Updated 2022 Lexus GX 460 expands list of standard features

The Lexus GX 460 has looked pretty much the same since 2010, but has remained current by receiving updates along the way.

For 2022, the GX has a larger (10.3 inches) display for its touchscreen multimedia system with standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Other features added as standard equipment include navigation, Intuitive Parking Assist, and power folding outside mirrors with heat.

A new GX Black Line Special Edition model joins the lineup. Based on the Premium trim level, it’s an appearance package adding black exterior trim, unique glossy black 18- inch wheels, black open-pore wood interior trim, and black synthetic leather upholstery with gray inserts and stitching. The Black Line Special Edition is available in Starfire Pearl, Black Onyx, and Nori Green Pearl paint colors.

There are four trim levels in the 2022 GX lineup: GX 460 (base model), Premium, Black Line Special Edition, and Luxury. Pricing ranges from $57,275 to $66,710 including the destination charge.

As a family member of the Lexus luxury brand, the GX is naturally endowed with a generous amount of comfort and convenience features, but this isn’t the SUV of choice for breezy jaunts. With body-on-frame construction, like a true truck, GX is aimed at buyers whose driving often involves tackling rugged terrain, carrying a lot of weight, or towing up to 6,500 pounds. Or all three.

GX has 8.1 inches of ground clearance, standard full time all-wheel drive, an adjustable suspension system (Lexus’s Kinetic Dynamic Suspension) for better traction when the going gets tough, and other features not required for cruising through a mall parking lot.

The burly construction and a powerful V8 engine (301 horsepower, 329 pound-feet of torque) take their toll on fuel economy. GX’s EPA rating is 15 mpg city, 19 mpg highway, and 16 mpg combined. Premium fuel is required. Vehicles in this class aren’t known for outstanding conservation ability, but the GX is lower than others, in some cases up to several miles fewer per gallon.

Other than the engine’s roar at start-up, the GX cabin is quiet. It’s roomy, too. The ride can be ungainly around town and on the highway, depending on pavement level of disrepair. Again, the truck construction is made manifest here. The GX turning radius is surprisingly and pleasantly small.

The new enlarged multimedia display is nice, and the system in general is compatible with user satisfaction, provided the user works around the frustrating touchpad by using the alternate modes of control. The standard Lexus premium audio system puts out high- quality sound through its nine speakers. And there’s even a CD player.

2022 LEXUS GX BLACK LINE SPECIAL EDITION

Base price, including destination charge: $60,555

Price as driven: $62,180

Mary Lowry is a member of the Motor Press Guild and a member and past president of the Northwest Automotive Press Association. She lives in Snohomish County. Vehicles are provided by automotive manufacturers as a one-week loan for evaluation purposes only. Manufacturers do not control content of the reviews.