It’s odd that this will be the second review I’ve made on an excessive, overpriced, fat-American-type vehicle in just a few weeks. I don’t usually hang out with people who drive these types of vehicles and rarely choose them over other cars in which to ride or drive, but life is unexpected like that, so I’ll roll with it. I had the pleasure of spending a couple of hours in a late-model Lexus GX470 last night, so I thought I would deliver my 2 cents.
First of all, as may already be obvious, I don’t typically like American or Japanese automobiles. I find them…boring…and generally lacking in precise detail or emotion or personality. There are few quirks on vehicles coming from Lincoln or Lexus, and if they do happen to have a few, they aren’t cute or endearing. This vehicle is no exception. Everything is in it’s place, nothing is offensive and everything works very smoothly.
What I immediately noted once I was seated was the difference in solidity and heft that the GX demonstrated as contrasting with that of the smaller and less expensive Lexus RX line. The doors on the RX slam shut as if hollow, whereas the GX’s were heavier and closed harder. To some, that may be an advantage of the RX but I find the tinny feeling unsettling rather than a sign of refinement. Further, when cranked, the series of events that occur in those 5 seconds were much quieter and more insulated than those in the RX. The steering wheel automatically (power) tilted and telescoped while the engine started up, both of which were far-off hints of sounds. It was a good sign!
Later, I rode in the back of the GX, and it was equally enjoyable and comfortable. The legroom wasn’t capacious, but the seat was very comfortable and there was a wide fold-down arm-rest in the center seat that was usable for both me and the other passenger in the back. Aside from the cabin itself, the ride, unsurprisingly, was quite plush. Several times we bounced over intersection crests or potholes and everything was handled calmly. For a truck that also has the capability of going down a 60% grade and clawing through mud, I found that range of skills impressive.
All in all, it was a pleasant place to spend an evening, and seemed to be a fairly competent car in most aspects. I’m not crazy about the exterior styling, which is too bulbous for my taste, but I would certainly consider one if I wanted a big SUV with pitiful gas mileage to toodle around in. 🙂
*The Lexus GX470 is sold as the Toyota Land Cruiser in most parts of South America, Europe and Asia.
Photo: www.automedia.com
