2009 Lexus LS: Road Test
2009 Lexus LS ▼
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- MSRP: $63,825 - $106,035
- Invoice: $56,803 - $94,370
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Our road test for the 2009 Lexus LS includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Lexus LS from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Lexus LS, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Lexus LS help you decide if a 2009 Lexus LS is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 460 | 460 L Executive Package | 460 L Touring Package | 600h L | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.2 |
Smooth and ample power at any speed. In Consumer Guide testing, an LS 460 did 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds. The silky automatic transmission is generally responsive, but a deep stab of the throttle is required to coax a downshift for maximum acceleration. Hybrid 600h models are heavier than conventional LS models, so they are only slightly quicker 0-60 mph. The gas/electric drivetrain calls little attention to itself. No opportunity yet to test an AWD LS 460.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 460 | 460 L Executive Package | 460 L Touring Package | 600h L | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 3.7 |
In Consumer Guide testing, an LS 460 averaged 22.7 mpg in mostly highway driving, 15.1 in tests that included gas-eating performance runs. A 460 L averaged a thirsty 13.7 mpg in mostly city driving. A 600h averaged 18.7 mpg in mostly highway driving. LS requires premium-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 460 | 460 L Executive Package | 460 L Touring Package | 600h L | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 7.7 |
The base suspension is pillowy on most surfaces with noticeable highway float. The available air suspension's Sport setting induces some body jiggle.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 460 | 460 L Executive Package | 460 L Touring Package | 600h L | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.5 |
The steering is light though direct, and the turning circle is impressively tight. LS is no sport sedan, however. The base suspension permits marked body lean, as does the air suspension's Comfort setting. Its Sport mode is slightly sharper overall. The Advanced Parking Guidance System is a marvel for parallel parking and works as advertised. It will also back the car into a parking-lot space, but that function takes too long to program.
QUIETNESS
| 460 | 460 L Executive Package | 460 L Touring Package | 600h L | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8.1 |
One of the quietest cars on the market. The engine is nearly silent at idle and emits a subdued growl under aggressive acceleration. There is virtually no tire, road, or wind noise.
CONTROLS
| 460 | 460 L Executive Package | 460 L Touring Package | 600h L | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.3 |
LS sets itself apart from its rivals by foregoing a complicating control interface. Main audio and climate controls are separate from the navigation system. A few functions require interacting with the navigation screen, thus complicating those adjustments.
DETAILS
| 460 | 460 L Executive Package | 460 L Touring Package | 600h L | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8.1 |
Top-quality materials with numerous soft-touch surfaces. Note that the premium audio system's hard drive can download music files from CDs, though a USB port would make loading the hard drive a faster process.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 460 | 460 L Executive Package | 460 L Touring Package | 600h L | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8.5 |
The front is spacious for adults, though taller drivers may need more headroom. A power tilt and telescopic steering wheel and wide, supportive seats with multiple power adjustments make it easy to find a comfortable driving position. Visibility is fine all around.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 460 | 460 L Executive Package | 460 L Touring Package | 600h L | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 7.5 |
Adult-roomy here, too, though foot space is tight with the front seats fully back in the standard-wheelbase model. The long-wheelbase model adds its length in rear legroom. The seat blends fine support and soft padding in the outboard positions. A middle rider will fit, but the contour of the cushion means passengers will be cramped for headroom; they also have to straddle a bulky driveline hump. The available Executive Seating Package combines upgraded leather with indulgent amenities such as a massaging right side seat and body-temperature sensors linked to the climate control. For some passengers, Executive Seating Package's leg rest can lift the occupant's feet into the seat ahead. Also note that with the leg rest extended, the front passenger seat cannot be occupied.
CARGO ROOM
| 460 | 460 L Executive Package | 460 L Touring Package | 600h L | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 4.1 |
The trunk is sufficient for most travel needs, but the rear air conditioning trims the volume by a full 6.0 cu ft. The trunk lid uses hinges that further rob useful space. In-cabin small-item storage is good.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 460 | 460 L Executive Package | 460 L Touring Package | 600h L | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 7 | 8 | 6 | 6 |
LS base prices start below those of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Audi A8. It is less sporty and more comfort-oriented than those German rivals, but Lexus' flagship is a Best Buy for its power, refinement, standard features, and optional gadgets. The addition of all-wheel drive to non-hybrid models further strengthens its appeal. The hybrid 600h is a technological tour-de-force, but in this price range, most European competitors offer the cachet of a 12-cylinder powertrain.
Total Score
| 460 | 460 L Executive Package | 460 L Touring Package | 600h L | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 84 | 81 | 82 | 82 | 73.7 |
Total Score: 82
Scores for all Premium Large Cars
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