2009 Lexus LS: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Lexus LS makes news by expanding the availability of all-wheel drive to the entire model lineup. Three versions of Lexus' flagship sedan are offered. There is the regular-length 460, and the 460 L and gas/electric hybrid 600h L that add about 5 inches of wheelbase and overall length. Rear-wheel drive is standard on the 460 and 460 L. AWD is standard on the 600h and newly available on the 460 and 460 L. All 460 models have a 4.6-liter V8 and an 8-speed automatic transmission. Rear-drive versions have 380 hp, and AWD models have 357. The 600h pairs a 5.0-liter gas V8 with an electric motor for 438 hp total. The hybrid uses a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Available safety features include ABS, traction control, an antiskid system, front side airbags, rear side airbags, curtain airbags, and front knee airbags. Air suspension with driver-selectable firmness is standard on all AWD LS models and available on the rear-drive 460 L. A keyless entry and starting system with a pocket transmitter and steering-linked headlights are standard.

Option groups include the 460's Comfort Package with heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, and rear power sunshade. The heated steering wheel and power sunshade are standard on AWD 460s. The 460's Comfort Plus Package adds power rear seats and rear side airbags. Available for 460 L is a Rear Seat Upgrade Package that includes a cooled rear console and four-zone climate control that reacts to occupants' body temperature. Also offered on 460 L and 600h is an Executive Class Seating Package that changes the seating configuration to four passengers and adds a retractable table, DVD entertainment, and a reclining, massaging right-rear seat.

Optional on 460, and standard on 460 L and 600h is a navigation system with a rearview camera and a wireless cell phone link. Available on all LS models is Lexus' Pre-Collision Safety System. Packaged with adaptive cruise control, it automatically tightens the seatbelts and readies full braking power when sensors detect an imminent collision. Also available is Lexus' Advanced Parking Guidance System, which provides hands-free parallel parking.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Large Cars are top-of-the-line sedans in size and luxury. Many are manufacturer flagships and/or showcases for the newest automotive technology. Some have six-figure price tags.

Our Best Buys are the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Lexus LS. Our Recommended picks are the Audi A8, Cadillac DTS, and Hyundai Genesis.

New or significantly redesigned models include the BMW 7-Series, Hyundai Genesis, and Lincoln MKS.