What is the ground clearance of the 2014 Lexus GX 460?
The 2014 Lexus GX 460 has a ground clearance of 8.0 inches (20.3 cm).
This figure comes from Lexus official specifications and is a key metric for evaluating the SUV's off-road readiness. In practice, clearance can vary slightly with tire size, suspension wear, and cargo load.
Official specifications
The figures below reflect what Lexus and major automotive references report for the GX 460's ground clearance.
- Lexus official specifications: ground clearance of 8.0 inches (203 mm).
- Common automotive references (e.g., Car and Driver, Edmunds, MotorTrend) typically cite 8.0 inches as well.
Overall, the published measurements align on 8.0 inches (20.3 cm).
Practical implications for driving
Understanding how 8.0 inches translates to real-world driving helps consumers gauge where and how the GX 460 can perform off pavement.
- Moderate off-road capability: 8.0 inches provides clearance for dirt tracks, rocks, and uneven gravel without scraping the underbody in typical trail conditions.
- Limitations: steep ledges, deep ruts, or large rocks may still require careful line selection and potentially wheel articulation to avoid contact.
- Tire and load effects: tire size and payload can shift actual clearance slightly; larger tires raise the effective height, while heavy loads compress suspension.
In real-world terms, 8.0 inches is a solid baseline for light-to-moderate off-road use while keeping everyday ride quality in mind.
Notes on measurements and what can affect clearance
Tire size and suspension
With the GX 460, standard equipment uses 265/60R18 tires on 18-inch wheels. Upsizing tires or changing suspension geometry can alter ground clearance by a noticeable margin, typically within a few tenths to over half an inch depending on the setup.
Cargo, roof racks, and vehicle load
Heavy loads or roof-mounted equipment can compress the suspension and reduce ground clearance slightly when the vehicle is fully loaded or carrying roof gear.
Summary
The ground clearance of the 2014 Lexus GX 460 is officially listed at 8.0 inches (20.3 cm). This figure is consistent across major automotive references and conveys the model's capability for light off-road use, with practical variations based on tires, suspension wear, and load.
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.
What is the ground clearance of the GX 460?
The Lexus GX460 has a stock ground clearance of 8.1 inches. This is sufficient for many off-road situations, but the large side steps can be a limiting factor. Modifications, such as larger tires or a suspension lift, can be made to increase ground clearance.
This video explains what ground clearance means and what to measure for Lexus GX460: 53sGX460 OFF-ROADYouTube · May 14, 2025
- Stock Ground Clearance: 8.1 inches
- Off-road capability: While the 8.1 inches of clearance is decent, the large side steps are a common limiting factor for off-roading and are often removed in off-road builds.
- Modifications: It is possible to increase the ground clearance with aftermarket parts like a suspension lift or larger all-terrain tires.
Which is bigger, Lexus GX or Toyota 4Runner?
How big is the Lexus GX 550 compared to the Toyota 4Runner? The Lexus GX 550 is undoubtedly the larger vehicle compared to the Toyota 4Runner, boasting a 197-inch length vs. the 194.9-inch length of the Toyota SUV and offering additional width and height across trim levels.
How many miles will a 2014 Lexus GX 460 last?
Diagram: Lexus Longevity by Model Type
| Lexus Model | Estimated Longevity |
|---|---|
| LS 430 / LS 460 | 300,000+ miles |
| GX 460 | 300,000+ miles |
| LX 570 | 300,000+ miles |
| ES 350 | 250,000–300,000 miles |
