The Lexus LS 460 L, specifically the facelifted version produced from October 2009 to 2012, represents the fourth generation of Lexus’ flagship sedan. Positioned as the long-wheelbase variant of the LS 460, it prioritized rear passenger comfort and luxury without sacrificing the performance expected of a full-size luxury vehicle. This iteration of the LS, known internally as the UVF40 series, continued Lexus’ commitment to refinement, technology, and reliability, competing directly with established German rivals like the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The “L” designation signifies an extended wheelbase, adding approximately 3.9 inches (100 mm) to the overall length, almost all of which benefits rear legroom.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | LS |
| Generation | LS IV Long (facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 460 L V8 (380 Hp) 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) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | ULEV II |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.2 kg/Hp, 193.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 253.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 380 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 498 Nm @ 4100 rpm (367.31 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 | 1965-2023 kg (4332.08 – 4459.95 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2470 kg (5445.42 lbs.) |
| Max load | 447-505 kg (985.47 – 1113.33 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 | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3090 mm (121.65 in.) |
| Front track | 1605-1613 mm (63.19 – 63.5 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1605-1618 mm (63.19 – 63.7 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) | 11 m (36.09 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 |
| 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, 333 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 312 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 L 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 D-4S system allows for both stratified charge operation at low loads for improved fuel economy and homogeneous charge operation at higher loads for increased power. The engine features a dual variable valve timing system (Dual VVT-iE) on both intake and exhaust valves, further enhancing performance and responsiveness. The 1UR-FSE produces 380 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 367 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. Paired with this engine is Lexus’ eight-speed Super ECT automatic transmission. This transmission is designed for smooth and seamless shifts, contributing to the overall refined driving experience. The transmission features manual shift mode, allowing the driver some control over gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The LS 460 L with the 4.6L V8 and eight-speed automatic delivers a comfortable and composed 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 eight-speed transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth and almost imperceptible gear changes. Compared to potential alternatives like the LS 600h hybrid, the 460 L prioritizes a more traditional, linear power delivery. The longer wheelbase contributes to a more stable and comfortable ride, particularly noticeable on uneven road surfaces. The steering is light and precise, but lacks the feedback preferred by more enthusiastic drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The LS 460 L came generously equipped as standard. Typical features included leather upholstery, wood trim, a premium sound system (Mark Levinson was an option), navigation system, power-adjustable and heated/ventilated front seats, rear seat climate control, and a power-operated rear sunshade. Optional extras included adaptive cruise control, a pre-collision system, and an air suspension system that further enhanced ride quality. The interior design emphasized luxury and comfort, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. The facelifted 2009 model received minor interior updates, including revised trim materials and updated infotainment system graphics.
Chassis & Braking
The LS 460 L utilizes an independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear. An optional air suspension system was available, providing adjustable ride height and damping for an even more refined ride. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) are standard features. The car’s substantial weight (approximately 4332-4460 lbs) necessitates a robust braking system to ensure confident stopping performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lexus LS 460 L was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its luxurious interior, smooth ride, quiet cabin, and strong engine. However, some critics noted that the car lacked the sporty handling characteristics of some of its European rivals. Compared to the LS 600h hybrid, the 460 L offered a lower price point and a more traditional driving experience. Fuel economy, while respectable for a full-size luxury sedan, was not a standout feature, averaging around 16 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Reliability was a key strength, with the LS 460 L consistently ranking highly in consumer reports.
Legacy
The Lexus LS 460 L, including the 2009-2012 facelifted models, 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 dependable. On the used car market, these LS models represent a good value for buyers seeking a luxurious and reliable full-size sedan. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, although preventative maintenance, such as regular fluid changes, is crucial to ensure long-term reliability. The LS 460 L remains a testament to Lexus’ commitment to quality and refinement.
