What engine is in the GX470?

The GX470 is powered by a 4.7-liter V8 engine known as the 2UZ-FE. This engine is shared with the LX470 and other large Toyota/Lexus SUVs of its era.

This article explains what the GX470’s engine is, where it fits in Toyota/Lexus engineering, and what buyers and owners should know about it.

Engine family and configuration

The GX470’s power plant belongs to Toyota’s UZ family of large-displacement V8s. Specifically, it uses the 2UZ-FE, a 4.7-liter, 32-valve V8 that employs dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) on both the intake and exhaust cams.

Technical specifications

To give a concise snapshot, here are the engine’s key specifications:

• Engine code: 2UZ-FE


• Displacement: 4.7 liters (4,663 cc)


• Configuration: V8, 90-degree angle, 32-valve DOHC


• Valvetrain: Dual VVT-i on both intake and exhaust cams


• Fuel system: Sequential multi-point fuel injection (EFI)

These specifications define the GX470’s engine characteristics, including its broad torque delivery and smooth power for a midsize luxury SUV.

Applications and context

The 2UZ-FE engine is widely associated with Toyota’s large SUVs from the same generation, most notably the GX470 and LX470. This engine helped deliver the GX470’s blend of towing capability, on-road refinement, and off-road readiness that the model line aimed to offer during its production years.

Summary

In short, the GX470 uses a 4.7-liter V8 engine, the 2UZ-FE, a member of Toyota’s UZ family with dual VVT-i and 32 valves. This setup was a defining powerplant for the GX470 and related SUV models of its era.

What is the difference between GX 460 and 470?

The main differences are that the GX 460 is a more modern vehicle with a 4.6L V8 engine (with a timing chain), 6-speed transmission, and standard KDSS (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System), while the GX 470 is older with a 4.7L V8 (with a timing belt), 5-speed transmission, and an optional KDSS on some trims. The GX 460 also has improved fuel efficiency, more horsepower, and newer features like standard rear A/C and a pop-out rear window. The GX 470, however, is often praised for its more plush interior and, for off-road enthusiasts, simpler modification process without KDSS. 
Engine and performance

• GX 460:
  • 4.6L4.6 cap L4.6𝐿 V8 with 301301301 hp, 6-speed automatic transmission, and a timing chain. 
  • Generally more fuel-efficient. 
• GX 470:
  • 4.7L4.7 cap L4.7𝐿 V8 with 263263263 hp, 5-speed automatic transmission, and a timing belt. 
  • While less powerful, some feel its torque is more noticeable. 

Features and technology

• GX 460:
  • Standard KDSS (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System) for better handling.
  • Crawl control is available on some models.
  • Features like rear air conditioning, cooled front seats, and a pop-out rear tailgate window are more common.
• GX 470:
  • KDSS was an optional feature, primarily on the Sport trim.
  • Does not have crawl control.
  • Rear air conditioning is available, but not standard on all models. 

Off-road and modification

• GX 460:
  • KDSS can make off-road suspension modifications more complex. 
• GX 470:
  • Models without KDSS are generally easier to modify for off-road use. 
  • It has a slightly better turning radius. 

Reliability and maintenance

• GX 460:
  • Has a timing chain, which requires less maintenance than a timing belt.
  • The aluminum engine block is lighter but more susceptible to damage from overheating.
• GX 470:
  • The timing belt requires replacement every 100,000100 comma 000100,000 miles or 101010 years.
  • The cast-iron engine block is heavier but generally very durable. 

What year to avoid Lexus GX470?

The 2003 Lexus GX470 is often cited as the worst model year due to drivetrain issues like clunking noises, and the 2006 model also received a high number of complaints, particularly for drivetrain problems. Other years to be cautious about include models with the optional KDSS system for off-road enthusiasts due to potential costs, and early models (2004 and 2005) for dashboard cracks, dry-rotted wheels, and less engine power compared to later models. 
You can watch this video to learn about common problems to look for when buying a Lexus GX470: 52sRob DrivesYouTube · Feb 11, 2021
Specific model years to be cautious about

• 2003 Lexus GX470: Considered the worst model year by some sources due to specific drivetrain issues, such as clunking and squealing noises, and higher repair costs. 
• 2006 Lexus GX470: Received a high number of owner complaints, particularly regarding drivetrain problems. 
• Models with KDSS: If you plan to heavily modify the vehicle for off-roading, models with the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) may be best to avoid due to potential complexity and cost of repairs or modifications. 

Common issues across the GX470 lifespan

• Drivetrain issues: Reports of clunking and squealing noises have been associated with certain model years. 
• Dashboard cracks: A common and potentially expensive issue across many model years, especially in warmer climates. 
• Timing belt and water pump: A crucial maintenance item. The timing belt should be replaced around every 90,000 miles, or the vehicle should have a documented history of this replacement. 
• Navigation system: The built-in navigation system is outdated and can be difficult to upgrade or repair. Many owners recommend using a smartphone for navigation instead. 
• Suspension and transmission: During a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the suspension and check for smooth transmission shifts, as these can indicate wear. 

This video discusses the maintenance of a Lexus GX470, including the timing belt replacement: 58sCar WizardYouTube · Feb 22, 2022

What engine is in a 2008 Lexus GX470?

4.7-liter V8 engine
The GX 470's 4.7-liter V8 engine is the only engine option. It makes 263 horsepower and is assisted by variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i) and a five-speed automatic transmission.

Is the Lexus GX470 a Land Cruiser?

No, the Lexus GX 470 is not a Land Cruiser, but it is based on the smaller Toyota Land Cruiser Prado platform, which is a "baby Land Cruiser" model. The GX 470 is essentially a luxury version of the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, adapted for the North American market with a V8 engine and premium features.
 
This video explains the relationship between the Lexus GX 470 and the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado: 44s4x4 RidesYouTube · May 20, 2023

• Platform and DNA: The GX 470 shares its body-on-frame platform (the J120 chassis) with the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. 
• Positioning: It was created to be a more luxurious, yet still capable, SUV positioned between the smaller Lexus RX and the larger LX (which is a badge-engineered full-size Land Cruiser). 
• Engine and drivetrain: In North America, the GX 470 came exclusively with the 4.7-liter V8 engine, and its full-time 4WD system was similar to the Land Cruiser's, though it differed from the standard Toyota 4Runner which had more engine and drivetrain options. 
• Off-road capability: Despite its luxury trappings, the GX 470 is very capable off-road, thanks to its robust platform and features like a locking center differential, low-range gearing, and available Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS). 

You can watch this video to learn more about the off-road capabilities of the Lexus GX470: 56s4x4 RidesYouTube · Aug 4, 2023