2009 Lexus LS
The ultimate smooth, quiet luxury sedan.
By New Car Test Drive
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Overview
The Lexus LS is extremely quiet and extraordinarily smooth. The LS 460 is easy to drive and operate and is less fussy than the German luxury cars. It delivers excellent performance but tilts more to the luxury side of the equation.
The 4.6-liter V8 can propel the LS 460 from 0-60 mph in a mere 5.4 seconds, according to Lexus, yet it gets an EPA-rated 24 mpg Highway. The eight-speed automatic is super smooth and plays a big role in the fuel-economy story. The electrically powered steering system adjusts according to speed. The ride quality and handling are exemplary. It doesn't get any smoother than the Lexus LS and it meets every expectation for refinement and luxury.
The Lexus LS 600h L employs a hybrid powertrain using a 5.0-liter V8 and electric motors rated at 438 total system horsepower. The LS 600h L delivers EPA fuel economy ratings of 20/22 mpg City/Highway. The LS 600h L is certified as a Super Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV). The LS 600h L comes with all-wheel drive and rides on the long wheelbase.
For 2009, all-wheel drive is available on the LS 460 and LS 460 L for enhanced traction and stability. The all-wheel-drive system features a Torsen limited-slip center differential to distribute torque between the front and rear tires. Normally, the front-to-rear torque split is set at 40:60 but it can vary between 30:70 and 50:50 depending on driving conditions.
The LS is packed with luxury and bristles with technology. The Lexus LS 460 was the first car in the world with a computer-controlled eight-speed automatic transmission. The LS 460 L is a long-wheelbase version that offers reclining heated bucket seats, a cool box, dual-zone rear HVAC controls, a folding table, an ottoman, a shiatsu massager and, of course, DVD with wireless headphones. The list goes on.
The 2009 Lexus LS lineup is largely unchanged from the previous year. The LS 460 was launched for the 2007 model year and the LS 600h joined the line for 2008.
Lexus surpasses other luxury brands in terms of quality, durability, reliability, and desirability among American buyers, an astounding performance. The flagship sedan that started out as the LS 400 and then grew up as the LS 430 is now the Lexus LS 460. The Lexus LS challenges all comers as the best luxury sedan in the world. It competes with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and S-Class, BMW 5 Series and 7 Series, and a few others.
Model Lineup
The 2009 Lexus LS lineup includes the LS 460 and LS 460 L long-wheelbase model powered by a 4.6-liter V8 and available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and the LS 600h L hybrid, a long-wheelbase model with all-wheel drive and a gas-electric powertrain. The models (with manufacturer's suggested retail prices): LS 460 ($63,825); LS 460 AWD ($67,350); LS 460 L ($73,735); LS 460 L AWD ($77,260); LS 600h L ($106,035)
The standard equipment list is long and the list of optional features is extensive. Options include Comfort Packages; the Navigation system packaged with the Advanced Parking Guidance Parking Package, or the Mark Levinson audio system, or with both the Parking Package and the Mark Levinson audio; a Pre-Collision System; One-Touch power operation of the trunk lid with power door closers; and numerous other conveniences. For the long-wheelbase versions there is an Executive Class Seating Package and a Rear-Seat Upgrade Package.
Safety equipment includes eight standard air bags to ABS (anti-lock brakes), electronic brake assist, ESP (electronic stability program), adaptive headlights, and tire-pressure monitoring. With the optional two-seat rear compartment, there is an additional air bag in the mix. Safety options include a pre-collision system that moves seats to a neutral position, closes the windows and sunroof, and tightens belts when the computers detect an impending collision.
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