The Lexus LS 460 L, specifically the long-wheelbase variant produced from July 2012 to October 2017, represents a significant evolution in Lexus’ flagship sedan lineage. This iteration, often referred to as the facelifted fourth generation (XV40), continued the LS’s reputation for refined luxury, advanced technology, and a smooth driving experience. The “460 L” designation indicates the engine displacement and the extended wheelbase, offering increased rear passenger space. This particular configuration, equipped with the 4.6-liter V8 engine and the Super ECT 8-speed automatic transmission, was positioned as the core offering within the LS range, balancing performance with the comfort expected of a luxury sedan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | LS |
| Generation | LS IV Long (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 460 L V8 (386 Hp) Super ECT |
| Start of production | July, 2012 |
| End of production | October, 2017 |
| 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 consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 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 kg/Hp, 199 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 256.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 386 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 83.8 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 | 11.8 l (12.47 US qt | 10.38 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1940 kg (4276.97 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2495 kg (5500.53 lbs.) |
| Max load | 555 kg (1223.57 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 | 5210 mm (205.12 in.) |
| Width | 1875 mm (73.82 in.) |
| Height | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3090 mm (121.65 in.) |
| Front track | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1620 mm (63.78 in.) |
| Front overhang | 925 mm (36.42 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1195 mm (47.05 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 130 mm (5.12 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.26 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.8-11 m (35.43 – 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 brakes | Ventilated discs, 356 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 333 mm |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the LS 460 L lies the 1UR-FSE 4.6-liter V8 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant is a cornerstone of Lexus engineering, known for its smoothness and reliability. The 1UR-FSE utilizes a combination of direct injection (D-4S) and multi-port fuel injection, optimizing both power and fuel efficiency. The engine also features Dual VVT-iE (Variable Valve Timing with electric motor), which precisely controls valve timing for improved performance across the rev range. The engine produces 386 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 367 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. Paired with this engine is the Super ECT (Super Electronically Controlled Transmission) 8-speed automatic transmission. This transmission was designed to provide smooth, responsive shifts and contribute to improved fuel economy. The Super ECT features lock-up torque converter technology and adaptive shift control, tailoring shift patterns to driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The LS 460 L with the 4.6L V8 and 8-speed automatic delivers a driving experience focused on comfort and effortless power. While not as overtly sporty as some competitors, the LS 460 L offers brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in around 5.4 seconds – and a serene highway cruising experience. The 8-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, providing smooth and almost imperceptible gear changes. Compared to potential manual transmission variants (not offered in the US market for this generation), the automatic prioritizes ease of use and refinement. Compared to the hybrid LS 600h L, the 460 L offers a more traditional driving feel and slightly more responsive throttle response, though at the expense of fuel economy. The gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and fuel efficiency, with a relatively tall final drive ratio contributing to relaxed highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The LS 460 L came standard with a comprehensive suite of luxury features. These included leather upholstery, wood trim, a premium sound system, navigation system, tri-zone automatic climate control, and a power-adjustable steering wheel and seats. Standard safety features included a suite of airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability control, and traction control. Optional extras included features like a rear-seat entertainment system, massaging seats, adaptive cruise control, and a Mark Levinson premium audio system. The long wheelbase specifically added increased legroom for rear passengers, making it a popular choice for those who frequently travel with passengers or prefer a more spacious interior.
Chassis & Braking
The LS 460 L utilizes an independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear. Air suspension was available as an option, further enhancing ride comfort and allowing for adjustable ride height. 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 chassis is designed to minimize noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), contributing to the LS’s reputation for a quiet and refined ride. Stabilizer bars are fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lexus LS 460 L was generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and reliability. However, some critics noted that its styling was conservative and that it lacked the sporty handling of some European competitors. Fuel economy, while respectable for a large V8 sedan, was not a strong point. Compared to other trims in the LS lineup, the 460 L offered a balance between performance and luxury, appealing to buyers who prioritized comfort and space over outright performance. The hybrid LS 600h L offered better fuel economy but came at a higher price point.
Legacy
The Lexus LS 460 L, particularly the 1UR-FSE powered variant, has proven to be a remarkably reliable vehicle. The 1UR-FSE engine is known for its durability and longevity, and with proper maintenance, can easily exceed 200,000 miles. In the used car market, these LS 460 L models remain desirable for their combination of luxury, reliability, and relatively affordable price point. While newer luxury sedans offer more advanced technology and features, the LS 460 L continues to represent a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a comfortable and dependable full-size luxury car.
