2004 Lexus GX 470 4dr SUV 4WD
2004 Lexus GX 470 4dr SUV 4WD REVIEW
The 2004 Lexus GX 470 stands as one of the most reliable and well-built mid-sized luxury SUVs from the early 2000s. It balances rugged off-road capabilities with a refined driving experience, making it perfect for drivers seeking versatility without compromising on comfort. From its advanced mechanical features to a well-appointed interior, the GX 470 offers a rich package of utility and luxury.
Find out about the 2004 Lexus GX 470 4dr SUV 4WD for sale here in our Ames Car Dealership Inventory. Also be sure to check out our 2007 Toyota Prius 5dr HB (Natl) and 2012 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sdn LTZ w/2LZ!
Mechanical Features
The beating heart of the 2004 Lexus GX 470 is a 4.7L DOHC SFI 32-valve V8 engine that generates ample power for both highway cruising and off-road ventures. The engine’s Electronic Throttle Control System with intelligence (ETCS-i) helps optimize the vehicle’s performance by adjusting throttle inputs for smoother acceleration, further enhancing its drive quality.
The SUV comes equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive (OD). The gated shifter provides easy control, and the 2nd gear start feature is particularly useful for starting the vehicle in slippery conditions. This combination ensures that whether you’re driving through the streets of Ames or off the beaten path, the GX 470 remains responsive and capable.
Key off-road features include Downhill Assist Control (DAC) and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC). DAC provides extra braking force when descending steep slopes, preventing any risk of sliding. HAC prevents the SUV from rolling backward when starting on an incline, which can be a lifesaver on rough terrains or uneven roads. The Torsen center differential with a manual locking feature distributes torque between the front and rear wheels, providing excellent traction, especially on slippery surfaces or rugged trails.
A Reliable 4WD System
The GX 470 is designed for serious off-roading while maintaining Lexus’s high standards of luxury. The full-time 4-wheel drive ensures that power is always delivered to all four wheels, offering maximum control over various terrains. The independent double-wishbone front suspension with coil springs and front/rear stabilizer bars ensures a stable and smooth ride, absorbing bumps and maintaining body control. The SUV’s suspension system is robust, providing excellent comfort on uneven surfaces while keeping the ride comfortable enough for day-to-day driving.
When it comes to tires, the GX 470 is equipped with 265/65HR17 mud and snow tires. These are perfect for handling different weather conditions, whether it’s a snowy winter in Ames or a muddy off-road adventure. The inclusion of a full-size spare tire adds an extra layer of convenience and security. If you’re shopping for cars at Ames car dealers, features like these make the Lexus GX 470 stand out among other options for used cars.
Braking and Handling
Handling is another area where the 2004 GX 470 shines. It features power rack and pinion steering that’s responsive, while engine-speed sensing helps adjust the steering effort depending on how fast you’re going, ensuring ease at low speeds and stability at higher speeds.
The vehicle’s braking system is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on both the front and rear, improving the cooling process and enhancing braking performance, especially under heavy usage. The Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) system helps balance braking power between the front and rear wheels, ensuring even braking across all four tires. Additionally, Brake Assist (BA) provides additional braking force when needed, especially in emergency situations, reducing stopping distance and ensuring safety.
Fuel Capacity and Range
The 2004 Lexus GX 470 has a 23-gallon fuel tank, which is relatively large, allowing for longer trips without frequent stops at the gas station. For families that often embark on road trips or explore the countryside, this large tank is a significant advantage. The SUV also comes with a fuel cap hanger, a small but thoughtful feature that prevents the fuel cap from being misplaced while refueling.
Exterior Design
Visually, the 2004 Lexus GX 470 is both rugged and elegant. It features a roof rack, which comes in handy for transporting extra gear during outdoor adventures. The color-keyed front and rear bumpers seamlessly blend with the overall body color, creating a unified and sleek appearance. Other exterior highlights include the chrome grille surround, which adds a touch of luxury, and color-keyed fender flares and lower body cladding, enhancing the SUV’s overall aesthetic.
One of the more practical exterior features is the inclusion of illuminated running boards with integrated front mudguards. These not only add a bit of flair but also provide extra protection against mud and debris while off-roading. In addition to the illuminated running boards, the vehicle has rear mudguards and front fog lamps integrated into the bumper, adding extra visibility in low-light conditions.
The GX 470 comes equipped with auto on/off headlamps featuring variable-off timing, which is a helpful convenience for those moments when you forget to turn your lights on or off. The heated power mirrors with a reverse auto-tilt function are useful for navigating tight parking spots and enhancing visibility in cold or rainy weather.
For those looking to compare cars for sale at different car dealerships near me, these small but practical features make the Lexus GX 470 a worthy contender among used SUVs.
Interior Comfort and Convenience
Stepping inside the 2004 Lexus GX 470 is like entering a well-crafted sanctuary. The birds-eye maple wood trim adorning the dashboard, center console, and door panels exudes luxury, while the soft-touch materials provide a premium feel. The attention to detail is evident in the 60/40 split-foldable and reclining 2nd-row seat with a center armrest, offering comfort and flexibility for passengers.
The interior features cut-pile carpeting and carpeted floor mats that make the cabin feel plush and inviting. Additionally, the SUV includes thoughtful touches such as a trip computer, which displays average and current miles per gallon, range, barometer, altimeter, and elapsed time, making it easy to track your journey.
For those who often check out used cars for sale, the GX 470’s range of high-tech features might catch your attention. A digital odometer with dual trip meters provides detailed mileage tracking, while a digital outside temperature gauge helps you stay aware of changing weather conditions. The inclusion of a digital clock keeps you punctual, and the tire pressure monitor system ensures you stay informed about your tires’ condition.
The vehicle also offers conveniences like power windows with one-touch up/down and pinch protection features, adding to the safety and ease of use. The retained accessory power ensures that the windows remain operational for a short period after the engine is turned off.
Other interior features include a HomeLink universal transceiver, allowing you to control garage doors or security systems, and a vehicle theft deterrent system, providing peace of mind when leaving your vehicle unattended.
Comfort for All Passengers
The 2004 Lexus GX 470 is designed with the passenger’s comfort in mind. The rear door and quarter window glass defogger ensures that visibility remains clear in adverse weather conditions, and the FM diversity antenna enhances radio signal reception for uninterrupted entertainment. The electrochromic rearview mirror with a compass minimizes glare from headlights at night, providing a safer driving experience.
Convenience also extends to the overhead console with a sunglass holder, dual visors with illuminated vanity mirrors, and the numerous assist grips placed throughout the cabin. The lighting system includes courtesy lights in the doors, a glove box light, dome lights, front map lights, and rear cargo lights, ensuring every area of the cabin is well-illuminated when needed.
For those comparing used cars for sale at Ames car dealerships, the practicality of these features combined with luxury touches makes the Lexus GX 470 an attractive option.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for Lexus, and the 2004 GX 470 is no exception. The SUV includes driver and front passenger multi-stage airbags, ensuring that the deployment of airbags is controlled based on the severity of the impact. Additionally, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags and front/rear roll-sensing side-curtain airbags further enhance protection in the event of a collision.
All seating positions are equipped with 3-point seatbelts, and the driver and front passenger seatbelts feature pretensioners and force limiters to reduce injury risk during a crash. Side-impact beams provide additional protection by reinforcing the vehicle’s structure, minimizing the impact during side collisions.
A thoughtful addition to the GX 470 is the inclusion of a first aid kit, allowing drivers to handle minor injuries during an outdoor adventure or on the road.
The 2004 Lexus GX 470 4dr SUV 4WD is an ideal vehicle for anyone in search of a reliable, luxurious, and capable SUV. Whether you’re tackling off-road adventures, commuting, or simply looking for a family-friendly vehicle, the GX 470 delivers on all fronts. From its robust mechanical systems and all-weather tires to the well-appointed interior and advanced safety features, the GX 470 provides excellent value.
If you’re searching for used cars for sale Ames, don’t overlook this luxury SUV—it offers a winning combination of comfort, reliability, and ruggedness that’s hard to beat. Find out about the 2004 Lexus GX 470 4dr SUV 4WD for sale here in our Ames Car Dealership Inventory. Also be sure to check out our 2007 Toyota Prius 5dr HB (Natl) and 2012 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sdn LTZ w/2LZ!