Why You Should Buy a Lexus GX470 Instead of a Toyota 4Runner!

[@buscampers]

Great video. I had a 3rd Gen 4Runner for years. I wanted the V8 4Runner but couldnt find anything that caught my eye (especially since it was only available for a few years) then I found out that the V8 came standard in the GX470. I've been driving my 2007 GX for 2 years now and I just turned 200k miles. I love it. Its comfortable, rides extremely nice and has plenty of power.

[@chollythecrazycorgihesinsa6505]

I have an 08 and love it!!! (Mine is black too) Just swapped out the Air Suspension in the rear Don’t forget to change the timing belt every 100,000 miles

[@LexusGX460-OFF-ROAD]

*Lexus GX is always the answer... always loved the rear spoiler on the 470* 😃

[@RoadsOptional]

Right??? I had to have it on mine.

[@supitown6013]

I have a 2003 GX470 which just passed 300,000 miles without missing a beat. Best and most reliable vehicle I have ever owned.

[@The_Wizard_of_Naz]

Same but mine is an 04 4runner. Have had since 70k miles!

[@paulmaenza4041]

Did you have to rebuild the transmission?

[@joshuaha71]

@@The_Wizard_of_NazMine 09 just passed 200K miles. I recently replaced the steering rack.

[@nickcutting8242]

I had a 21 4Runner then an 08 gx470 now I’m back to a 24 4Runner. V8 fun but 4Runner feels better

[@simplyjones3495]

​@@nickcutting8242 4runner feels better how? Pls elaborate, serious question. Thanks

[@tylerdlewis]

Love my 2004 GX470. The two 2UZ-FE in it is the million mile engine. Two tundras with the same engine reached 1 million miles. Great off road and these engines are bulletproof.

[@damienbell3155]

I luv my 04 RWD sequoia,,,,, 144700 miles. I just did timing belt water pump last May 2023. People that ride with me are blown away on how smooth the engine is. I tell them yah this is one of the greatest engines ever made. It originally was designed to be a small engine for a smaller aircraft. I worked at toyota Lexus scion for 15 yrs

[@noctilucent7396]

I have a 100 series land cruiser, i think this Gx shares the steering wheel lower vent as well. That thing is a joy.

[@truthbetold-jq8iw]

I bought a '07 in 2020 from a one owner senior couple with 99k. It is the best most comfortable riding vehicle I've ever owned. The Mark Levinson system was a plus also.🙂

[@Maverick_cogx]

Definitely want to note that the GX470 comes with A-Trac standard. It is not selectable and automatically kicks in in low range around 1200-1500 rpms. Also, I believe that the only 4Runner than has a center locker is the limited unless you go 3rd gen. Otherwise, great video. I have a 2007 GX and have done so much with it. Very easy to build out! Other than the air to coil conversion, it costs pretty much the same to modify as parts are almost identical with the 4Runner counterpart.

[@BrunoDeSoto]

I absolutely love my 2004 GX 470. 248,000 miles on the odometer and it keeps running perfectly. 🙂

[@OTFO]

As a GX470 owner myself, I agree with 99% of what you said! 😊

[@FullsendOffroad]

I soon plan on considering 4Runner, GX470, and FJ Cruiser. I'm stuck between the 3. I hope this helps. I've been leaning towards an FJ for now though.

[@RoadsOptional]

I have a buddy with a FJ locally! Thanks for the video idea!!!

[@FullsendOffroad]

@@RoadsOptional would be useful. Thanks!!

[@jwc3104]

I was torn between 4runner and GX470. For months and months I went back and forth. Then 100 Series showed up, I bought that.

[@veganotactico3362]

fair points...expensive to fix...I have a 03 sequoia....it fits my needs and less expensive to fix...

[@RoadsOptional]

You’d be shocked at the number of parts on this thing that are interchangeable with 4th and 5th gen 4Runner 👀 but fair point! I also considered a first gen sequoia, they are very cool rigs.

[@jeffg3975]

I don’t think they’re anymore expensive than a 4Runner to fix, especially if you’re mechanically inclined. I have two 5th gen’s and maintain my mom’s GX470. Literally no difference in costs across the board other than the GX calls for higher octane.

[@MalikOG]

I just brought an 2003 Toyota Sequoia Limited for $4,000 cash with 193,000 miles. One Best car I ever bought . I’m thinking a second car maybe 2003-2009 4Runner or 2002-2009 Lexus gx460. It’s a hard decision

[@JorgeGonzalez-nc7uk]

The headroom in the GX is way better and way more comfortable.. I also had a 4Runner v8 and the best thing about it is that it gets better mpgs

[@RoadsOptional]

Headroom is a very huge improvement that isn’t discussed enough. Great callout!

[@barryscott990]

I drove them back to back a few years ago, thinking for sure I would prefer the GX. But, surprisingly I liked the 4runner better, the way it drove and driving position, several other things, looks too. I know the v8 engine is bombproof, and the v6 is a bit underpowered, although the v6 is very reliable in its own right. Ultimately bought the 4runner, and OK it didn’t have a thing to do with being less expensive.

[@jameskocks4734]

i have been eyeing these for a while now. the ones to get are the base models with the cd player. theyre hard to find but not impossible.

[@iTzReVeRTZz]

Why are those the ones to get? been looking at then but prefer the nav with backup camera, although im not against installing my own headunit amp and speakers just curious as to why the base model is better

[@peterouuu]

the 3rd row are actually an option! most most of them did have it. the 3rd row also included the rear a/c system. the 2 row models didn’t have rear air

[@RoadsOptional]

I didn’t know! I’ve never seen one without the 3rd row. The more you know 🧐

[@MrVolosong]

Helpful, informative video. Well done! I notice you have Weathertech side window rain guards. If you installed them, did you notice an increase in wind noise after installation?

[@bcbw07]

Y’all are awesome this is awesome, I’m going to go work on my GX and install some parts now.

[@Youmissedme-i5z]

Wood grain on your steering wheel is nice because it doesn't wear out and look like trash like leather and nylon steering wheels always do after about 100,000 miles.

[@gmoney5947]

I’ve got a 2011 Honda pilot with 177k and the steering will has actually held but, but my 2008 gx 470 is still perfect (the wheel, not the center). Dash isn’t broken but it looks like someone was stabbed in the passenger seat. I need some sheep seat covers.

[@stevengoebel2730]

I agree 100%. I am looking for a 2008 gx470 with under 180K miles or a mid 2000's Land Cruiser

[@tyleraguilar2474]

I have a GX 470 and 08 limited 4Runner I’m looking at this weekend. Both similarly priced but the 4Runner is in slightly better condition

[@gmoney5947]

I just had a gx470 thrown in my lap by my boss. I didn’t know I was gonna have a Lexus in my driveway until 3 days before I had it in my driveway. My Buick is on its last leg. $4k with 235k miles. I’ve got the best boss in the whole world!

[@cricky6239]

I’ve owned a 2010 4Runner, and two weeks ago got a 2012 gx 460. It’s night and day difference. And would go as far to say there’s almost no reason to get a 4Runner over a gx when buying one that’s over 5 years old. The 4Runner was a base model sr5 for $17k at 108k miles, the gx was the premium trim at $18k with 120,000 miles. Meaning I have air ride, mark levinson sound system, TV screens in the back, power third row, heated steering wheel, and most importantly cooled seats haha. For $1000 more I got a car that has fixed every major complaint I had with the 4Runner without compromising at all. The 4Runner was heavily underpowered, and would borderline be scary trying to merge onto the highway. The GX has plenty of power for merging and the v8 truly sounds incredible for an suv like this. Also feels smooth at 90mph, 4Runner was scary going faster than 70. The 4Runner I would be miserable driving in for more than 30 minutes because the seats hurt my back so badly. The GX I drove from Minnesota to New Jersey and besides sleeping I didn’t have any stops that lasted more than it took to fuel up because it is such a comfortable place to be. Gas mileage is essentially the same, only small gripe is the standard 3rd row. I don’t personally need it and the second row is definitely a little smaller than the 4Runners second row because of this. Not cramped by any means though.

[@ryaniam22]

Do you use premium fuel in your gx? Do you have too? Thanks

[@iskdude9922]

Make sure to change out the coolant. They can eat away at the gasket and blow. Could warp your block and or head.

[@ClintG-ff3ln]

I bought 07 GX in 2019 for about 13,000. It was the same cost as the same year and mileage forerunner at the time, and my wife is already in a Lexus RX so I was hardly to hop on the Lexus bandwagon. I can't believe how much stuff on the GX is standard for all of them.

[@bryanwolfe9350]

Nice overview!

[@c.a.nixiii4650]

The V8 and Trans are a 500K+ miles with regular maintenance. Many say up to 1mil miles. Bulletproof! Just make sure you religiously change the timing belt and water pump at 90K increments. And there are sooooooo many accessories and replacement parts. Both Lexus and third party. It is a cult classic. I got my 2004 4 years ago and have done a lot to it slowly. Including a really great 10in head unit that has been just about perfect and gives it a modern feel. was great when I got in and only paid $7000. Prices have gone up but it you are willing to put some time into them you can likely find a nice one with about 200K or less for less than $10K. Mine now has 235K miles. I have a couple of videos from two years ago I posted for myself as a time capsule and feel free to have a look. Like new and drives amazing! Cheers!

[@DanPocketRocket]

Your wheel set up makes it look way more balanced.

[@ml989]

I picked up a 2006 with 242k miles and drives like new. No dash lights on. Perfect maintenence history. I paid 7k! All my friends are jealous.

[@RoadsOptional]

Even with that mileage, that’s a steal! Nice buy

[@MalikOG]

Damn! I’m looking at an 2004 Gx470 for $2500 with 266,000 miles now.

[@andybreuker4759]

@@MalikOG did you buy it? I just started looking at the Lexus GX, amazing vehicles

[@MalikOG]

@@andybreuker4759 It’s still for sale, sorry it’s the LX 470 not GX 470

[@MalikOG]

@@andybreuker4759 It’s still for sale, sorry it’s the LX 470 not GX 470

[@howz8404]

But does the hatch window roll down?... lol

[@RafaelPerez-vz3nz]

Nice I want to buy a GX already modified so I don’t have to buy any of that stuff

[@bryanbonillaart2167]

Just bought my 470 for 5k. Completly scored lol

[@robertweaver6293]

Bought my 2012 GX460 for the same reasons. I like the 470 look better than the new 460s.

[@Gazika1984]

Lexus gx 470 is buletproof and most relaible suv ever..I love it

[@The_Wizard_of_Naz]

Would still like to get my hands on the 4th gen4runner unicorn.. the 09 "trail edition"

[@RoryBradley-f2m]

I’ve got a 2010 4th gen trail edition 250k miles. My favorite vehicle by a landslide

[@RoryBradley-f2m]

*5th gen

[@rtpas57]

I have 03 4runner V8 and 08 GX470 V8. Same engine. The GX handling is way better.

[@RoadsOptional]

It’s gotta be the badge

[@jacobstone4real]

Convinced me! Working on selling my Crosstrek with negative equity haha

[@24hrstolive27]

the only issue and dont know if its an issue is that you have to put premium gas in this rather than regular in Toyota correct?

[@RoadsOptional]

In the research I've done and my ownership experience, premium is definitely a better option, but by no means necessary.

[@motruthhunter]

I have had several 4 Runners and now have a GX470. There is no comparison.

[@phillipturner5853]

the only thing i wish my GX had is the roll down rear window.

[@vinceyumul5658]

you want a 4runner V8 limited not the GX470 hehe

[@phillipturner5853]

@@vinceyumul5658 which is exactly what i bought about six weeks ago 😂. 2005 V8 4x4 limited.

[@vinceyumul5658]

@@phillipturner5853 hey man me too, i feel very lucky with mine!! Planning to get the frame honeysealed and a chill 2” lift.

[@phillipturner5853]

@@vinceyumul5658 im in ga. all im going to do it is wheels/tires (all terrains) and some interior add ons. nothing major. mine wasnt purchased for major offroad fun. just the occasional excursion.

[@johnkennedy7463]

I have pulled out plenty jeeps never had a jeep had to help me

[@k24hybrid]

Hahaha the struggle filming is REAL!! 😉😁. I'd like an LX470 vs GX470, pro/cons and why your decision. Thanks!!!

[@TRONABORON]

Agree with your view! Recently picked up a LX470 for just under 10G, having the V-8 is nice-

[@mieschabear]

i went with the GX470...no way i woulda found a 4 Runner comparably spec'd here for that price. having the V8 with variable valve timing is the only way.

[@dermotwallace5533]

Great, explanatory video for the real differences. Thank you.❤❤👏🏻👏🏻

[@BC-te9ow]

You forgot to talk about the factory cassette tape player! You could bust out some old mix tapes!!

[@RoadsOptional]

Ahhh so right! Very huge miss on my part 😂

[@macy725]

Jeep will destroy these at rock crawling but if someone asked me what vehicle i would take on a 5 hour drive on rhe highway then hit a 10 hour drive on backroads through the desert i think im going with my gx.

[@nickgeorgiou4350]

Not only that but you can drive it for 10 years and sell it with barely a loss...try doing that with tj or any jeep for that matter

[@iskdude9922]

You can get front and rear lockers for 1k each. And you can get aftermarket sway bar disconnect type upgrades.

[@macy725]

​@@iskdude9922 Plus the air compressor lol. And the install will be 1200 minimum.

[@jesseserrano6520]

A jeep or Fiat 😂😂😂😂

[@SkinnySkinch]

The 4runner does not "almost exclusively come with a V6" where did you get this info from? I have both of these vehicles. Both have the exact same V8. 2003 4Runner all time 4wd and V8.

[@RoadsOptional]

They do have the same V8! This video is not exclusively comparing 4th gen 4Runners and GX470s. If you look at ALL the 4Runners on the road, 4th gen’s like yours with the V8 are a very small percentage.

[@247365Jake]

Doesn’t get the same gas mileage

[@Victorrrr]

I want a GX 470 so bad 😂

[@jeffreyvai6750]

This is awesome but stop telling people our secret!!!

[@davidsflag]

The thing that I don't like about that V8 is that they come with a timing belt and not a chain 🥲

[@SupramanTRD]

It means no oil leaks from a timing chain cover

[@RoadsOptional]

Timing chain would definitely be nice. However, every 90k paying a few grand isn’t the worst thing 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@JorgeGonzalez-nc7uk]

It’s better with a belt since it will never have to be open for a stretched chain

[@runrundave]

Is this a scam to make the Toyota more readily available for him?

[@RoadsOptional]

Shhhhhh 🤫

[@abasi1968]

Lexus is a Toyota it's a Toyota engine..... Toyota owns Lexus... It has one of the most bulletproof engines that can go to a million miles of over 500,000 miles is lumpy's you take care of the engine and it's repairs when needed to and replacement parts... They are the same vehicle engines

[@TheHonestPeanut]

Same price, better interior, lasts twice as long. Why not 🤷‍♂️

[@impactthroughmylenz]

Lexus lx 570

[@MiKe_eKiM]

1st gen seqouia

[@arolex11]

or a GEN 4 V8 4runner

[@jameskocks4734]

if you can find them in this configuration. not easy to find in good condition.

[@___Karma__]

To be fair he did mention them, as well as their rarity.

[@Darkhare33]

@@jameskocks4734 Yeah my limited 2006 4runner has v8 and air suspension as well as leather. I prefer the toyota styling.

[@jameskocks4734]

@@Darkhare33 i have one in 2wd with the V8 and its a great truck but im ready for a change. 2wd aint gonna cut it for i want to do. the GX's plentiful on the market right now.

[@carlos220026]

I think you ment why you should buy a 4runner 😂

[@LexusGX460-OFF-ROAD]

no he has it right! 😅

[@justinserna9995]

4Runners are over priced no third row and cloth for the same money and a v6

[@Jetlifeetravi]

4Runners cost more and have nowhere near the same amenities. Not to mention Lexus' are more likely to have been maintained by the soccer moms driving them

[@alwinciocortez8649]

I hate leather that’s a no for me

[@thehoofersclub]

If you ever traveled into Death Valley there's only one gas station in the park that carries 91 octane and that's at Furnace Creek. The price at the pump there can run $7-8 a gallon easy. The GX model runs best in 91 whereas a 4 Runner doesn't require premium grade fuel. Deal breaker.

[@RoadsOptional]

The previous owner and myself don’t use 91 😅. Never had any issues at 180k, the consensus in the GX forums is that 91 isn’t needed, but can help things run better 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@iheartgs400]

No need for 91 octane lol have tested both 91/87 and never saw any difference in fuel economy and performance granted mines is an 03 Non VVTI variant.

[@andywerner6399]

i use 93 Octane since i love immediate throttle response, only drive 500 miles a month so gas budget not a problem

[@KGX470]

Just another remake video of other ppls vids. No new info

[@10cosmic]

just get an lj rubicon

[@RoadsOptional]

Did Jordan send you?

[@sergemoor9789]

What ? You bought lexus instead of toyota ? Wow you must know a lot about cars it just one problem lexus is toyota

[@w0wsuchdoge]

If the off-roading/overlanding is driving down a dirt road than yeah the Toyota is better. For anything serious it has to be a jeep

[@RoadsOptional]

I’d be curious what you consider serious, I’ve seen some IFS and solid front axle Toyotas tackle some gnarly stuff 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@james_the_darklord]

You'll need a Toyota to tow your jeep out of the trail 😂

[@w0wsuchdoge]

@@james_the_darklord has literally never happened to me lol but I do see broken Toyotas with ifs all the time 😂

[@w0wsuchdoge]

@@RoadsOptional referring to Toyotas with IFS. Toyota hasn’t made a solid front axle in a long time.

[@zackeryeckenrod6549]

Last real jeep was an 2006 new jeeps are straight junk ever since stellantis took over. I have a jeep tj and 2 4runners and a gx470 my jeep is alot more capable offroad but thats about it. For dd vehicle toyotas are way more reliable.

[@Docudate]

I have a 2004 GX470 with 150000 miles. It is a one owner car always in Arizona. The chassis notification came on and now the back wheels spin independently from the front wheels and the car drives poorly. I can go forward or backward but turning is difficult. Does anyone know what is wrong and about how much it would cost to get it fixed? Before this happened, I could feel a vibration. Thanks for your thoughts