What engine does the GX 460 use?

The GX 460 uses a 4.6-liter V8 engine.

The GX 460, Lexus’ mid-size SUV introduced in 2010 to replace the GX 470, relies on a naturally aspirated 4.6-liter V8 that delivers a balance of smooth highway power and capable off-road performance. The engine is part of Toyota/Lexus’ 1UR-FE family and is typically paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time four-wheel-drive system, reflecting the vehicle’s emphasis on refinement and rugged capability.

Engine specifications

Here are the core specifications of the GX 460's engine:

• Displacement: 4.6 L (4,608 cc)


• Configuration: V8


• Engine family/code: 1UR-FE


• Power: approximately 301 hp (225 kW) @ around 5,500 rpm


• Torque: approximately 329 lb-ft (446 Nm) @ around 3,500 rpm


• Valvetrain: Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i)


• Induction: Naturally aspirated


• Fuel system: Sequential multi-port fuel injection (variations exist across model years)


• Transmission: 6-speed automatic


• Drivetrain: Full-time four-wheel drive (with transfer case on certain trims)

These specifications have supported the GX 460’s blend of on-road refinement and off-road capability, providing steady, confident acceleration and a broad torque band for hauling or climbing when needed.

Performance context

While the engine emphasizes smoothness and reliability, Lexus paired it with a robust suspension setup and transfer-case options to enhance off-road performance. Buyers typically appreciate the steady power delivery, low-end torque for towing, and the quiet operation that characterizes Lexus V8s in this class.

Summary: The GX 460’s engine is a 4.6-liter V8 from the 1UR-FE family, delivering about 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and a capable 4WD system. This combination underpins the model’s dual focus on everyday comfort and serious off-road capability.

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 Lexus GX 460 the same as a 4Runner?

No, the Lexus GX 460 and Toyota 4Runner are not the same; while they share a platform and body-on-frame construction, the GX is a luxury-oriented SUV with a V8 engine, standard third row, and more premium features, whereas the 4Runner is a more rugged, utilitarian, and less expensive option. The GX offers a smoother ride, quieter cabin, and more luxurious interior compared to the 4Runner.
 

Feature	Lexus GX 460	Toyota 4Runner
Engine	4.6L V8 (301 hp)	4.0L V6 (270 hp)
Drivetrain	Standard full-time four-wheel drive	Part-time four-wheel drive (standard on most trims)
Interior	More premium and luxurious with higher-grade materials, standard amenities like heated/ventilated front seats, and often a standard third row	More rugged and utilitarian design
Exterior	More refined styling with a signature spindle grille and chrome accents	More classic, rugged aesthetic with bold lines
Ride and Handling	Smoother and quieter ride, with more powerful and smooth V8 engine	More utilitarian feel, potentially a nimbler feel on narrower trails due to a narrower body

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Does the Lexus GX 550 have the same engine as the Tundra?

Yes, the 2025 Lexus GX 550 uses the same base twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6 engine as the Toyota Tundra, but the tuning and performance are adjusted for their different purposes. The engine in the Tundra is designed for heavy-duty truck use, while the GX 550 version is optimized for a smoother off-road performance, resulting in slightly different horsepower, torque, and other specifications. 
You can watch this video to learn about the engine similarities and differences between the Lexus GX 550 and the Toyota Tundra: 1mTRD JONYouTube · Oct 17, 2025
Engine similarities and differences

• Shared foundation: Both vehicles utilize the same twin-turbo V6 engine block, often referred to as the "i-FORCE" V6 in the Tundra. 
• Different tuning: The engine's calibration is adjusted for each vehicle. For example, the Tundra often has more power, while the GX 550 prioritizes smooth, off-road performance. 
• Performance variations: The performance output varies between the two. For instance, a non-hybrid Tundra has an i-FORCE V6 that produces 389 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, while the GX 550 produces 349 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. 
• Hybrid options: Both vehicles also offer a hybrid version of the same engine, called the i-FORCE MAX, though their specifications and fuel economy differ. 

This video explains the differences between the hybrid and non-hybrid powertrains: 54sNorth of the Wall GarageYouTube · Jul 7, 2025

What kind of engine is in the GX 460?

The Lexus GX460 is equipped with a 4.6-liter V8 engine that produces 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque. This robust, naturally aspirated engine is known for its durability and reliability over many years of service, though it is also a significant contributor to the vehicle's lower fuel economy, which is around 15 MPG on the highway. The 2024 and later models have been replaced by a twin-turbo V6 engine in the new generation of the GX.
 
You can watch this video for an overview of the Lexus GX460 engine and drivetrain: 1mBern on CarsYouTube · Aug 23, 2025
Engine specifications

• Engine size: 4.6-liter
• Configuration: V8
• Horsepower: 301 hp
• Torque: 329 lb-ft
• Fuel type: Premium fuel is recommended for maximum performance. 

Engine characteristics

• Reliability: The 4.6L V8 (1UR-FE) is known for being reliable and long-lasting, with some models reaching over 200,000 miles.
• Durability: Its durable, naturally aspirated design lacks some complex modern technologies like cylinder deactivation, which contributes to its dependability.
• Maintenance: Regular oil changes and annual radiator cleaning are crucial to prevent overheating, which can lead to head gasket failure.
• Fuel economy: The V8 is a gas guzzler, with an average city/highway mileage of around 11/15 MPG, though some users report higher highway MPG. 

This video discusses the reliability and maintenance of the 4.6L V8 engine: 54sThe Long Last ExpertYouTube · Nov 7, 2024
Transition to new engine

• The 2024 and later Lexus GX models have moved to a new generation and have been equipped with a new engine. The 2024 model uses a 3.4L twin-turbo V6 engine that produces 349 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. 

This video explains why the new generation of GX has a new engine: 55sShooting CarsYouTube · Jun 18, 2025