The 2009 Lexus GX 470 remains much the same as the 2008. It is a luxury midsize SUV seating up to eight passengers, but likely no more than six adults in comfort. The GX entered the market in the 2003 model year and is first cousin to the Toyota 4Runner. Foreign market competitors include the Acura MDX, Infiniti QX56, Land Rover LR3, Saab 9-7X, Volvo XC90, BMW X3 and X5, Mercedes-Benz M-Class and Porsche Cayenne. Domestic competition is the Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator and Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Towing weight (at 6,500 pounds), cargo space and a 48 month or 50,000 mile warranty are all better than average for the class with the GX 470. The interior finish is also very nice. Retail price, fuel economy and passenger room could all use improvement.

The only GX engine is a 263 horsepower dual overhead cam 4.7 liter V8 matched with a five-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is a somewhat sad 14 miles per gallon city and 18 miles per gallon on the highway. The GX is full time all-wheel drive and has decent off road ability.

NHTSA ratings are not available for this vehicle. Safety features include antilock brakes, automatic load leveling, electronic brake assistance, locking/limited slip differential, traction control, vehicle stability control, airbags everywhere, tire pressure monitor, theft deterrent system and a first aid kit. There is also an optional electronic parking aid.

The GX comes in only one trim, that's the Sport Utility. Standard features include running boards, height adjustable suspension, interior air filter, power tilt/telescopic wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather seats, heated front bucket seats, ten-way power driver seat with lumbar adjustment, six-way power front passenger seat, driver seat/mirror/steering wheel memory, wood interior trim, heated power mirrors, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, six-disc CD/MP3 changer, trip computer, altimeter, barometer, rain-sensing windshield wipers, universal garage door opener and automatic headlights. Optionally you can get a navigation package, a DVD system, satellite radio, Lexus Link Assistance System (think OnStar), a rear spoiler and a tow-hitch receiver.

Lexus generally makes a very nice vehicle and the 2009 Lexus GX 470 is no exception. It's a pretty automobile and has all the things you would expect in a luxury SUV, and a few you wouldn't. Still, with a base of $47,615 it is pricey, and with limited passenger room and high fuel consumption, unless you just want a Lexus SUV, there are probably better deals out there.