec)
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0-30
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2.52
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0-40
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4.02
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0-50
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5.76
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0-60
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7.98
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0-70
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10.77
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0-80
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14.25
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0-90
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19.11
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Standing quarter mile (sec @ mph)
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16.05 @ 84.80
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Braking, 60-0, ft
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131
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Speed through 600-ft slalom, mph
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57.10
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As per Truck Trend.
It is a very good performer and has received high praise from a number of top magazines. It has since claimed Fourwheeler magazines Fourwheeler of the Year award twice in a row. This led to project Trailex.
Some of the common issues with the GX are:
- Driveline thump when stopping
- Driveline vibration at 65-70 MPH
2004 Model
For 2004 the GX underwent some minor changes. It received a sealed transmission with WS ATF, which is supposed to last the lifetime of the vehicle. This also means no dipstick for the trasnmission.
It also received KDSS as an option. KDSS is a suspension system that can automatically disconnect the swaybars in cross axle situations. This allows for more suspension flexibility in offroad conditions. As an added benefit it allows for stiffer swaybars, which improves the onroad handling substantially on the GX.
2005 Model
For 2005 the GX got the upgraded VVTi V8 with 270HP and 330 Lb/ft
Also the navigation system was upgraded from previous versions to make it more user friendly. It also included Bluetooth capability for mobile phones.
2005 GX470 Brochure
2006 Model
The 2006 model didn’t change much from the 2005 model.
Due to new SAE specifications power ratings were changed to 263 HP at 5400 RPM and 323 lb-ft at 3400 RPM.
Some the changes were:
- New Digital Lexus Link
- More coat hanger
- Additional color options
- New Park Brake Grip
2006 GX470 Brochure
2007 Model
The 2007 model has a few interior upgrades, but the exterior and mechanicals are carried over from 2006.
Interior upgrades:
- 5th Gen Naviation
- 9“ screen for RSES
- MP3/iPod plug in for audio system
- Upgraded Mark Levison audio now plays DVDs as well MP3/MWV CDs, also able to play movies with Nav system while parked
2007 GX470 Brochure
2008 Model
The exterior received a number of changes for 2008, including chromed door handles dark grille, clear lens indicators in the back and silver wheels. Also 2 new exterior colors.
The interiors has also received a number of changes, including chrome for the speakers, different leather and wood for seats/doors/dash.
The tire pressure system has also been updated to be faster acting.
2008 GX470 Brochure
2009 Model
No model changes were published for the 09 model year for the GX. The current generation GX is not expected to continue as a 2010 model year, similar to the 4Runner.
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