Lexus GX 470's four-wheel-drive system uses a Torsen torque-sensing center differential to distribute the power 40:60 (front:rear) under most driving conditions and changes the ratio as needed based on steering input and wheel slip. The ability to change to a 29:71 ratio during steering maneuvers helps to enhance vehicle tracking through curves. If the rear wheels spin, the center differential can change the ratio to 53:47 to help control the slippage. The Torsen center differential also helps to make Lexus GX 470 less prone to slippage caused by sudden changes in road surface conditions, such as driving through a puddle or over an ice patch.

Downhill Assist Control (DAC) is designed to augment the low-speed descending ability of the transmission's low range by helping to hold the vehicle to a target speed with no intervention from the driver. The Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) system helps provide additional control for off-road driving or when launching a boat by helping to keep the vehicle stationary while starting on a steep incline or slippery surface.

Active traction control (TRAC) provides the traction benefits of having locking front and rear differentials, but with less weight. The system can apply the brake to a slipping wheel, while transferring torque to the remaining wheels with better traction. The variable-gear-ratio rack-and-pinion steering system helps make it easier to maneuver Lexus GX 470 in very tight places.

Rear Adjustable Height Control (AHC) enhances Lexus GX 470's flexibility in a wide range of driving situations. A high setting provides an additional 1.6 inches of clearance when traversing challenging terrain. AHC can also lower the rear of the vehicle 1.2 inches from its neutral setting for easier cargo loading.


Industry-First Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System of Lexus GX 470

Part of the Lexus GX 470 Sport Package and also available separately, the unique Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) adjusts the sway resistance provided by the front and rear stabilizer bars. KDSS can reduce maximum body-sway angle by as much as 50 percent to help enhance both on-road handling response and off-highway capability. Using a simple hydraulic control system, KDSS reduces the degree of sway stiffness provided by the stabilizer bars in response to changing road conditions and driver inputs.

In off-road driving situations, the KDSS hydraulic cylinders allow the wheels on each axle to move with a larger degree of side-to-side independence, helping to minimize any tendency for wheel lift. The increased suspension articulation helps maximize traction even in challenging off-road driving situations.

The optional KDSS uses significantly larger stabilizer bars than the standard suspension and employs hydraulic controls for both stabilizers in order to improve on-road handling and enhance off-road capability of Lexus GX 470.

The system uses hydraulic cylinders acting on each stabilizer bar that are linked by a pressure-sensing valve. During cornering, when both front and rear cylinders are compressed, no fluid is flowing in the system and the stabilizer bars work conventionally to reduce body roll.

However, when an uneven surface is encountered, one compressed cylinder causes fluid to flow between the front and rear cylinders, allowing the stabilizer bars to move freely. This increases wheel articulation and travel as well as helping to equalize wheel loading.

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