The LS series has been the flagship sedan in the Lexus lineup since the brand's launch in 1989. Now in its fourth generation, the LS continues to be optimized for reliability, refinement and comfort at the expense of responsive handling, although a new Sport package seeks to address that deficiency.
Aside from the standard LS 460 model discussed herein, the latest generation LS lineup also includes a long-wheelbase variant, the LS 460 L, as well as a hybrid model dubbed the LS 600h L.
The LS 460 is the beneficiary of a recent mid-cycle refresh that includes a revised front fascia, headlamps, and taillamps. In addition to the body changes, the standard wheels have been upgraded to a new 18-inch chrome 10-spoke design.
Despite the changes, conservatism is still the defining stylistic trait of the LS 460 inside and out. While a bit lacking in visual excitement, it does feature a comfortable and well-designed cabin with supportive seats, high-quality materials and exemplary fit-and-finish.
The LS 460’s sole powertrain is comprised of a smooth 4.6-liter V8 mated to the world's first eight-speed automatic. The engine produces 380 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 367 lb-ft of torque at 4,100 rpm in rear-wheel-drive form, although opting for the all-wheel drive variant drops those figures to 357 horsepower and 344 lb-ft of torque.
That power is enough to propel the LS 460 from a dead stop to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, although the car is more comfortable as a long-distance cruiser than a back-road attack machine. Fuel economy is rated at 16 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway in RWD form, while the AWD model returns 16/23 mpg. The engine is one of few V8s that qualify the LS as a ULEV II vehicle.
Standard and Optional Features
Standard features on the LS 460 include leather upholstery, genuine wood trim, power front seats, a 10-speaker sound system with a six-disc CD changer, USB/AUX input jacks and XM satellite radio, Bluetooth smartphone connectivity, a backup camera and dual-zone automatic climate control.
Those looking for something extra in the luxury department can choose from the LS 460’s long list of available extras. Highlights include an HDD navigation system with enhanced Bluetooth technology, an advanced Parking Guidance System that will parallel park or back the car into a spot and a 19-speaker, 450-watt Mark Levinson sound system.
The Comfort Package bundles together a wood and leather-trimmed heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a power rear sunshade, power door closers, a power rear trunk and headlamp washers. To those features, the Comfort Package Plus adds power lumbar massage and four-way lumbar adjustment for outboard rear seats, heated and ventilated rear seats.
Executive-Class Seating Package
The special order only Executive-Class Seating Package is designed to absolutely coddle the rear seat passengers. The setup replaces the middle rear seat with a fixed console and adds a throne of a right seat that reclines, features a multifunction massager, is heated and ventilated and also offers a leg rest. Also included is a DVD rear seat entertainment system with dual nine-inch screens, four-zone automatic climate control, a rear-seat wood-trimmed table and a rear-seat cool box for storing beverages (preferably champagne).
LS 460 Sport
Looking to add a dose of excitement to the LS 460, Lexus had made available a sport package that includes a sport-tuned air suspension, a unique grille and slightly more aggressive exterior trim, front sport seats, a sport steering wheel with paddle-shifters, Brembo brakes and 19-inch forged alloy wheels shod with summer tires.
Occupant Safety
The LS 460 comes standard with dual front, side, knee and side curtain airbags in addition to traction and stability control systems, electronic brake force distribution and brake assist. Rear side airbags are available as an option.
Key Competition
Though the LS 460 is aimed at more expensive full-size luxury sedans like the BMW 7-Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Jaguar XJ, it also faces competition at the lower end of the price spectrum from the Hyundai Equus.