The LS series has been the flagship car in the Lexus line-up since its -- and the brand's --launch in 1989. What the big car lacked in pizzazz or sport it made up for in refinement, reliability and technology. The latest generation of the car, its fourth, was first launched in 2007 and, for the first time, included a long wheelbase version of the car, simply dubbed the LS460 L. The L adds 4.8 inches to the wheelbase and overall length.

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The LS is available in four variations -- LS 460, LS 460 Sport, LS 460L and now the LS 600h L hybrid model. All variations of the LS 460 feature very recent exterior styling featuring a revised front fascia, headlamps, and taillamps. In addition to body changes, the standard wheels have been upgraded to a new 18-inch chrome 10-spoke design.

The new LS 460 Sport variation comes equipped with a sport tuned air suspension, Brembo brakes, 19-inch forged wheels, aero body design elements, and exclusive interior features.

The sole powertrain is made up of a 4.6 liter V8 mated to an industry-leading and world's first eight-speed automatic that turns the rear wheels. The engine is rated at 380 horsepower at 6,400 rpm along with 367 lb-ft of torque at 4,100 rpm in 2WD form, and it drops to 357 horsepower and 344 lb.-ft. of torque with all-wheel drive (AWD).

According to EPA estimates, it returns 16 mpg in the city cycle and 24 mpg on the highway in 2WD form, and retains 16 mpg in the city with a single digit drop to 23 mpg highway in AWD form. The engine is one of few V8s that qualify the LS as a ULEV II vehicle.

Traction and stability control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist and 10 airbags are of course standard. The power steering is electrical and high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights with dynamic auto leveling are included.

Options range from heated rear seats and all-weather floor mats to an advanced Parking Guidance System that will parallel park or back the car into a spot, with the driver only required to press the brake pedal.

The optional Mark Levinson sound system is a little more involved in the LS, as expected, with a Reference badge and includes a Hard Disk Drive with the ability to store up to 2,000 songs, 7.1-channel surround sound support and an in-dash six-disc DVD / CD changer capable of DVD video playback. Total system power is 450 Watts split among 19 speakers.