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By Autotropolis Editors
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Strengths: |
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Ultra luxurious and loaded with high-tech amenities; smooth, powerful V8; excellent interior ergonomics and comfort; strong value for the money. |
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Changes: |
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On the heels of a successful debut in 2007, the 2008 LS 460 incorporates few changes. The car is still available in either the base LS460 or the long-wheelbase LS 460 L model, and the L now offers an optional $2,985 Adaptive Variable Air Suspension package that constantly adjusts damping rates to provide the best possible blend of comfort and handling. The system is automatic or can be adjusted by the driver. The option also includes 19-inch wheels, upgraded brakes, and variable-ratio steering, which optimizes steering control based on the car's speed. A new color, Opaline Pearl, is available on both models.
Base prices increased by $500 to $61,500 for the LS 460 and $71,500 for the LS 460 L. |
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Value: |
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The 2008 Lexus LS 460 and LS 460 L offer buyers the superb build quality of Toyota, the luxury and comfort of Europe's finest sedans, and a level of technological sophistication not found on most vehicles in this class. While the base cars are equipped with enough standard luxury items to satisfy most discerning consumers, optional equipment ups the ante considerably in the competitive luxury sedan segment. |
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Overview: |
The 2007 LS 460 was voted World Car of the Year, a prestigious distinction the 2008 model certainly lives up to. Not only does it meet and even exceed levels of luxury, build, sophistication, and value when compared to cars from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, it sets the benchmark in the luxury class.
The LS 460 is an Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV) and meets strict standards for hydrocarbon emissions. The 380-horsepower 4.6L V8 with its variable valve timing is linked to the world's first eight-speed sequential-shift automatic transmission to seamlessly return 16 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.
Ample standard equipment includes a choice of three interior wood trims, ten-speaker premium sound system, 16-way power driver's seat, dual-zone climate control, SmartAccess keyless entry and start, and HID headlights.
Other than various luxury options available, the chief difference between the LS 460 and the LS 460 L is the overall length. The L adds nearly five inches to the wheelbase, which equates to five extra inches of rear passenger legroom and allows for some very special appointments.
Among them is the $12,675 Executive-Class Seating Package, which adds a rear fixed console, DVD rear-seat entertainment system, power rear sunshades and headrests, and a right rear seat recliner with leg rest and multi-function massager.
The base LS 460 can be configured with various Comfort and Navigation Packages, which add from $5,300 to $11,760 to the $61,500 base price. Both cars are available with Lexus's Intuitive Parking Assist, but only the L offers Advanced Parking, which essentially parallel parks the car for the driver. The feature is a stunning piece of innovation that no other manufacturer offers.
Safety systems are in keeping with the 2008 LS 460's level of refinement. Both models come standard with a host of air bags front, rear, and side, including front knee air bags.
Anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control are all standard as well. Additionally, both models can be ordered with Pre-Collision System (PCS), which predicts unavoidable collisions and sets seatbelt and brake systems in motion. Also available is Dynamic Radar Cruise Control that maintains a safe, pre-set distance between the car in front. The safety systems are a $2,850 option.
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