2009 LS 460 from Park Place Lexus Mission Viejo

Park Place Lexus Mission Viejo introduces the 2009 LS 460. Visit the dealership to schedule a test drive or to learn more about the LS 460.

The LS 460’s outstanding performance, sure-footed dynamic abilities and advanced active safety systems have been further strengthened by the addition of permanent all-wheel drive. The 2009 model year expands the Lexus AWD lineup, making the LS 460 the fourth luxury sedan to offer AWD performance following the IS 250, GS 350 and LS 600h L.

Lexus announced the addition of all-wheel drive (AWD) versions of its flagship luxury sedan, the 2009 LS 460 and long-wheelbase LS 460 L in Moscow, an all-wheel drive city if there ever was one! The AWD versions of the LS 460 and LS 460 L utilize a drivetrain almost identical to their hybrid counterpart, the LS 600h L. The AWD system is a three differential configuration featuring a highly compact Torsen^® Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) that distributes drive torque between the front and rear axles with a 40:60 rear axle bias for normal torque distribution. It can instantly and optimally vary between 30:70 and 50:50 depending on driving conditions, thus helping to ensure excellent traction performance and driving stability.

The AWD LS 460 and LS 460 L are both powered by a 4.6-liter V8 mated to the world's first eight-speed automatic transmission, identical to their rear-wheel drive equivalent. The AWD versions produce 357 hp and 344 lb/ft of torque and can accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in about 5.9 seconds. Estimated fuel economy is 16 mpg in the city and 24 on the highway.

In addition to the luxury, convenience and safety features found on the current LS 460, both AWD versions come standard with air suspension, Variable Gear-Ratio Steering (VGRS) and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS). The computer-controlled AVS system continuously adjusts shock absorber damping rates to help provide comfort and handling precision. The VGRS system selects the steering gear ratio according to vehicle speed, enhancing responsiveness and driver control. VGRS also partners with the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, making minor steering adjustments to help improve control during challenging road conditions. The AWD models will also come standard with 18-inch wheels with all-season tires, a wood- and leather-trimmed heated steering wheel and power rear sunshade for added luxury.

The Lexus LS is the flagship sedan at Lexus. It offers one of the most comfortable passenger cabins available today and serves as a rolling showcase of the latest technology in luxury cars. Reviewers tend to gush over the LS 460, and road tests become near overwhelming experiences. For example, the car scribes at CNET said the 460 L "is the best car we've seen. We can't put it any more bluntly than that. It checks off all the tech boxes then goes and adds some new ones," calling it a "Four Seasons hotel on four wheels." They, like most calm and composed pros, were blown away upon seeing the LS 460 park itself. It’s enough to bring on writer’s block.

The 2009 LS comes with four-wheel power-assisted disc brakes with brake assist, antilock braking and electronic brakeforce distribution. Both LS trims come with electronic traction control and electronic stability control. A full complement of passive safety features including the most advanced airbag systems help prevent injuries.

The LS is a luxurious cruiser, delivering a soft, yet well controlled ride, especially the longer wheelbase LS 460 L. The base LS 460's front and rear suspension is an independent multi-link with shock absorbers and stabilizer bar. The LS 460 L's optional Air Suspension Package fits the sedan with Variable Gear-Ratio Steering and Adaptive Variable Air Suspension that is electronically controlled retaining the soft ride, but automatically adjusting to driving conditions. Reviewers praise it for delivering the “best of both worlds—remarkable handling and a pillowy ride.” Reviewers also praise the LS 460’s electric steering, noting the tight turning circle and marveling at the ability of the brakes to bring this large luxury sedan to safe, short, secure stops.

The 2009 Lexus LS 460 in the standard or long wheelbase version is spacious, luxurious and packed with an amazing amount of technology. Both LS trims come with a premium sound system with digital sound processor, an automatic sound levelizer and six-disc in-dash CD changer. The entertainment system comes with an iPod/MP3 WMA port. Reviewers rave about the optional Mark Levinson Reference Surround-Sound Audio System. The Mark Levinson System comes with 19 speakers, delivers 450-watts of sound and has a six-disc CD/DVD auto-changer and DVD audio and video playback. The optional navigation system, which includes a voice-activated HDD Navigation System with backup camera, Bluetooth technology, XM Satellite Radio and real-trim traffic capabilities, comes in three different package options or as an individual upgrade.

With the Advanced Parking Guidance System, the LS 460’s rearview camera and dashboard screen help the driver position the car correctly to automatically maneuver into a parking spot. The steering wheel moves as the car automatically makes the right maneuvers to park while the driver must maintain a certain low speed with a foot on the brake pedal. Once the LS 460 is in the parking space, the driver finishes aligning the car by pulling forward. You have to see it to believe it!

The Lexus LS 460 achieves the highest reliability scores possible in quality and dependability studies by J.D. Power and Associates. The 2009 LS 460 AWD models should have arrived by the time you read this. Please give us a call for an introduction and test drive.