Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | LS |
| Generation | LS IV (facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 460 V8 (381 Hp) Super ECT |
| Start of production | October, 2009 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 16.5 l/100 km (14.3 US mpg, 17.1 UK mpg, 6.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 11.1 l/100 km (21.2 US mpg, 25.4 UK mpg, 9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 261 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.1 kg/Hp, 194.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 252.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 381 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 493 Nm @ 4100 rpm (363.62 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6600 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 1UR-FSE |
| Engine displacement | 4608 cm3 (281.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Dual VVT-iE |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.6 l (9.09 US qt, 7.57 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11 l (11.62 US qt, 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1955-2055 kg (4310.04 – 4530.5 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2495 kg (5500.53 lbs.) |
| Max load | 440-540 kg (970.03 – 1190.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 560 l (19.78 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 84 l (22.19 US gal, 18.48 UK gal) |
| Length | 5060 mm (199.21 in.) |
| Width | 1875 mm (73.82 in.) |
| Height | 1455-1465 mm (57.28 – 57.68 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2970 mm (116.93 in.) |
| Front track | 1610-1615 mm (63.39 – 63.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1615-1620 mm (63.58 – 63.78 in.) |
| Front overhang | 915 mm (36.02 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1175 mm (46.26 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm (5.71 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.26 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Super ECT |
The 2009-2012 Lexus LS 460 facelift represented a mid-cycle refresh for the fourth-generation LS. Building upon the foundation laid by the XV40 platform introduced in 2006, the facelift brought subtle styling revisions, enhanced safety features, and refinements to the interior. The 4.6-liter V8 engine, designated 1UR-FSE, remained the flagship powertrain, delivering a blend of power and refinement expected of a luxury sedan. The Super ECT (Super Electronically Controlled Transmission) 8-speed automatic was a key component, designed to optimize fuel efficiency and provide smooth gear changes. This variant was positioned as the premium offering, appealing to buyers prioritizing performance and a more engaging driving experience compared to the LS 350.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the LS 460 is the 1UR-FSE 4.6-liter (4608 cc) naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine utilizes a dual-injection system – both direct injection (D-4S) and port injection – to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The D-4S system allows for precise fuel metering, improving both fuel economy and throttle response. The engine also features a dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-iE) system, which independently controls the timing of both intake and exhaust valves for optimal performance across the rev range. The 1UR-FSE produces 381 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 363.62 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. The Super ECT 8-speed automatic transmission is designed for smooth and responsive shifting. It features a torque converter lock-up clutch that engages in multiple gears to improve fuel efficiency. Paddle shifters were available as an option, allowing for manual gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The LS 460 with the 8-speed automatic delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the engine provides ample power for effortless acceleration and highway cruising. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 5.4 seconds. The 8-speed transmission contributes to a relaxed driving feel, keeping engine speeds low during steady-state cruising. Compared to the LS 350, the 460 offers noticeably stronger acceleration and a more confident feel when passing or merging onto highways. The automatic transmission is programmed for smooth shifts, prioritizing comfort over aggressive gear changes. However, the paddle shifters allow drivers to take more control when desired. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provides a balanced feel, although it lacks the all-weather capability of all-wheel-drive systems offered on some competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The LS 460 came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features, including leather upholstery, wood trim, a premium sound system, navigation system, and a power-adjustable driver and passenger seats with memory function. Available options included a Mark Levinson premium audio system, rear-seat entertainment system, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a power-closing trunk. The interior design emphasized elegance and comfort, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. Trim levels were relatively simple, with most customization coming through optional packages. The focus was on providing a luxurious and technologically advanced experience.
Chassis & Braking
The LS 460 utilizes an independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear. Air suspension was available as an option, providing an even smoother ride and the ability to adjust ride height. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. The LS 460 features ventilated disc brakes at all four corners. The front brakes measure 357×34 mm, while the rear brakes are 335×22 mm. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) are standard. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lexus LS 460 was generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and quiet cabin. The V8 engine was lauded for its power and refinement. However, some critics noted that the LS 460 lacked the sporty handling of some of its European competitors. Fuel economy, while improved with the 8-speed transmission, remained a concern for some buyers. Compared to the LS 350, the 460 offered a significant performance advantage but came at a higher price point. The LS 460’s reliability was also a strong selling point, consistent with Lexus’ reputation for building durable vehicles.
Legacy
The 1UR-FSE engine and Super ECT transmission have proven to be remarkably reliable powertrains. Well-maintained LS 460 models continue to provide years of dependable service. The engine is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. On the used car market, the LS 460 remains a desirable option for buyers seeking a luxurious and reliable full-size sedan. While newer Lexus models have introduced more advanced technology, the 2009-2012 LS 460 represents a high point in Lexus’ commitment to quality, comfort, and refinement.
