New 2009 Lexus LS 460

Vehicle Overview
Lexus' flagship LS 460 full-size sedan is available in standard form and as a limousine-like long-wheelbase LS 460 L model that stretches nearly 203 inches from bumper to bumper — 5 inches more than the standard model. Competitors include the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class. An optional Advanced Parking Guidance System lets the car park itself and is the car's most intriguing feature. A hybrid version of the LS 460 L sedan is dubbed LS 600h L.

New for 2009
Lexus adds an all-wheel-drive version for both regular and extended-wheelbase trims of the LS 460 for 2009.

Exterior
Each new Lexus becomes incrementally more sculpted, with market pressure by more adventurous competitors eroding the company's traditionally conservative lines. The LS features an aerodynamically laid-back grille, headlights and windshield, with the hint of a BMW-like trunk at the rear. 18-inch aluminum wheels, high-intensity-discharge headlights, and 19-inch wheels are available.

Interior
In the long-wheelbase variant, Lexus aims to replicate the environment of a business jet with optional massaging, 45-degree-reclining rear seats that include an ottoman for leg support. Interior features for either LS model include: Standard power moonroof, available voice-activated navigation system, available 19-speaker Mark Levinson stereo with 8GB hard drive, available rear flip-down DVD entertainment system on long-wheelbase models.  Long-wheelbase model offers an optional Executive Class Seating Package with reclining seats, center console with a tray table, ventilation controls and a drink cooler. Shorter-wheelbase LS 460 has a three-passenger backseat, while long-wheelbase version has center console and bucket seats 

Under the Hood
The 4.6-liter engine uses direct fuel injection along with traditional port fuel injection.  The 380-horsepower, 4.6-liter V-8 with 367 pounds-feet of torque engine, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission is mighty powerful.  Rear- or all-wheel drive, electronic power steering and available air suspension with selectable comfort modes are quite impressive.

Safety
Safety features include: Electronically controlled antilock brakes with brake assist and electronic brake-force distribution.  An electronic stability system with side-impact airbags for the front seats, side curtain airbags, front knee airbags and available rear-seat side-impact airbags.  Options inlcude Lexus' Pre-Collision System and a rearview camera with navigation system.