Based heavily on the smaller of Toyota's two world market Land Cruisers, the latest Lexus GX 460 has arrived to replace the outgoing GX 470. The GX 460 is Lexus' answer for those seeking a luxury SUV that can still truly perform off-road when necessary.

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Significantly upgraded from its predecessor, including a lower displacement but more powerful V8, the GX 460 slots in above the RX 350 but below the hulking LX 570.

As its name implies, the GX 460 uses a 4.6-liter V8 that puts out 301 horsepower (up from 263) and 329 lb-ft. of torque (up from 323 lb-ft.). The sole V8 is mated exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission and an off road-oriented two-speed four-wheel-drive system.

Fuel economy is up to 15 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway compared to the outgoing model's rather dismal 14/18.

Although the GX 460 is based on one of the most rugged SUV platforms produced today, its positioning as a Lexus makes it a decidedly luxury-oriented SUV. Standard 18 inch wheels (up from 17 inchers) add to its on-road presence, as do standard illuminated running boards and a Lexus family waterfall-like horizontal grille.

The GX 460 model makes the outgoing GX 470's optional Kinetic Dynamic Suspension a standard feature. Designed to make the GX more stable and to handle better, the system offers a trio of suspension modes, as well as height adjustability.

Continuing in the old model's rather surprising off-road ability, the GX 460 features an adjustable transfer case that is activated by flipping a switch (unlike the more traditional mechanical transfer case lever on the outgoing model). Optional crawl control allows drivers to manually select a speed from 1 to 3.7 mph that the vehicle will maintain by automatically applying the brakes.

Optional front and wide-view side cameras are designed to help drivers park the GX in tight spaces but have some use off road, as well, for those few drivers who choose to leave the pavement.

Inside, the GX 460 ups the previous model's luxury content by a nine-speaker, 6-CD audio system with Bluetooth and iPod integration, available heated and cooled seats, power-folding third row seats and an optional rear seat entertainment system with dual monitors. A 17-speaker premium system is on the options list.

The GX adds more rear passenger space for the new model, but the cargo bay shrinks by 13 cubic feet.

The GX 460 is available in two trim levels -- base and Luxury. Including destination, the base model retails for $52,845, while the Luxury lists for $57,640.