Overview & Reviews

For more than 20 years, Lexus' LS has showcased the brand's top levels of technology, interior furnishings and driving refinement. The Lexus LS 460 is the latest model in this well-known premium luxury sedan line, boasting a supremely smooth V8, an eight-speed automatic transmission, handsome styling, impeccable fit and finish and, for the first time, an extended-wheelbase model. Known as the LS 460 L, this longer LS provides significantly more legroom for rear-seat passengers and competes directly against similar extended-wheelbase models offered by European luxury-brand automakers.

At the same time, Lexus has managed to make most of the LS 460's extensive technology intuitive, with most major functions controlled by good-ol' buttons and a touchscreen. Considering that these cars are often purchased by an older demographic, this is good news since the interfaces in competing models can be bewildering for even the most tech-savvy members of the Internet generation. For anyone interested in a large luxury sedan, the LS 460 deserves serious consideration.

Current Lexus LS 460
Under the skin of the current Lexus LS 460 is a 4.6-liter V8 with 386 horsepower and 360 pound-feet of torque (with standard rear-wheel drive) or 360 hp and 347 lb-ft (with optional all-wheel drive). An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard on every LS 460. Although the big Lexus still wraps its occupants in a cocoon of peace and quiet, various suspension and steering tweaks make for a more involving drive. There's even an available F Sport package with firmer suspension and steering tuning and upgraded brakes.  

Standard features include 18-inch wheels, xenon headlights, front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, adjustable drive settings, keyless ignition/entry, leather upholstery and a power adjustable steering wheel. There's also a navigation system, the Lexus Remote Touch interface, Bluetooth phone and audio, the Lexus Enform suite of smartphone-integrated apps, a Siri-based control system for iPhone users and a 10-speaker sound system with a CD player, HD radio, satellite radio and an iPod/USB interface. The 460 L adds a power-closing trunk, heated and cooled front seats and a power rear sunshade.

Option highlights include power rear seats, an adjustable air suspension, adaptive cruise control and the aforementioned F Sport package. The "L" version can be fitted with the Executive-Class Seating package which provides a pair of plush rear seats (separated by a console with a cool box), a power ottoman and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system.

In reviews we noted the LS 460 is still the serene, comfortable cruiser we'd expect. But now there's a sharper, more responsive feel to the steering and a more composed attitude when pressed on serpentine back roads. Although the Drive Mode Select doesn't turn the LS 460 into a sport sedan, it can provide a firmer, more controlled ride. Some will note that the LS' V8 isn't quite as potent as some European rivals', who also offer ultra-high-output variants of their big sedans. But this Lexus flagship boasts brisk performance that should be more than enough for most folks. And beyond that, there's also the appeal of Lexus overall quality, reliability and value.

Used Lexus LS 460 Models
The current Lexus LS 460 debuted as a redesigned 2013 model and kept its traditional strengths of impeccable build quality, strong yet quiet performance and a roomy, tranquil cabin stocked with the latest in luxury features. Most sheet metal was carried over, with the notable change being Lexus' signature angular grille design. The cabin was updated as well, with more fancy stitching and padded surfaces. Functional upgrades included the old touchscreen being replaced by Lexus' Remote Touch interface with its large display and mouselike controller. The following year, Siri Eyes Free iPhone control was added.

The previous-generation Lexus LS 460 was produced from 2007 through 2012. Throughout its run it received only minor updates. This LS 460 was a full-size luxury sedan available in regular 460 and extended-wheelbase 460 L body styles.

As its name suggests, this LS 460 was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 with 380 horsepower and 367 pound-feet of torque. Power went to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. For '09, all-wheel drive became optional while the following year brought a Sport package, with the latter including bigger wheels, summer tires, upgraded brakes, a sport-tuned suspension and slightly different body styling. In our instrumented testing, the LS 460 went from zero to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds -- on par with rivals in this segment.

The LS 460's standard feature highlights included automatic xenon headlamps, automatic wipers, a sunroof, keyless entry/ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, wood trim, a power-adjustable steering wheel and power/heated front seats. Option highlights include a navigation system, heated and cooled front seats, adaptive cruise control, regular park assist and even an Advanced Parking Guidance System. The LS 460 L also offered an available air suspension and a package that dropped rear seat capacity to two passengers and added a rear center console with cooled storage, reclining climate-controlled seats, ottomans and a DVD entertainment system.

For '10, this generation received its most notable changes that included updated electronics (iPod interface and Bluetooth audio), Lexus' Safety Connect emergency telematics and the aforementioned Sport package. Visually, only slightly revised taillights gave it away.

In our reviews of this Lexus LS 460, we found it to be impressively quiet. Drivers and passengers are coddled in a cocoon of luxurious serenity. That peace does create an isolated feeling that kills some involvement between car and driver -- this can be viewed as a good or bad thing depending on your point of view. Handling is competent, but obviously calibrated more for comfort than tight handling. The optional adjustable air suspension does give the driver some choices, however.

While we think other large, premium luxury sedans are more rewarding to drive and own, the Lexus LS 460 is less expensive to purchase and likely much less expensive to maintain. Most consumers should find it an exquisite way to travel thanks to its smooth and effortless performance, supremely comfortable interior and full menu of high-tech gizmos.

Previous to this model, Lexus sold the LS 430. The LS was first introduced for 1990 and there have been four generations since then.

User Reviews:

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  The Best of The Best - 2007 Lexus LS 460
  By Gene Broady - January 23 - 11:46 am

  I have owned a Lexus LS for the past 15 years and have recently purchased a new LS 460. This vehicle is in my opinion without a doubt the the best luxury car in the world for the price. This LS has every feature imaginable except the park itself feature. My LS is black and has chrome wheels that really sets it off. This LS looks, drives and rides like the dreamcar that it is!

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  Almost perfect - 2008 Lexus LS 460
  By robert - January 22 - 11:23 am

  I have taken several long trips, and the car has handled like a dream. I averaged about 27.8 mpg driving 78 mph. I arrive w/o feeling road weary. The only area of disapointment is the Voice Command System. Lexus needs to go back to the drawing board and make changes. I suggest the computer be programed to accept the zip code since it is often incapable of understanding the city name. I have on several occasion made a game out of it by allowing other passengers to get the computer to accept their commands, most often with no success. I strongly dislike having to stop in order to program.

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  Best car I have ever owned! - 2007 Lexus LS 460
  By talktomatt - December 3 - 12:03 pm

  This is my 6th Lexus automobile and BY FAR the nicest and best riding I have ever had! I own 4 cars including a Mercedes, but this car has them all beat by a mile or two! It is very quiet and smooth with lots of power and I love all the little goodies it has such as showing me the tire pressures, even for the spare, by pushing a button! The GPS is MUCH improved and the ride is just wonderful!

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  When you Care Enough to Drive the Best - 2007 Lexus LS 460
  By James R - November 6 - 5:03 pm

  We have owned 5 Lexus cars and the LS 460 is the best in a grouping of cars that were all outstanding. The attention to detail, the comfort and style, inside and out, are exceptional. We have been approached several times by people wanting to look at the car and to congratulate us on having such a beautiful automobile. Dollar for dollar, there is no other luxury car in its class that comes close to the Lexus LS 460.

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  Excellent Car - 2008 Lexus LS 460
  By KJM090 - November 6 - 12:20 pm

  True luxury vehicle with no real drawbacks. Acceleration excellent at all speeds and driving conditions. Went with all the bells and whistles. No wind noise experienced at highway speeds so far. Driver feedback from steering wheel could be greater compared to a M45 or 5 series. Liked LS 460 ride and street acceleration much better than considerably more expensive 7 series. Much more luxurious and larger than 5 series or M45. Great mileage so far. Fit and finish are excellent. Only driven 1500 miles so far but includes lots of driving including highways and rough back roads. Extremely comfortable.

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  best car I have ever owned - 2010 Lexus LS 460
  By rodney - September 7 - 9:00 am

  Having had Mercedes vehicles for 25 years and being tired of all the problems I decided to switch to the Lexus 460. What an incredible vehicle. Not a single problem with the new car. Took it in once for a routine check and the service dept. was unbelievably nice. The all wheel drive let me drive on some recent ice and snow as if the streets were clear.This truly is the best car I have ever owned.

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  So Far So Good - 2007 Lexus LS 460
  By Bronco - August 31 - 7:53 pm

  I play for a professional sports team in Denver and got my hands on a new LS 460 this month. I have really enjoyed the features and the comfortable interior of this car. It is very roomy and comfortable. It has a smooth and responsive powertrain. It is very comfortable and the hands free parking feature is very cool. Ive been getting some looks in it... it is definitely a head turner and looks great on 20s.

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  Superb car - 2009 Lexus LS 460
  By TxDoc - August 28 - 7:13 pm

  This is an amazing car. I test drove all the Germans and others and this is by far the best. I think this is one of the best cars ever made to date. You will wizz by cars you think must be going 20 mph while in reality they are going 70 mph - all while sipping your coffee in a luxurious setting while listening to amazing music. It has turned my daily commute into a delightful experience that I look forward to daily. I feel fortunate everyday to own this car and plan on enjoying it for a long time. I got the chrome wheels and it adds a nice look to the black car exterior. The car looks very stylish, not dull at all.

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  LS 460 - 2009 Lexus LS 460
  By Driver - August 26 - 5:00 pm

  Everyone who sees the car remarks about the fit & finish. Everything fits together perfectly and works perfectly. While the exterior may share some styling with the Lexus ES, you know you’re driving a top-of-the-line car once you are inside. In contrast to many European rivals, all the controls and buttons are easy to understand. Many of these have adjustable features which can be set by the owner or the dealer (like how long the interior lights stay on after you shut the door.). Actual mileage is 22 MPG, overall.

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  The Best Of 2007 - 2007 Lexus LS 460
  By Ron Dixon - July 17 - 11:53 am

  This is my second LS and it is by far the very best. The newly designed body is most striking and the interior is beautiful. The 19 speaker sound system is concert quality and the Park assist feature is truely unique. It is without a doubt the finest car I have ever driven. I cant imagine what the next generation of Lexus will bring, however, Im already looking forward to it. As usual, Lexus has outdone itself again!!