jepva

Sport mode on the transmission - NOT suspension. I have a base GX so don't even have the leveling suspension. Maybe it's a new feature on the 2014 - but if you slap the gearshift over to "S" mode - this changes throttle mapping and also tells the transmission to hold gears. It will keep you in the 3000-4000rpm range. I have used this towing around town, but not sure if this would work on the highway well or not.

looknow12

We are now at around 4500 miles and I have noticed an improvement. It could just be the engine is beginning to break in.

I can remain in 5th for longer periods of time on the highway with no shifting.

Getting closer to 10.5 mpg now.

closenough

I have searched high and low for an explanation of what "S Mode" is on the transmission, and I can't find any Lexus documentation that indicates that S mode modifies the throttle mapping. Can you point to something from Lexus that states that?

The OM only states that the S mode puts a ceiling on what gear the automatic transmission can select from, but that any gear under that level is selectable. This can help keep the trans from hunting and can aid with engine braking.

There are many who believe that the "S" in S mode stands for Sequential, not Sport, but again, Lexus remains ambiguous on this abbreviation.

kerplunk38

That is because it does not impact the throttle mapping in any way, shape, or form. S Mode (not the same as Sport Mode) does exactly what you stated. It modifies shift points which in turn help with engine braking, and thus avoid constant shifting when driving through hilly terrain. I can see where this could help with towing.

dstock

FYI - the OM states to put the tranny in 5s and susp in sport if you equipped. Also turn off air susp or car while hooking up anything to hitch so leveling doesn't get screwy.

Skyron

I will be towing a Jayco Skylark 3500 Lb. trailer with a our GX 460 Premium.We recently purchased the GX 460.. Previously I towed with a 2005 4R V8 with really good performance.
Will the performance be as good or better.??? And any GX460 towing recommendations???
Have the Lexus factory $700.00 hitch installed and using a Hensley cub hitch.
Ron

Kitana

Not nearly the load you will be towing but I have a small 4' x 6' enclosed cargo trailer for all our beach stuff. I can't even tell it is behind me when towing. With it almost fully loaded we still averaged 21mpg highway down and back from the cottage. I am confident it could take on much larger/heavier trailers without any issue.

Skyron

Thanks for the reply.
The trailer is 23+ Feet Long and with a single axle.
Ron

Kitana

Side note: Since the GX has a swing out back gate I highly recommend a swivel jack welded to the side of the hitch frame to avoid damaging the gate if you don't already have one.
Not my boat or trailer. Just an image I found to show the jack.

Skyron

I am curious what milage I can expect with the GX 460 Premium pulling our travel trailer.
The frontal area on the 3500 pound Travel Trailer is a nicely designed aerodynamic 'V'.
We plan on taking an extensive trip next summer.
What are other GX owners on the Lexus forum experiencing with gas milage towing?
Ron

OrangeKid

I tow a 23' Airstream that weighs up to 6000 lbs when fully loaded. I get around 10 mpg when towing. I can almost see the fuel gauge go down as I tow up mountain passes.

Other than poor mileage I enjoy towing with my 2013 GX 460.

Letch

I tow a 5500# boat and have no problems at all. It tows way better than my previous vehicle (Mercedes ML 320) rated to tow 7200. I usually get about 11.5-12 mpg when towing, but the GX handles it without any issues.

cjs2000

I also get 10 mpg towing a 3500lb travel trailer, it's full height and not really all that aerodynamic.

lexusfreez

We are planning a move from Alberta to the Toronto area in the next month or so. We don't have a whole lot of furniture in our house that's of value. Since we have to move our GX in any case, we were thinking of towing most of our valuables in a UHAUL 6'x12' trailer.
I don't have the hitch installed yet, but the dealer here will charge about $750 or so.
We expect to load about 2500 lbs or so.
The distance traveled will be about 2000 miles or so.
Is this move possible with this type of trailer load? It'll be the first time I'm attempting something like this, so please pardon my ignorance.
Any tips/suggestions will be appreciated.

Eppieguy

You should have no problem with that weight. Make sure your tires are properly aired up and just take your time. Make sure you keep extra room for stopping as you will be hauling a lot of extra weight. Just be smart about it.