TheeAntic

So I was originally looking for a low mile GX470 w/ KDSS but have just about given up on finding that unicorn, I am considering the GX460 since KDSS is standard.

The only issue I am having are the reports of abysmal handling, I'm not expecting it to drive like a sports car but I hate body roll with a passion and don't want to feel like I'm about to tip over when I take a corner at speed.

So my question is this, how is the handling stock? Is it as bad as they (Reviewers) say it is? How about with an aftermarket suspension setup like some Radflo's?

Thanks in advance - Brian

S2k4

If you want a sports car feel, this is not for you. I am sure different set of tires and wheels would make a difference, however.

tecman

Why not test drive one? Everyone has their own perspective with the handling of the GX460. Does this BOF have some body roll, absolutely.

bd5400

Supposedly the adjustable dampers on the 2010-2013 premium and 2014+ luxury help with body roll in sport mode but I can't say that I can notice a huge difference between the settings.

It it drives like a tall body on frame SUV. I've never felt like it was going to roll over.

TheeAntic

If I wanted a sports car like SUV I would be looking at an X5, but I need off road capabilities.

I plan on doing just that. I've been deployed for a few months overseas. I come home soon, just trying to plan everything out.

Do you still feel planted?

I drove a 2006 4runner for a short period that had what I suspect was blown shocks. Terrible body roll in the corners. It was still tolerable though, and a fair trade off considering its off road prowess. I'm just curious as to whether the GX460 is comparable.

daman7676

iTrader: (1)

In regards to corner, if you're talking about talking a right turn at a light, you'll definitely feel it. But if you're going through some switch backs at a safe speed, the GX460 actually feels fairly sure footed. As Tecman said, there's going to be some body roll feel but I don't ever feel like it's going to tip over. If anything, I'm always pleasantly surprised at how planted it does feel for being a tall 5,000lb SUV.

TheeAntic

Awesome, sounds good to me.

The only other possible gripe I may have is the multiple reports of loose, unresponsive steering. Is this true or are people just blowing things out of proportion?

Nickk6

Having owned a 2010 F150 and 2012 Ram 1500, I can definitely say the handling is a bit unresponsive in comparison to a full size truck (both trucks had 20" wheels), especially considering the GX has AWD. I did drive a model with air suspension and it had much less body roll, handling and braking felt much better.

daman7676

iTrader: (1)

Good point to clarify, my 2010 GX is a Premium with the air suspension. I typically go between "Normal" and "Comfort" for around town. If I do happen to be on a road with a few more curves I'll put it in Sport.

Similar to bd5400, I don't notice a huge difference between the modes. The difference I do feel makes me wonder if it's just my perception from flipping a switch.

coolsaber

It all comes down to personal preference. By no means is the GX steering direct. Its meant to be loose and easy to turn due to the shear mass of the vehicle and offroad use. The KDSS system does handle the body rolls well, but its main purpose is wheel articulation off road then say adaptive drive found in BMWs.

The GX does have huge amounts of body roll but i think once your behind the wheel you`ll quickly adapt to its driving style and stop yourself from trying to take quick turns in a unibody.

NMBruce

I think the GX460 premium model handles find for a 5000 lbs vehicle with AS tires that I find to be POS. You have to look at what this vehicle is made for and what it was designed to do. We live in the mountains and I have no problem pushing it through corners, not as fast as my SLK, but faster than I did in my Jeep (sold, now a lifted GX470).
In the winter we put Cooper snow tires on and it handles a lot better. Girlfriend is ready to go to some 10ply tires, so far she has been luck not to get a puncture in the OEM tires.. She has taken this into fields to show ranches.

You said something about needing to be able to go off road, get better tires than the Michelin tires that came with it and then watch the low hanging front end and you will be able to go places. My girlfriend does, but has already damaged the lower fender on a rock. There are also lifts you can do and some armor for the underside. RCI metal works just fitted slider to a GX460.