2007 Lexus LS460: First Look

Motoring Channel Staff - 12/Jan/2006

Click here for more up-to-date details on the Lexus LS460.

In the automotive industry, world firsts are most often the reserve of 100 year old German automakers, but at the 2006 NAIAS, the biggest motor show in America, it was the Japanese who were making the big waves.

Much to the annoyance of Mercedes-Benz, Lexus released its new LS460 flagship luxury saloon, which features an 8-speed automatic transmission - a feat it rightly claims as a world first.

Lexus also brings the ageing LS range into the new millennium; the LS460's styling builds on the success of the GS range, which has been selling above expection. The LS460's longer, wider body adds import, while headlights and grille are similar to those seen in the IS range, supplying it with a more confident face.

The new 2007 model LS is powered by an all-new highly advanced front-mounted 4.6-litre V8 engine that produces 280kW (380 horsepower) and 500Nm of torque.

Combined with an 8-speed automatic transmission driving the rear wheels, the LS 460 will travel from 0-100km/h in 5.5 seconds.

With that level of performance, explains Lexus, the new LS achieves an estimated combined city/highway mileage in the mid-20s (miles per gallon). Lexus is targeting an Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle II (ULEV II) rating for the LS 460, which is expected to arrive in Australia late in 2006/early 2007, priced above $200,000.

Lexus has revealed that the new LS is built on a sophisticated platform that maintains a delicate balance between ride comfort and responsive handling. The completely redesigned multilink suspension system includes an electronic power steering system and a next-generation Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system.

VDIM is an advanced stability system that integrates and manages a new Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) system, Electronic Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Antilock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and engine torque via the electronically controlled throttle.

Monitoring a variety of sensors, the system is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and then help correct the situation with a combination of braking, throttle and steering control in a way that is essentially transparent to the driver. Data is gathered from more sources and processed earlier and faster than in previous designs, helping to make VDIM less obtrusive and even more effective.

Intelligent technology and what Lexus calls emotionally evocative design is evident throughout the impressively appointed cabin of the new LS sedans. Extra luxury and comfort touches include a heated steering wheel and seats swathed in one of four tones of semi-aniline leathers matched to one of three coordinating wood-grain trims.

Rear occupants can relax and enjoy power reclining seats - once only the domain of super high-end vehicles such as the Maybach - which are equipped with power leg rests and even a massage feature for when the stress builds up. The new LS even offers body-heat sensors hidden in the roof lining that help maintain the perfect temperature for all occupants by monitoring facial temperatures.

A fold-away table matched to the interior wood grain provides ample work space for rear passengers. The LS also features a nine-inch headliner-mounted rear-screen monitor along with an all-new 19-speaker Mark Levinson audio system that provides a true theater-level entertainment experience.

Additional luxury convenience features include a power rear-door closer and an automatic-powered opening/closing boot lid. Lexus already has a strong foothold in the US market, and from all angles the new LS flagship from could well be the onion in the ointment that Audi, BMW and Mercedes are not looking forward to.