All-new for 2007, the LS 460 replaces the 2006 LS 430 as the flagship sedan of the Lexus brand. It is available in regular configuration and in the company’s first-ever long-wheelbase model.

Click image to enlarge Images courtesy: Lexus

Both the LS 460 and LS 460L use a 4.6-litre V8 engine, mated to what Lexus calls the world’s first eight-speed automatic transmission. Features include an electronic power steering system, and next-generation Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) System, which integrates the electronically-controlled brakes, steering, stability control and engine torque to anticipate the onset of a skid or slide, and then seamlessly helps correct the situation.

The LS 460 includes 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, heated wood steering wheel with memory power tilt and telescopic, six-CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary audio jack and ten speakers, climate-controlled front seats, 16-way driver and 12-way passenger power seat, heated rear seats, auto-dimming rearview and exterior mirrors, power sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, auto-levelling high intensity discharge headlights with washers, power assisted trunk closure, and tire pressure monitoring system.

Additional features on the LS 460L include rear memory seats, Sound Library music system, heated and air conditioned rear seats, navigation system with backup camera, power trunk open/close, and power rear sunshade.

Options on the LS 460 include Sound Library music system, Mark Levinson stereo system, navigation system with backup camera, radar-based adaptive cruise control, and heated and cooled rear power seats.

The LS 460L can be optioned with such items as a rear cooler box, four-zone independent climate control with infrared body temperature sensor, premium leather interior, acoustic glass, 19-speaker stereo, sport-tuned suspension, rear DVD entertainment system, four-passenger seating, rear seat fold-out table, rear massage seat, rear fold-out ottoman seat, adaptive variable suspension, and advanced parking guidance system that allows the car to parallel park by itself.

The LS 460 certainly deserves its place at the top of the Lexus line-up: it’s fast, handles well, looks great, and swaddles its passengers in almost ridiculous comfort. The LS 460L does the same thing, but get into the back seat, and you won’t want to leave. While some long-wheelbase cars are all about the passengers, though, the 460L is also a treat for the driver, and can even be ordered with a sport suspension and performance tires. A complete rear-seat DVD-based entertainment system has a steep learning curve but will keep passengers happy on even the longest drives. Surprisingly, the big LS 460 is relatively frugal with fuel: its economy figures are virtually unchanged from the 278-hp, 4.3-litre engine it replaces from 2006.