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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  A Perfect Luxury Car - 2012 Lexus LS 460
  By jrl999 - November 28 - 5:35 pm

  I bought my 2012 LS 460L with 18K miles certified at a Lexus dealer in Miami FL. Drove it back to NC and found it to be the most comfortable car imaginable. Had a 2006 LS 430 which was also a near flawless car. I like everything about this car and it simply devours long trips on an interstate. Have only driven 3500 miles since buying it, but it is so comfortable and enjoyable to drive.

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  Magic car - Perfect 10 - LS 460 - 2008 Lexus LS 460
  By mitchell rowe - November 18 - 8:43 am

  The 2008 SWB LS 460 is light years ahead of the 2007,

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  In A Class By Itself - 2007 Lexus LS 460
  By Paul - October 30 - 12:03 pm

  We have had many Benzs over the years, and we just got tired of all the mechanical problems and costs. We were ready for a car to rely upon, that was luxurious, comfortable and beautiful. We got it with the LS 460. The car is awesome. We considered BMW also, but I know we made the right choice. Until you live with the car, you cannot appreciate it.

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  LS 460 Comments - 2007 Lexus LS 460
  By Leza2279 - August 7 - 2:23 pm

  I have been very happy with the LS 460 with the exception of one fault - and that is wind noise. Considering that this vehicle is the Lexus flagship, it is surprising that it has a fault such as wind noise. Supposedly Lexus is working on a fix.

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  Its a Lexus! - 2008 Lexus LS 460
  By Happygolucky - July 19 - 9:20 am

  After 3 years with a BMW and another with Mercedes, I can thankfully say Ive found a car that would rather sit in my garage than the dealers. Truly a delightful experience in all fashions of automotive ownership.

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  Excellent Japanese Quality... - 2010 Lexus LS 460
  By freddys555 - June 23 - 10:22 am

  Lexus/Toyota continues to impress my family and myself. This is the primary car my wife drives. I drive a Mercedes S550 (brand-new) and I cannot express the disappointment I have had after spending over $110K. I have brought my Mercedes back to the dealer over 6 times since I took ownership. Lexus? Zero problems, zero trips to the dealer except for scheduled maintenance. My other family member has a BMW 5-series. Unacceptable reliability.

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  Great car - lousy navigation system - 2008 Lexus LS 460
  By Ken in Missouri - December 4 - 2:20 am

  Luxurious car. Great ride, quiet as a tomb and comfortable. Fit and finish is great, just dont roll down the rear windows at highway speeds. The noise and interior vibrations will beat you to death. The sound system and power door locking system is fantastic. The navigation system cannot be added to or changed while you are moving - very poor "feature". My wife has an Acura with a much better nav system.

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  Truly amazing car! - 2008 Lexus LS 460
  By LSfan - November 27 - 9:26 pm

  My wife and I originally went into the Lexus dealer looking for a new GS. The salesman took us for a ride but said upfront that the car may be a little small for me. I am 65 and broad shouldered. He was right and the car was a bit cramped. While we were waiting for him to return with the keys my wife saw the LS460 and said she loved how that one looked. I of course responded that it was also the most expensive! When our salesman returned we said we would also like to drive the LS. Of course there was no comparison and we bought the LS. It is just the perfect car. So fast and incredibly comfortable. The interior is the nicest we have ever seen baring none. Highly recommend it!

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  2009 LS 460 AWD!!! Best decision! - 2009 Lexus LS 460
  By jasver - November 20 - 1:42 pm

  You work hard all of your life, you deserve this car. If you are considering it, you will never regret the decision. The car handles very well, and gives you the choice on the type of suspension you prefer. It is very responsive. You will feel safe and wrapped up in this vehicle. If you are looking for screaming performance, then you may want to look elsewhere, this ride is for those who just want a comfortable "couch on wheels" feel.

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  Wind noise problem - 2007 Lexus LS 460
  By SAM - November 9 - 7:33 pm

  Purchased car in September 2007. Test drove BMW 750i and decided to buy LS 460 due to reliability track record. The car is a great improvement over LS 430 in most categories. The interior design is more sporty and not just for older crowd. Exterior design is sporty but blends in with smaller Lexus sedans too easily. The seats are not very supportive in hard turns but comfortable. Rear seats with power recline and ventilation are very comfortable. The suspension is far better then previous LS 430. One major flaw is wind noise from both front windows. Just like every one else waiting for dealer to get parts as per Lexus bulletin. I seriously hope that this will fix the noise issue.