How many miles per gallon does a Lexus GX 470 get?
Most GX 470 models are EPA-rated at about 15 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway, with a combined rating near 17 mpg.
The GX 470, produced from 2003 through 2009, uses a 4.7-liter V8 and was replaced by the GX 460 in 2010. While its fuel economy is modest for a large SUV, the official figures provide a baseline for buyers and owners. Real-world mpg varies by year, drivetrain configuration, load, terrain, and driving behavior, so expect a range rather than a single number in everyday use.
EPA estimates for the GX 470
Official fuel economy numbers offer a baseline for what most 2003–2009 GX 470 models deliver in standard configurations. The figures below reflect typical EPA ratings observed across this model run.
- City: about 15 miles per gallon
- Highway: about 19 miles per gallon
- Combined: around 17 miles per gallon
Note: While 15/19 with ~17 combined is the common baseline, slight variations can occur by year, drivetrain, and testing cycle. The numbers above represent the fraternity of GX 470 configurations most buyers encounter on the used-market.
Year-by-year baseline numbers (2003–2009)
Across the GX 470 production years, the EPA figures remained close to the 15/19/17 benchmark for most configurations. Some minor deviations can occur due to drivetrain (4WD vs. 2WD), tire choice, and testing conditions, but the overall range stayed within a small margin of the stated values.
Real-world factors and how to optimize mpg
In actual driving, many variables influence fuel economy. The following factors commonly move mpg up or down for the GX 470.
- Driving style: Smooth acceleration, gradual braking, and steady speeds help maximize efficiency.
- Vehicle maintenance: Regular tuning, clean air filters, fresh spark plugs, and properly functioning sensors support better MPG.
- Load and roof accessories: Extra weight and roof racks or spoilers increase drag and reduce efficiency.
- Tire condition and pressure: Underinflated tires or low-rolling-resistance tires in poor condition affect economy.
- Terrain and climate: Hills, cold weather, and longer idling times lower mpg; flat highway cruising tends to yield better results.
Practical takeaway: Expect typical driving to land in the mid-teens to low-20s on highway trips with calm driving, but most daily use will hover around the 17 mpg combined mark. Real-world results will vary by year, configuration, and how the vehicle is maintained and driven.
Summary
The Lexus GX 470 generally delivers about 15 mpg in city driving, 19 mpg on highways, and roughly 17 mpg combined for most 2003–2009 models. Real-world mileage varies with year, drivetrain, load, and driving habits. If you’re shopping used, factor in potential wear and load conditions, and consider that the GX 470 was followed by the GX 460 in 2010, which uses a different powertrain and may yield slightly different efficiency numbers.
