The 4.7-liter V8 and five-speed automatic are standard. Also standard: anti-lock brakes, traction control, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Torsen limited-slip differential, and Adaptive Variable Suspension with adjustable height control. GX 470 rides on 265/65HR17 tires on 17-inch alloy wheels.

Options include a third-row seat with rear air conditioning ($2,030); the navigation system bundled with a Mark Levinson premium audio system ($2,700); a rear-seat entertainment system with two headphones ($1,560); and a tow hitch receiver ($50). Bluetooth is an option on 2005 models, allowing the driver to wirelessly link cellular telephones to the GX for hands-free communication.

The new Sport model is equipped with the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, which uses electronically controlled hydraulic cylinders to help vary the degree of sway resistance provided by the front and rear stabilizer bars. The Sport model is distinguished by special exterior trim, including wheels and roof rack finished in a dark graphite color, while the interior is highlighted by black bird's-eye maple wood and dark graphite metallic trim.

Standard passive-safety equipment includes dual-stage frontal airbags and side airbags for the front and second-row seats, and side curtain airbags designed to help provide head protection should the vehicle roll. Three-point seatbelts are provided for each seating position, and the front belts are equipped with pretensioners and force limiters to help minimize seatbelt-related injuries. A tire pressure monitoring system is standard.