The Lexus LS 460, specifically the facelifted fourth-generation model produced from July 2012 to October 2017, represents Lexus’s flagship sedan offering. This iteration, designated internally as the XF40 series, continued the LS’s reputation for luxury, refinement, and advanced technology. The 460 variant, powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine and featuring an eight-speed automatic transmission coupled with all-wheel drive (AWD), occupied the top tier of the LS lineup during its production run. It was positioned as a direct competitor to established luxury sedans like the BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and Audi A8, aiming to deliver a uniquely Japanese approach to luxury – emphasizing quietness, reliability, and meticulous craftsmanship.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | LS |
| Generation | LS IV (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 460 V8 (370 Hp) AWD Super ECT |
| Start of production | July, 2012 |
| End of production | October, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg, 16.8 UK mpg, 6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 11.4 l/100 km (20.6 US mpg, 24.8 UK mpg, 8.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 263 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.6 kg/Hp, 177.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 227.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 370 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 473 Nm @ 4100 rpm (348.87 lb.-ft. @ 4100 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 | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.1 l (11.73 US qt | 9.77 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2080-2200 kg (4585.62 – 4850.17 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2575 kg (5676.9 lbs.) |
| Max load | 375-495 kg (826.73 – 1091.29 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 | 5090 mm (200.39 in.) |
| Width | 1875 mm (73.82 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2120 mm (83.46 in.) |
| Height | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2970 mm (116.93 in.) |
| Front track | 1610-1615 mm (63.39 – 63.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1610-1615 mm (63.39 – 63.58 in.) |
| Front overhang | 925 mm (36.42 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1195 mm (47.05 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Super ECT |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 355 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 333 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/50 R18; 245/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 8J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the LS 460 is the 1UR-FSE 4.6-liter V8 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant utilizes a combination of direct injection (D-4S) and multi-port fuel injection to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine features a dual variable valve timing system (Dual VVT-iE) on both intake and exhaust valves, further enhancing performance and fuel economy. The 1UR-FSE produces 370 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 473 Nm (348.87 lb-ft) of torque at 4,100 rpm. The engine’s architecture is a 60-degree V-angle, contributing to a smooth and balanced operation. Paired with the engine is Lexus’s Super ECT (Electronically Controlled Transmission) eight-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is designed for smooth and responsive shifts, and features adaptive shift logic that adjusts to driving conditions and driver input. The AWD system employs a viscous coupling center differential, providing full-time all-wheel drive for enhanced traction and stability.
Driving Characteristics
The LS 460 4WD Automatic delivers a driving experience focused on comfort and refinement. While not a sports sedan, the 370 hp engine provides ample power for effortless acceleration and highway cruising. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 5.9 seconds. The eight-speed transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band, providing smooth and seamless gear changes. Compared to the rear-wheel-drive LS 460, the AWD version offers increased grip and stability, particularly in inclement weather. However, the AWD system adds some weight, slightly impacting fuel economy and agility compared to the RWD model. The gear ratios are tuned for relaxed cruising, with a focus on minimizing engine noise and maximizing fuel efficiency. It doesn’t offer the sharp handling of some European competitors, but prioritizes a serene and isolated ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The LS 460 came generously equipped, even in its base form. Standard features included leather upholstery, wood trim, a premium sound system, navigation system, a power moonroof, and a suite of safety features including Lexus’s Pre-Collision System. Optional extras included Mark Levinson premium audio, rear-seat entertainment, adaptive cruise control, and an air suspension system that further enhanced ride comfort. Interior color options typically included black, ecru, and gray leather. The facelifted 2012 model received updated interior trim and technology features, including a larger infotainment screen and improved voice control functionality.
Chassis & Braking
The LS 460 utilizes an independent multi-link suspension system at all four corners. The optional air suspension system provides adjustable ride height and damping, allowing drivers to tailor the ride to their preferences. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with the front discs measuring 355mm and the rear discs measuring 333mm. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, along with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. 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, quiet ride, and reliability. However, some critics noted that it lacked the sporty driving dynamics of its European rivals. Fuel economy was also a point of concern, with the combined fuel consumption of 11.4 l/100 km being relatively high for its class. Compared to other LS 460 trims, the AWD version offered enhanced all-weather capability but at the expense of slightly reduced fuel efficiency. The LS 460 Hybrid offered significantly better fuel economy, while the rear-wheel-drive model provided a more engaging driving experience.
Legacy
The Lexus LS 460, including the 2012-2017 facelifted model, has proven to be a remarkably reliable vehicle. The 1UR-FSE engine is known for its durability and longevity, and the eight-speed automatic transmission has also proven to be robust. On the used car market, the LS 460 remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a luxurious and reliable full-size sedan. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, although replacement parts can be expensive. The LS 460 represents a high point in Lexus’s commitment to quality and refinement, and continues to be a respected and admired vehicle among luxury car enthusiasts.
