2007-2008 Lexus LS: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Lexus redesigned its flagship rear-wheel-drive, full-size sedan for 2007. In the process, the LS gained a long-wheelbase body style, more power, the industry's first eight-speed automatic transmission, plus a host of high-tech features. Two models were offered: the regular-length LS 460, which was slightly longer and wider than the 2001-2006 version; and the LS 460 L, which added 4.8 inches of wheelbase and overall length. A 380-horsepower, 4.6-liter V8 replaced the prior 278-hp, 4.3-liter V8, prompting a model-designation change from LS 430 to LS 460. At the same time, the eight-speed automatic transmission supplanted a six-speed automatic. Front side airbags, curtain airbags, and front knee airbags were standard. Rear side airbags were optional. Antilock braking, traction/antiskid control, and steering-linked headlights also were standard. An air suspension with driver-selectable firmness was optional on the LS 460 L. A keyless entry and starting system with pocket transmitter was standard, too. LS buyers had plenty of choices. Option groups included the base model's Comfort Package, with heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and rear power sunshade. The base model's Comfort Plus Package added power rear seats, rear side airbags, and rear climate control. The LS 460 L could get a Rear Seat Upgrade Package that included a cooled rear console and four-zone climate control that reacted to occupants' body temperature. Also offered on the LS 460 L was an Executive Class Seating Package that changed the seating configuration to four passengers and added a retractable table, DVD entertainment, and a reclining, massaging right-rear seat with a seat-cushion airbag. A Touring Package for the LS 460 L included uprated brakes, an air suspension, and 19-inch wheels. Optional on the base model and standard on the LS 460 L was a navigation system with a rear backup camera and a wireless cell phone link. It could be ordered with a premium audio system, with a 15.9-gigabyte hard drive to hold music files. Lexus's Pre-Collision Safety System was optional. Packaged with adaptive cruise control, it automatically tightened seatbelts and readied full braking power when sensors detected an imminent collision. Also available was Lexus's Advanced Parking Guidance System, which provided hands-free parallel parking. Rivals included the Audi A8, BMW 7-Series,and Mercedes-Benz S-Class.