The 2009 Lexus LS460, a flagship sedan embodying luxury and performance, marked a significant evolution in the Lexus lineup. This generation refined the LS’s reputation for comfort and refinement, introducing innovative technology and a bolder design. The LS460 aimed to elevate the driving experience, offering a compelling blend of power, handling, and sophisticated features.
From its striking exterior design to its opulent interior, the 2009 Lexus LS460 exuded a sense of prestige and sophistication. Under the hood, a powerful V8 engine delivered exhilarating performance, while advanced safety features provided peace of mind. This model represented a significant step forward for Lexus, solidifying its position as a leader in the luxury automotive segment.
Introduction
The 2009 Lexus LS460, the fourth generation of the flagship luxury sedan, marked a significant evolution in the Lexus lineup. This model year brought forth a range of refinements and advancements, solidifying its position as a benchmark in the luxury automotive landscape.
The LS460’s design, performance, and technology were meticulously crafted to deliver an unparalleled driving experience. It embodied Lexus’s commitment to innovation and sophistication, attracting discerning drivers seeking both comfort and exhilaration.
Key Features and Specifications
The 2009 Lexus LS460 was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, generating 380 horsepower and 367 lb-ft of torque. This powerful engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth acceleration and efficient power delivery. The LS460 also featured a range of advanced features, including:
- Lexus Drive Mode Select:This system allowed drivers to customize the vehicle’s driving characteristics, choosing between Eco, Normal, Sport, and Sport+ modes.
- Lexus Safety System+ (LSS+):This suite of safety features included Pre-Collision System (PCS), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), enhancing driver awareness and safety.
- Mark Levinson Premium Audio System:The LS460 was equipped with a 19-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, providing an immersive and high-fidelity listening experience.
- Navigation System:The LS460 featured a state-of-the-art navigation system with real-time traffic updates, enhancing convenience and driver guidance.
Design and Exterior
The 2009 Lexus LS460 is a luxurious sedan that exudes elegance and sophistication. Its exterior design is characterized by sharp lines, flowing curves, and a distinctive front grille that sets it apart from other luxury vehicles. The LS460’s design elements work together to create a powerful and graceful presence on the road.
The 2009 Lexus LS460 was a luxurious sedan known for its refined performance and opulent interior. While the LS460 was a flagship model, Lexus also offered a more practical and versatile option with the 1999 Lexus RX350 , a luxury SUV that provided ample space and comfort.
Both models embodied Lexus’ commitment to quality and reliability, offering distinct experiences for different driving needs.
Exterior Design Elements
The 2009 Lexus LS460 features a number of distinctive exterior design elements that contribute to its overall aesthetic appeal. These include:
- The Spindle Grille:The LS460’s signature spindle grille is a prominent feature, characterized by its large, chrome-plated, hourglass-shaped design. It gives the car a bold and aggressive appearance.
- Sharp Character Lines:The LS460’s body is sculpted with sharp character lines that run along the sides and hood, adding a sense of dynamism and athleticism to the design.
- Sleek Headlights:The headlights are sleek and modern, featuring a distinctive L-shaped design that incorporates LED daytime running lights.
- Distinctive Taillights:The taillights are equally striking, with a horizontal design that extends across the entire width of the rear end. They feature LED lighting technology for enhanced visibility and a modern look.
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels:The standard 18-inch alloy wheels are designed to complement the LS460’s elegant and sporty design. Optional 19-inch wheels are also available for a more aggressive look.
Exterior Color and Trim Options
The 2009 Lexus LS460 was available in a range of exterior colors and trim options, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles to their preferences.
The 2009 Lexus LS460 marked a significant evolution for the luxury sedan, featuring a powerful V8 engine and advanced technology. However, its predecessor, the 2003 Lexus LS430 , still holds its own with its timeless design and refined driving experience.
While the LS460 introduced a new era of luxury, the LS430 remains a testament to Lexus’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
- Exterior Colors:The available exterior colors included a variety of metallic, pearl, and solid finishes, such as Starfire Pearl, Obsidian, Black Onyx, Silver Lining Metallic, and Nightfall Mica.
- Trim Options:Lexus offered various trim options for the LS460, including the standard LS460, the sportier LS460L, and the luxurious LS460L Sport Package. These trim levels differed in terms of their exterior styling, interior features, and performance capabilities.
Exterior Dimensions Comparison
Here is a table comparing the exterior dimensions of the 2009 Lexus LS460 to its competitors:
| Vehicle | Length (in) | Width (in) | Height (in) | Wheelbase (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 Lexus LS460 | 202.4 | 74.6 | 57.5 | 117.3 |
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class | 203.6 | 74.4 | 58.4 | 124.2 |
| 2009 BMW 7 Series | 202.3 | 74.5 | 58.0 | 122.4 |
| 2009 Audi A8 | 200.8 | 74.6 | 57.5 | 118.9 |
Interior and Comfort
Stepping inside the 2009 Lexus LS460 is like entering a luxurious sanctuary. The interior is a symphony of premium materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and advanced technology, designed to provide an unparalleled level of comfort and refinement.
Interior Design and Materials
The LS460’s cabin exudes an air of sophistication, with its meticulously crafted interior design and use of high-quality materials. The dashboard is sculpted with flowing lines and elegant accents, creating a sense of spaciousness and refinement. Soft-touch leather adorns the seats, steering wheel, and door panels, offering a luxurious feel and a sense of comfort.
Real wood trim accents the dashboard and center console, adding a touch of warmth and elegance.
Seating Configurations and Comfort Features
The 2009 Lexus LS460 offers a spacious and comfortable seating experience for both the driver and passengers. The front seats are designed with a focus on ergonomics and support, featuring multiple adjustments for optimal comfort. Heated and ventilated seats are available, providing personalized comfort in various weather conditions.
The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom, with an optional rear entertainment system that includes individual screens for passengers.
Technology and Entertainment Features
The LS460 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology and entertainment features, designed to enhance the driving experience and keep passengers entertained. The navigation system provides detailed directions and real-time traffic updates, while the premium sound system delivers crystal-clear audio.
The optional Mark Levinson surround sound system elevates the audio experience to a whole new level.
Cargo Space and Practicality
Despite its luxurious interior, the 2009 Lexus LS460 offers a surprisingly practical cargo space. The trunk provides ample room for luggage and other items, with a split-folding rear seat that expands cargo capacity when needed. The spacious interior and well-designed cargo area make the LS460 a versatile vehicle suitable for both daily commutes and long road trips.
Performance and Handling
The 2009 Lexus LS460 is a luxurious sedan that offers a balance of performance and comfort. Its powerful engine and advanced suspension system provide a smooth and engaging driving experience, while its spacious interior and high-quality materials create a refined and relaxing environment.
Engine Specifications and Power Output, 2009 Lexus LS460
The 2009 Lexus LS460 is powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine that produces 380 horsepower and 367 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and responsive gear changes. The LS460 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, which is impressive for a car of its size and weight.
Driving Experience and Handling Characteristics
The 2009 Lexus LS460 offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. The suspension is tuned for a smooth ride, and the engine is quiet and refined at all speeds. The steering is precise and responsive, and the brakes are powerful and effective.
The LS460 handles well for a large sedan, with minimal body roll in corners.
Performance Comparison with Rivals
The 2009 Lexus LS460 is a strong performer in its class. It is comparable in performance to its rivals, such as the BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and Audi A8. The LS460 offers a balance of performance and comfort that is difficult to match in this segment.
Drivetrain Options and Fuel Efficiency
The 2009 Lexus LS460 is available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The rear-wheel drive model is more fuel-efficient, with an EPA rating of 16 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 19 mpg combined. The all-wheel drive model is slightly less fuel-efficient, with an EPA rating of 15 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined.
Safety Features
The 2009 Lexus LS460 was engineered with a comprehensive suite of safety features, aiming to provide maximum protection for occupants in the event of an accident. These features, combined with the car’s robust construction, contributed to its impressive safety ratings.
Safety Features
The 2009 Lexus LS460 boasted a wide range of safety features, including:
- Ten airbags: The LS460 came equipped with ten airbags, including dual front airbags, dual front side airbags, dual rear side airbags, driver’s knee airbag, and front and rear side curtain airbags. This comprehensive airbag system aimed to provide maximum protection for occupants in the event of a collision.
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS): The ABS system helped prevent wheel lock-up during braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control in emergency situations. This was a crucial safety feature for avoiding accidents, especially in slippery conditions.
- Electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD): EBD automatically adjusted the braking force to each wheel based on the vehicle’s load and road conditions, ensuring optimal braking performance and stability.
- Brake assist (BA): The BA system detected emergency braking situations and automatically increased braking force, helping to shorten stopping distances and improve overall safety.
- Vehicle stability control (VSC): VSC detected loss of traction and automatically applied brakes to individual wheels, helping to maintain stability and prevent skidding. This system was particularly useful in challenging driving conditions, such as slippery roads or sharp turns.
- Traction control (TRAC): TRAC helped prevent wheel spin during acceleration, especially on slippery surfaces, ensuring optimal traction and control.
- Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS): The TPMS alerted the driver if any tire was underinflated, helping to prevent tire blowouts and improve vehicle handling.
- Lexus Safety Connect: This optional system offered a suite of safety and security features, including automatic collision notification, emergency assistance, stolen vehicle location, and roadside assistance. In case of an accident, the system automatically contacted emergency services, providing vital information such as location and vehicle details.
Safety Ratings
The 2009 Lexus LS460 received top safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The NHTSA awarded the LS460 a five-star overall safety rating, while the IIHS gave it a Top Safety Pick designation.
The 2009 Lexus LS460, with its refined interior and powerful V8 engine, offered a luxurious driving experience. While it focused on comfort and sophistication, Lexus had already proven its performance prowess with the 1999 Lexus SC400 , a sporty coupe known for its sharp handling and impressive acceleration.
The LS460, however, aimed for a different audience, prioritizing a smooth and serene ride over outright speed, reflecting a shift in Lexus’s design philosophy.
These ratings highlighted the LS460’s excellent safety performance in various crash tests, demonstrating its commitment to occupant protection.
Comparison with Competitors
The 2009 Lexus LS460’s safety features were comparable to those offered by its competitors, such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the BMW 7 Series. All three luxury sedans offered advanced safety technologies, including multiple airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control.
However, the LS460’s comprehensive suite of safety features, combined with its high safety ratings, made it a strong contender in the luxury sedan segment.
Real-World Effectiveness
The effectiveness of the 2009 Lexus LS460’s safety features in real-world scenarios was supported by its excellent safety ratings and positive reviews from automotive experts and consumers. The comprehensive airbag system, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control were designed to mitigate the severity of accidents and protect occupants in various crash situations.
Additionally, the Lexus Safety Connect system provided peace of mind by offering emergency assistance and stolen vehicle recovery services.
Reliability and Maintenance
The 2009 Lexus LS460 is generally considered a reliable luxury sedan, known for its robust build quality and sophisticated engineering. However, like any vehicle, it’s not immune to potential issues, and regular maintenance is crucial to ensure its longevity and optimal performance.
Reliability History
The 2009 Lexus LS460 received a positive reliability rating from J.D. Power, earning an above-average score for its model year. This indicates that owners generally experienced fewer problems than average with their vehicles. However, there were some reported issues, particularly with the transmission and suspension.
Common Maintenance Requirements and Costs
Regular maintenance for the 2009 Lexus LS460 is essential for preserving its reliability and preventing costly repairs down the line. Here are some common maintenance requirements and associated costs:
- Oil Change:Every 5,000-7,500 miles. The cost can vary depending on the type of oil used and the location of the service, but expect to pay around $50-$100.
- Air Filter Replacement:Every 15,000-30,000 miles. The cost is typically around $20-$50.
- Spark Plug Replacement:Every 60,000-100,000 miles. The cost can range from $200-$400, depending on the type of spark plugs and labor costs.
- Brake Pad Replacement:Every 30,000-50,000 miles. The cost can vary depending on the type of brake pads and labor costs, but expect to pay around $200-$400.
- Transmission Fluid Flush:Every 60,000-100,000 miles. The cost can range from $200-$400, depending on the type of fluid and labor costs.
Reliability and Maintenance Costs Compared to Rivals
When comparing the 2009 Lexus LS460 to its rivals, such as the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, it generally fares well in terms of reliability and maintenance costs. While the Lexus may not be the absolute cheapest to maintain, it’s often considered more reliable than its German counterparts, which can translate to lower overall maintenance costs over time.
Tips for Maintaining the Car in Optimal Condition
Here are some tips for maintaining your 2009 Lexus LS460 in optimal condition:
- Follow the Recommended Maintenance Schedule:Adhering to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule is crucial for preventing major issues and ensuring the car runs smoothly.
- Use High-Quality Fluids and Parts:Using high-quality fluids and parts, such as genuine Lexus parts, can help to extend the life of your car and reduce the risk of premature wear and tear.
- Get Regular Inspections:Regular inspections by a qualified mechanic can help to identify potential problems early on, before they become more serious and expensive to fix.
- Address Problems Promptly:If you notice any unusual noises, vibrations, or warning lights, it’s important to address the problem promptly to prevent it from worsening.
Summary: 2009 Lexus LS460
The 2009 Lexus LS460 stands as a testament to Lexus’s commitment to delivering exceptional luxury and driving experiences. Its blend of performance, comfort, and advanced features made it a compelling choice for discerning drivers. Whether you’re seeking a refined daily driver or a statement of prestige, the LS460 offers a compelling package that continues to hold its own in the competitive luxury sedan market.
Its timeless design and reliable performance ensure that the 2009 LS460 remains a desirable and sought-after vehicle for those seeking a truly exceptional driving experience.