LS 460 / LS 460 L

The fourth generation Lexus LS, introduced for the 2007 model year, is the first Lexus model produced in both standard and long wheelbase versions. The LS 460 (USF40) uses the standard 116.9 in. (2969 mm) wheelbase, while the LS 460 L (USF41) features a stretched 121.7 in. (3091 mm) wheelbase.[92] Based on the LF-Sh concept vehicle and using an all-new platform,[39][93] the LS 460 and LS 460 L are equipped with a brand-new 4.6 L 1UR-FSE V8 producing 380 hp (283 kW) and 367 lb·ft (498 N·m) of torque.[92][94] The LS 460 also contains the first production eight-speed automatic transmission (AA80E).[2] Acceleration from 0–60 occurs in 5.4 seconds.[92] Despite an added 250 lb (110 kg) of curb weight, the LS 460 L matches the acceleration of the lighter LS 460.[95] In 2008, an all-wheel drive option was announced for the 2009 model year LS 460 and LS 460 L.

The LS 460 and its variants were designed as Lexus was shifting its design strategy towards a more diversified product lineup,[96] with new vehicle launches increasingly aimed at global markets.[96] Plans called for the next generation LS to differentiate itself further beyond previous models in terms of design and technology.[94] A "Super LS" model, priced above the $100,000 ultra-luxury category,[97] was also considered.[96] The development effort for all fourth generation models was led by chief engineer Moritaka Yoshida.[98] Externally, the Lexus LS received the styling cues of Lexus' new design direction, called L-finesse.[99] The vehicle gained body forms running the length of the car, wheel arches, arrow-shaped chrome trim, a lower-set grille, and crystalline adaptive headlamps.[99] The long wheelbase LS 460 L possessed a similar profile as the LS 460, with identical overhangs in both front and rear, and longer rear doors. Aerodynamic drag remained the same.

The Lexus LS interior gained a push-button start, TFT instrument display, and numerous luxury options ranging from a hard disk drive-based GPS navigation system and song library to a heated steering wheel and XM NavTraffic.[92] The climate control offered the first infrared body temperature sensors and ceiling air diffusers in an automobile.[101] An "Executive" seating package on the LS 460 L included a rear seat DVD entertainment system, swivel tray table, and a shiatsu massaging ottoman seat.

The fourth generation Lexus LS parallel parking assist feature, the Advanced Parking Guidance System, became the first of its kind in the U.S.[100] Other drive assist features varied from a brake hold feature to radar cruise control.[92] The suite of new safety features extended from a Driver Monitoring System to Lane Keeping Assist systems.

The LS 460 and LS 460 L arrived at dealerships in Japan, the U.S., and Europe in late 2006,[105] and the vehicle reached Australia, East Asia, and the Middle East in 2007.[106] The U.S. base price for the 2007 LS 460 and LS 460 L was $61,000 and $71,000, respectively.[102] From 2006–2007, the average price paid for a LS 460 L in the U.S. exceeded $80,000, due largely to added options packages.[102] The price premiums for the long wheelbase model put the Lexus LS in the same average price range as its long wheelbase Audi, BMW, and Jaguar rivals for the first time.