How much weight can a Lexus GX hold?

The payload capacity of a Lexus GX is typically about 1,000 to 1,200 pounds (passengers plus cargo), though the exact figure depends on the model year, trim, and equipment. This payload limit is set by the vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and its curb weight.

Understanding what this means helps you load the vehicle safely. Payload is not the same as towing capacity; it is the internal weight you can add to the vehicle without exceeding its maximum allowed weight. The GX’s GVWR is generally around 6,000 pounds, and heavier options or seating configurations can reduce the available payload.

Understanding payload and capacity

Payload represents the combined weight of people, cargo, and any accessories added to the GX beyond its curb weight. To estimate payload, subtract the curb weight (the weight of the vehicle with fluids and a standard load) from the GVWR (the maximum permissible weight when fully loaded).

Note that towing capacity is a separate specification. It indicates how much weight the vehicle can pull behind it, not how much it can carry inside.

Payload capacity by configuration

Below are general ranges you might encounter across common GX configurations. The figures are approximate and can vary by year, trim, and optional equipment.

• Baseline GX 460 configurations with standard equipment: about 1,000–1,150 pounds of payload


• GX models with additional options or seating configurations (e.g., extra passengers, premium packages): about 800–1,000 pounds


• Heavy equipment packages or towing-focused setups: roughly 900–1,100 pounds

In practice, most everyday loading scenarios—two to four passengers with luggage and groceries—fit within this payload range, but always verify the exact GVWR and curb weight for your specific vehicle.

How to calculate payload yourself

To determine the exact payload for your GX, subtract the curb weight from the GVWR. For example, if the GVWR is 6,000 pounds and the curb weight is 5,000 pounds, the payload is 1,000 pounds. You can find the GVWR and curb weight on the vehicle’s door jamb sticker, in the owner’s manual, or on Lexus’ official specifications for your model year.

Tips for safe loading

Distribute weight evenly, avoid stacking heavy items high, and don’t exceed the posted payload limit. Keep heavier cargo as low and centered as possible to maintain handling and braking performance, especially when cornering or driving on uneven terrain.

Summary

In summary, a Lexus GX can typically carry about 1,000 to 1,200 pounds of payload, depending on year, trim, and equipment. Always check your specific GVWR and curb weight to determine the exact payload for your vehicle, and remember that payload is separate from towing capacity. Safe loading practices help protect passengers and preserve the GX’s performance and handling.

How much weight can a Lexus GX 460 hold?

The payload capacity for a Lexus GX 460 is approximately 1,411 to 1,470 lbs, depending on the specific year and trim. This weight includes passengers, cargo, and the tongue weight of any trailer being towed. It's crucial to account for all these factors, as the payload capacity is a hard limit for the vehicle's total weight in addition to the vehicle itself.
 

• Maximum Payload: Around 1,411–1,470 lbs. 
• What it includes: Passengers, all cargo in the vehicle, and the tongue weight of a trailer. 
• Impact of towing: The payload is significantly reduced when towing because the tongue weight of the trailer counts against the payload capacity. For example, a trailer with a 6,500 lb towing capacity will have a tongue weight that subtracts from your available payload. 
• Total weight limit: The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) for the GX 460 is 6,600 lbs. This is the total maximum weight the vehicle can be, including its own curb weight, passengers, and cargo. You must ensure the vehicle's combined weight does not exceed this limit. 

What is the cargo capacity of the GX 460?

The Lexus GX 460 has 11.6 cubic feet of cargo space with all three rows in use, 46.7 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 64.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down. Key features include a side-hinged cargo door with a flip-up glass section for quick access. 
This video provides an overview of the GX 460's cargo space and features: 48sPerformance LexusYouTube · Sep 12, 2023

• Behind the third row: 11.611.611.6 cubic feet of space. 
• Behind the second row: 46.746.746.7 cubic feet of space after folding the third row. 
• Maximum cargo space: 64.764.764.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded flat. 

This video demonstrates how to fold the seats in the Lexus GX 460 to maximize cargo space: 59sBern on CarsYouTube · Aug 23, 2025
Key features

• Rear cargo door: The GX 460 has a side-hinged "barn door" instead of a traditional liftgate. 
• Flip-up glass: A flip-up glass section on the rear door allows for quick and easy loading of smaller items without opening the entire door. 
• Third-row configuration: The third row is a 50/50 split and can be folded flat for more cargo room. 
• Second-row configuration: The second row is a 40/20/40 split and can also be folded down to expand the cargo area. 

This video shows how to use the rear cargo door with the flip-up glass on the GX 460: 52sLexusYouTube · May 29, 2020

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. 

How much weight can a Lexus hold?

The Lexus RX 350 towing capacity across all trim levels is 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.