Does the Lexus GX 460 have air suspension?
No. The Lexus GX 460 does not use air suspension.
Instead, it relies on a traditional coil-spring suspension with an independent front and rear layout, and offers KDSS (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System) on many trims to improve stability and reduce body roll. Air springs are not part of the GX 460’s setup.
Suspension layout and features
Key components shaping the ride and off-road capability of the GX 460 include the following:
- Front suspension: independent double-wishbone with coil springs (and a stabilizer bar).
- Rear suspension: independent multi-link with coil springs.
- KDSS: Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, a hydraulic mechanism that can stiffen the stabilizers to reduce body roll under cornering.
- Air suspension: not offered on this model; ride height and damping are managed with the coil-spring setup and dampers.
In short, the GX 460 uses a conventional coil-sprung setup with an available KDSS system, not air suspension.
KDSS explained
Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System links the front and rear stabilizers hydraulically to reduce body lean at speed and improve off-road capability. It is a mechanical/hydraulic system, not an air-spring solution, and it does not provide adjustable ride height.
Air suspension in the Lexus lineup (context)
Air suspension is not a feature of the GX 460. Some other Lexus models, particularly higher-end or newer generations, have used air suspension or different active suspension systems to adjust ride height and damping. If you specifically want air-ride capabilities, you would typically look to those other models or the newer GX generations that have updated suspension architectures.
As always, verify the exact specs for a given model year and market, since equipment can vary by trim and region.
Summary
Bottom line: The GX 460 does not come with air suspension. It relies on a coil-spring, independent suspension with optional KDSS to improve stability, while air springs remain unavailable on this model. For air-ride capability, shoppers should consider other Lexus models or newer generations with different suspension setups.
Which Lexus models have air suspension?
Lexus models that have featured air suspension include the LS sedan, the RX crossover, the LX large SUV, and the GX SUV. While the LS has a full four-corner system, the GX 460's air suspension is typically located on the rear axle only and is available on certain trims. The RX is also available with an air suspension system on some configurations, like the F Sport model.
Full air suspension (four corners)
- Lexus LS: This model has offered a more complex system that includes air suspension on all four wheels, with features like height adjustment and "Access Mode" for easier entry and exit.
- Lexus LX: The LX 700h comes standard with an adaptive air suspension with height control.
Rear air suspension only
- Lexus GX: The GX 460 has available rear air suspension (Active Height Control) on premium and luxury trims, which replaces the coil springs with airbags on the rear axle.
Other models with air suspension options
- Lexus RX: Some configurations, including certain F Sport models, offer air suspension.
- Previous models: Some previous models like the GS sedan (GS300/350/430/450h/460) and IS sedan (IS250/350) had air suspension options available.
What is the difference between GX 460 premium and luxury?
The main differences are that the Luxury trim builds on the Premium trim by adding more premium features like an auto-leveling adaptive air suspension, a Mark Levinson audio system, upgraded leather upholstery, and a power-folding third-row seat. The Luxury trim also includes the features found in the Premium Plus package, such as a heated and ventilated front seat, and offers an optional off-road package with a surround-view camera and crawl control.
You can watch this video to see a side-by-side comparison of the Lexus GX 460 Luxury and Premium trims: 1mKenny VacekYouTube · May 10, 2020
Lexus GX 460 Premium
Heated and ventilated front seats, Heated second-row seats, Tri-zone automatic climate control, Power-folding second and third-row seats (in some packages), and Rain-sensing wipers.
Lexus GX 460 Luxury
- Includes all Premium features, plus:
- 19-inch wheels
- Auto-leveling adaptive air suspension
- 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system
- Upgraded semi-aniline or premium leather upholstery
- Heated wood- and leather-trimmed steering wheel
- Power-folding third-row seats
- Surround-view camera system with multi-terrain monitor: (optional)
- Crawl control and off-road drive modes: (optional)
Key takeaways
- Both trims have the same engine, horsepower, and towing capacity.
- The Luxury trim is the higher-tier option, offering a more premium and comfortable experience, especially with the air suspension and advanced sound system.
- The Premium trim is a great value, and some users prefer the NuLuxe interior over genuine leather.
- If off-road capability is a priority, the Luxury trim is the better starting point, as it can be optioned with the off-road package that is not available on the Premium trim.
This video explains the features and benefits of the Lexus GX 460 Luxury trim, including its off-road capabilities: 1mBuild Your OwnYouTube · Sep 7, 2023
What year to avoid Lexus GX 460?
The main Lexus GX 460 years to avoid are 2010–2013 due to potential issues like engine oil leaks (valley plate leak), as well as the 2010 model specifically, which had a temporary sales suspension after a rollover risk was identified during sharp turns. Later models, especially 2016 and 2017, may be more prone to oil leaks as well, though not as critically as the earlier years.
Years to be cautious about
- 2010–2013: These early models are more frequently cited for potential problems, such as the valley plate coolant leak, which can be expensive to repair.
- 2016 and 2017: These years have been noted by some owners as having a higher likelihood of oil leaks.
Model years generally considered more reliable
- 2014 and later: These models reportedly have a different, less leak-prone head gasket.
- 2021 and 2022: These years are specifically highlighted as being very reliable.
Other potential issues to consider with any model year
- Secondary Air Injection System: Problems with this system can be costly to repair.
- Suspension: Models with the optional AHC (Adjustable Height Control) or KDSS (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System) can experience issues, though Lexus has issued a TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) to address a leaning issue in some earlier KDSS vehicles.
- Rust: In areas where roads are salted, rust can be a concern, especially on models driven in the North.
- Maintenance: Regular and consistent fluid changes, especially transmission fluid, are crucial to the longevity of the vehicle.
Does the Lexus GX have adjustable suspension?
Increased levels of optimized. Control for those who like to rough it without roughing adaptive variable suspension available with the Lexus GX wildly refined.
