The Lexus LS wasn't just one of the first sedans from Japan to break into the luxury sector; it was arguably the most important. To this day, the LS continues to offer a luxurious driving experience, excellent build quality, and bulletproof dependability. The current generation LS 460 has stood the test of time fairly well; it launched some 11 years ago, with a mid-cycle update taking place for 2013.
For 2017, the LS 460 carries over effectively unchanged, other than a new colour called Nightfall Mica. This year also marks the conclusion of the current generation car; a brand new generation is set to arrive for 2018. As a part of this shift, Lexus has discontinued the LS 600h L Hybrid. It will most likely make its return after the new model launches.
As with its key rivals, the BMW 7 Series, Jaguar XJ, and Benz S-Class, the LS is available in standard and long-wheelbase L forms. The L boasts stretch-out levels of rear-seat legroom – 930 mm in total.
The LS is available in a single powertrain configuration, a 4.6-litre V8 engine that develops 360 horsepower and 347 lb-ft of torque. While rival brands' eight-cylinder models offer more power, the 460 has enough to move the big sedan around. An eight-speed automatic is standard, as is permanent all-wheel drive.
While the LS may not have the latest in-car infotainment features like CarPlay or Android Auto, or on-board wi-fi, the standard LS 460 is very well equipped. Equipment includes a 19-speaker Mark Levinson Reference audio system, voice-activated navigation with Remote Touch controller, Siri Eyes-Free, Bluetooth, premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, proximity key with push-button start, driver memory, powered tilt and telescoping steering column, moonroof, rain-sensing wipers, LED ambient lighting, genuine woodgrain trim, and 19-inch alloy wheels
The standard-wheelbase LS 460 is available with two packages, each costing $8,500.
The Technology Package adds variable ratio steering, radar cruise control, adaptive suspension climate control, emergency autonomous braking, heated and cooled rear seats with massage, rear cooler box, and power-operated rear sunshade.
An F-Sport package is also available, and while it doesn't get any powertrain updates, it features a performance-tuned air suspension, variable ratio steering, six-piston Brembo brake calipers, plus a torque-sensing limited-slip differential. The F-Sport looks the part too, with a mesh-backed grille, larger intakes, and forged 19-inch wheels. It even sounds the part - at least on the inside - thanks to a sound generator that pipes the V8's song into the cabin. Brushed aluminum replaces wood trim for the interior, and front and rear seats feature additional bolstering to hold occupants in place. A thicker-rimmed sports steering wheel with paddles for manual shifting are also included.
For 2017, the L comes equipped fully equipped and ready to lavish. Four-zone climate control with infrared body temperature sensor, a cooler box, heated and cooled rear seats, and a separate audio system with dual wireless headphones. The right rear passenger's seat gets a power-operated recline function with pop-out ottoman for first-class-like travel. Other standard features include adaptive air suspension, variable ratio steering, leather-wrapped dashboard, full-speed radar cruise control, emergency autonomous braking, and lane-keeping assist.
Pricing for the 2017 Lexus LS starts at $94,100 with the long-wheelbase LS selling for $130,250.
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