What is the payload of GX 460?

The payload is the maximum weight of passengers and cargo the GX 460 can safely carry, and it typically falls around 1,000–1,200 pounds depending on year and equipment.

In this article, we explain what payload means, how it is calculated, and what GX 460 owners can expect across model years. The payload rating is determined by subtracting the vehicle’s curb weight from its gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). Because trim levels, optional equipment, and regional specifications vary, the exact payload can shift by several hundred pounds. Always verify with your vehicle’s door jamb placard or VIN documentation.

How payload is defined for the GX 460

Payload measures how much extra weight you can add for occupants and cargo beyond the vehicle’s own weight. It does not include trailers or towing equipment; that is handled separately by the vehicle’s towing capacity. The calculation is straightforward: payload = GVWR − curb weight.

Typical GX 460 payload range

These figures reflect common ranges across the GX 460’s production span. Exact values depend on model year, drivetrain, trim and options.

• GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating): about 6,000 pounds (2,722 kilograms) for most GX 460 configurations


• Curb weight: typically between 4,800 and 5,100 pounds (2,177–2,313 kilograms)


• Payload: roughly 1,000–1,200 pounds (450–545 kilograms) for most models


• Edge cases: some lighter configurations or early units may approach about 1,250 pounds (≈570 kilograms)

Note: Always check the exact payload for your vehicle using the door jamb sticker or VIN-based documentation, since payload can vary by market and options.

Tips for safe loading and weight distribution

Distribute weight evenly, keep heavy items low and toward the center of the vehicle, and stay within the GVWR to preserve handling, braking and safety. Do not stack loads above the roof rails unless explicitly rated, and verify tire load ratings to ensure you can safely handle the loaded mass.

Summary

The GX 460’s payload is typically around 1,000–1,200 pounds, reflecting the balance between its GVWR and curb weight across model years. Because payload varies with trim and options, owners should verify the precise figure for their vehicle via the door jamb placard or VIN data and plan loads accordingly to maintain safe handling and performance.

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. 

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. 

Can a Lexus GX 460 pull a boat?

The Lexus GX 460 can tow 6,500 pounds when equipped properly.

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