The Lexus LS 460 L, specifically the long-wheelbase variant produced from 2009 to 2012 following a mid-cycle refresh, represented the pinnacle of Lexus luxury and technology during that period. Positioned as the flagship sedan, the LS 460 L with the 4.6-liter V8 engine and all-wheel drive (AWD) system, paired with the Super ECT 8-speed automatic transmission, catered to buyers seeking a refined, powerful, and technologically advanced grand touring experience. This facelift brought subtle styling updates, enhanced safety features, and refinements to the interior, solidifying the LS’s reputation as a formidable competitor to established European luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | LS |
| Generation | LS IV Long (facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 460 L V8 (357 Hp) AWD Super ECT |
| Start of production | October, 2009 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 4-5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | ULEV II |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6 kg/Hp, 165.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 215.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 357 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 77.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 466 Nm @ 4100 rpm (343.7 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 | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.1 l (11.73 US qt | 9.77 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2159-2245 kg (4759.78 – 4949.38 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2654 kg (5851.07 lbs.) |
| Max load | 409-495 kg (901.69 – 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 | 5180 mm (203.94 in.) |
| Width | 1875 mm (73.82 in.) |
| Height | 1466 mm (57.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3090 mm (121.65 in.) |
| Front track | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Front overhang | 915 mm (36.02 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1175 mm (46.26 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.26 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 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 |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 356 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
At the heart of the LS 460 L was the 1UR-FSE 4.6-liter V8 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant utilized a combination of direct injection (D-4S) and multi-port fuel injection to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine featured a dual variable valve timing system (Dual VVT-iE) on both intake and exhaust valves, further enhancing performance and fuel economy. The 1UR-FSE produced 357 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 343.7 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,100 rpm. The Super ECT 8-speed automatic transmission was specifically tuned for smooth and responsive shifts, contributing to the overall luxurious driving experience. This transmission offered both fully automatic operation and sequential manual shifting capabilities.
Driving Characteristics
The LS 460 L 4.6L AWD delivered a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the engine provided ample power for effortless acceleration and highway cruising. The 0-60 mph sprint took approximately 5.9 seconds. The 8-speed automatic transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing smooth and almost imperceptible gear changes. The AWD system offered enhanced traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather. Compared to the rear-wheel-drive LS 460, the AWD version offered a more secure feel, but at a slight penalty to fuel economy. The air suspension system further contributed to ride comfort, effectively isolating passengers from road imperfections.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The LS 460 L came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features, including leather upholstery, wood trim, a premium sound system, navigation system, power-adjustable and heated/cooled front seats, and a power rear sunshade. Optional extras included a Mark Levinson premium audio system, a rear-seat entertainment system, adaptive cruise control, and a pre-collision system. The long-wheelbase configuration provided significantly more rear legroom, making it particularly appealing to chauffeur-driven buyers. Trim levels were relatively simple, with most customization occurring through optional packages.
Chassis & Braking
The LS 460 L featured an independent multi-link suspension system at all four corners, complemented by an air suspension system that automatically adjusted ride height and damping characteristics. This system provided a smooth and controlled ride, even on uneven surfaces. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution. The front brakes measured 356mm in diameter, while the rear brakes were 333mm.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lexus LS 460 L was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and advanced technology. However, some critics noted that the LS lacked the sporty driving dynamics of some of its European rivals. Fuel economy, while respectable for a large luxury sedan, was not a standout feature. Compared to the standard-wheelbase LS 460, the LS 460 L offered superior rear passenger comfort, making it a popular choice for those who prioritized rear-seat space. The AWD version provided added security in all-weather conditions, but at a slight cost in fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The Lexus LS 460 L, including the 2009-2012 facelifted models, has proven to be a reliable and durable luxury sedan. The 1UR-FSE engine is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance requirements, provided it receives regular servicing. In the used car market, these LS models continue to be sought after by buyers who value luxury, comfort, and reliability. While newer Lexus models have introduced more advanced technology and features, the LS 460 L remains a compelling option for those seeking a well-built and refined grand touring sedan.
