What is the ground clearance of a GX470?
The ground clearance of the GX470 is generally about 8.3 inches (roughly 210 millimeters) in stock form, though the exact figure can vary slightly by year, tire size, and suspension setup. This places the GX470 in the low-to-mid range for mid-size luxury SUVs and is a key factor for both daily driving and light off-road use.
Context and what the figure means
The GX470, produced from 2003 through 2009, is Lexus’ midsize SUV built on a Toyota platform that shares lineage with the Land Cruiser Prado. Ground clearance measures the distance from the road to the lowest point of the vehicle’s underbody, not the overall height to the roof. A higher clearance helps with rocky terrain and steep entries, while too much height can affect approach angles and handling on paved roads.
Stock clearance and how it can vary
Manufacturers publish a single figure for stock suspension and tire setup, but real-world measurements can differ slightly year to year and with different tire sizes. The GX470’s ground clearance generally sits in the 8.0 to 8.5 inch range in standard configuration.
Factors that can affect the measured ground clearance include the following:
- Year and model-year variations in the suspension geometry and bumper design.
- Tire size and wheel diameter, which alter overall vehicle height from ground.
- Vehicle load and dynamic suspension sag when carrying passengers or cargo.
- Aftermarket modifications such as lift kits, heavier-duty springs, or underbody skid plates.
Bottom line: if you rely on the GX470 for light off-roading or need ample driveway clearance, expect about 8.0–8.5 inches of ground clearance in stock form, with potential minor changes based on the factors above.
How to verify the clearance on your specific GX470
To obtain an accurate figure for your exact vehicle, measure with the car on level ground and the tires inflated to the recommended pressure. Use a straight edge or ruler to measure from the ground to the lowest underbody point—commonly around the front/center of the chassis or transmission tunnel—and note measurements at multiple points to account for any asymmetry or bumper protrusions.
Summary
The GX470 typically offers roughly 8.3 inches of ground clearance, with a practical range of about 8.0 to 8.5 inches depending on year, tires, and load. For precise data on a specific vehicle, consult the manufacturer’s specifications for that model year and verify with a direct on-vehicle measurement.
