The Lexus LS (Luxury Sedan) was the first car created under the Lexus badge some 17 years ago. Since that time, the Japaneese luxury arm of Toyota has evolved into an esteemed brand with a number of offerings.
For 2007, Lexus has completely redesigned their flagship sedan making it the most comprehensive to date. The fourth-generation LS offers two models, the LS 460 and the first-ever long-wheelbase model, the LS 460 L.
Both feature a more striking appearance but the big news is what's packed inside these premium sedans.
Under the hood is a new 4.6-liter (hence the name change to LS 460) V8 engine that produces an impressive 380 horsepower and 367 lb-ft of torque. The new V8 is quiet, smooth, and powerful. Acceleration from zero to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 5.4 seconds. Acceleration for passing is very good, too.
Mated to the new V8 is a new 8-speed automatic transmission. Yes, I got that number right. The 8-speed automatic transmission is so smooth you can hardly feel its shifts.
Also worth mentioning is that the LS 460 delivers 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. The LS 460 L is rated at 18 city/27 highway. Both models also achieved an Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle II (ULEV II) rating.
As expected, the LS 460's four-wheel independent suspension system delivers a smooth, comfortable ride. The LS 460 L can be ordered with an optional Air Suspension System ($2,120) that provides even greater road isolation.
Both LS models include a number of standard safety and luxury features. One of my favorite conveniences that is standard on both LS models is keyless operation.
The LS 460 is about the same size as the previous LS 430. The long-wheelbase LS 460 L brings with it 4.8 inches of additional space and a long list of outstanding standard conveniences, including fifth generation Lexus Navigation with factory-installed XM Satellite Radio with NavTraffic, climate-controlled front seats, heated rear seats, a new heated steering wheel, power rear sunshade, a new one-touch open/close power trunk, power door closers, headlamp washers, and laminated side, glass, which is exclusive to the long wheelbase.
I sat in the back seat of my LS 460 L tester after moving the front seats to their rear most position. There was so much legroom and my shoes didn't even come close to hitting the front seats.
I like the new navigation system. It includes a 30 GB hard disk drive (HDD) for faster calculations. The HDD can also store as many as 2,000 digital songs when partnered with the optional Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound system. The specially developed 19-speaker, 450-watt discrete 5.1 Mark Levinson audio system creates a new benchmark for automotive sound with its theater-level entertainment experience.
The new LS 460 and LS 460 L will obviously pamper you in loads of comfort. Those looking for even more special treatment will enjoy the LS 460 L and its optional Executive Class Seating Package. This package provides a rear-seat entertainment system featuring a high-quality nine-inch screen that operates with an electric motor to open and close, a right rear-seat recliner with multifunction massage and an ottoman leg rest, four-zone independent front and rear air conditioning system with air purification, rear-door power sunshades, and a fixed rear console with foldout table.
I'm not sure if LS 460 buyers will actually opt for the Advanced Parking Guidance System, which assists with parallel and back-in parking. It's quite remarkable and I had fun trying it out. It's fairly easy to operate and it's amazing to witness. But, I think it's more of a gimmick than a necessity.
The LS 460 is priced at $61,000 while the LS 460 L costs $71,000. For those seeking the ultimate in luxury, the new LS is quite impressive.
2007 Lexus LS 460 L
Engine 4.6-liter V8 (380 hp)
Transmission 8-speed automatic
Drive Type RWD
Fuel Economy 18 city/27 highway
Base Price $71,000
As Tested $86,046 (includes $715 for destination)
Website http://www.lexus.com |
