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How many miles per gallon does a 2017 Lexus GX460 get?

The 2017 Lexus GX460 gets about 15 miles per gallon in the city, 19 mpg on the highway, and roughly 17 mpg combined.


Powered by a 4.6-liter V8 and offered with all-wheel drive, the GX460 blends luxury and off-road capability, but it isn’t a fuel-sipper. Official EPA estimates serve as a baseline, while real-world mileage can vary with conditions and configuration.


EPA fuel economy ratings


The EPA publishes separate figures for city, highway and combined mileage. For the 2017 GX460, the agency's estimates are typically cited as:



  • City: 15 mpg

  • Highway: 19 mpg

  • Combined: 17 mpg


These ratings apply to the common all-wheel-drive configuration used in most GX460 models and provide a baseline for comparisons with other SUVs in the class.


Drivetrain and mpg notes


Because the GX460 is a heavy, V8-powered SUV, drivetrain choice and tire setup can influence real-world mpg. Official numbers are a starting point rather than a guarantee for every trip.


Real-world performance and factors that affect mpg


In everyday driving, fuel economy for the GX460 can swing depending on how and where you drive. Factors include:



  • Driving style (aggressive acceleration lowers mpg)

  • Terrain and load (hills, luggage, and payload reduce mpg)

  • Drivetrain configuration (AWD vs. 2WD variants; tires can impact rolling resistance)

  • Maintenance (air filters, spark plugs, engine tune) and tire condition

  • Weather and air conditioning use


Owners often report real-world numbers closer to the EPA combined figure when cruising on highways with moderate speed and light load, but much lower when towing or navigating city traffic.


Tips to maximize fuel economy in the GX460


While the GX460 isn't designed for maximum economy, a few practices can help you stretch miles per gallon without sacrificing performance:



  • Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure and align wheels as needed

  • Reduce weight by removing unnecessary cargo

  • Drive smoothly: steady cruise, gradual acceleration, and early braking

  • Follow routine maintenance: scheduled tune-ups and clean air filters

  • Plan routes to minimize stop-and-go driving when possible


Even with these steps, expect mpg to hover in the mid-teens, especially in city conditions or with heavy loads.


Summary


The 2017 Lexus GX460 pairs power and capability with modest fuel economy. EPA estimates place it at about 15 mpg city, 19 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined, with real-world results varying by driving conditions and configuration. For buyers prioritizing luxury and off-road readiness, the mpg figure is a trade-off that comes with its class-leading strengths.

What years to avoid 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. 



Is the 2017 Lexus GX 460 reliable?


The 2017 Lexus GX 460 is considered very reliable, with high ratings from both owners and experts. Its reputation is built on a proven and simple V8 engine, body-on-frame construction, and a history of longevity, with many examples reaching 200,000-300,000 miles. While its overall reliability is high, potential issues can arise from maintaining the vehicle properly, especially regarding transmission fluid changes and possible leaks.
 
Strengths

  • Proven powertrain: The naturally aspirated 4.6-liter V8 engine is known for its durability and longevity, with a timing chain that reduces maintenance needs. 
  • High ratings: It has a high reliability rating of 4.7 out of 5 from sources like Cars.com. 
  • Longevity: Many owners report their GX 460s running well with 200,000 to 300,000 miles on the odometer. 
  • Simple design: The lack of excessive technology contributes to its reliability, as it has fewer complex electronic components to fail. 

Potential issues to be aware of
  • Maintenance is crucial: Regular and timely maintenance, especially transmission fluid changes, is necessary to prevent problems like transmission slipping. 
  • Leaks: Some models may experience minor oil or coolant leaks, often related to the engine's valley plate or timing chain cover. 
  • Car wash vulnerability: A specific issue has been reported where water can enter the cabin through a clogged sunroof drain and damage the ECU/MCU, especially in certain car wash environments. This is not widely acknowledged by the manufacturer, but users advise caution. 

Overall
The 2017 Lexus GX 460 is a solid choice for those prioritizing a dependable and long-lasting luxury SUV. While it has a few potential vulnerabilities, they are generally manageable with proper maintenance and avoiding certain car wash practices.



How many miles per gallon does a 2017 GX 460 get?


The 2017 Lexus GX 460 has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 15 MPG in the city, 18 MPG on the highway, and a combined 16 MPG. These figures apply to all 2017 GX 460 models, including the base and Luxury trims.
 

  • City: 15 MPG
  • Highway: 18 MPG
  • Combined: 16 MPG



Is the Lexus GX 460 fuel efficient?


A GX 460 model provides a 15/19/16 MPG city/hwy/combined4.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.