Why Did Consumer Reports Give the 2010 Lexus GX a ‘Don’t Buy’ Label?
If you’re looking for a used three-row luxury SUV, then the 2010 Lexus GX 460 is a great choice. When it was new, critics praised the GX 460 for its tremendous off-road capabilities that mixed well with its luxurious interior and style. The 2010 GX 460 did well as a seven-seat SUV, so why did Consumer Reports give it the “Don’t Buy” label back then?
The 2010 Lexus GX 460 featured a ruggedly opulent architecture
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The Lexus GX 460 was redesigned for the 2010 model year and came with a lot of upgrades over the outgoing model. At that point, the GX 460 had undergone some restyling and was powered by the same 4.6-liter V8 engine found in the LS, although it was slightly detuned. However, with 301 hp and 329 lb-ft of torque, the trusty GX 460 had plenty of power to go off-road and tow up to 6,500 pounds.
In addition to a powerful engine, the 2010 GX 460 also includes a Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS). This system adjusts the roll resistance that’s provided by the stabilizer bars and reduces the maximum roll angle by as much as 50%, according to Lexus. The KDSS is meant to enhance the Suv’s on-road handling response and off-road capability.
The 2010 GX 460 was considered a safety risk

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Despite the 2010 Lexus GX 460’s capability and off-road prowess, Consumer Reports found an Achilles Heel during their testing procedures. In early 2010, Consumer Reports sent out a statement saying that it deemed the Lexus GX 460 a “safety risk” as they found that it didn’t handle as well when it was pushed to the limit.
During the handling part of the testing, the GX 460’s rear end slid out and the vehicle almost turned sideways before the electronic stability control kicked in and was able to control the slide. Although CR said that it wasn’t aware of any reports from any GX 460 owners of the issue, it still showed concern and urged prospective buyers not to purchase the vehicle until a fix was in place.
Apparently, the main issue had to do with the SUVs’ electronic stability control system and not the KDSS. Lexus responded quickly to the issue and notified its dealers as well.
Lexus issued a recall
Lexus quickly issued a voluntary safety recall on the GX 460’s ESC issue, which affected approximately 9,400 units worldwide. The fix seemed easy enough: update the software, which would result in the ESC intervening quicker. Fortunately, there were no other issues reported thereafter.
Fast forward to today and you can now purchase a 2010 Lexus GX 460 on the used market for under $20,000. Considering you’ll get a body-on-frame, three-row SUV that can accommodate up to seven passengers in luxurious comfort, we would say that’s a steal.
However, thanks to this brief history lesson, it’s important to note that If you are planning to purchase a 2010 GX 460, then make sure that this specific recall was taken care of. After all, you never know what can happen while driving on the street and safety is of the utmost importance.
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