----------2009 Lexus LS 460----------
Engine
The Lexus LS 460�s engine has grown by .3 liters since the last generation. The unit is a modern V8, featuring 4 valves per cylinder and dual overhead camshafts. A technology that was launched on the Lexus LS 460 is Toyota�s VVT-iE. Designed for their luxury vehicles, this form of variable valve timing replaces the hydraulic actuator that advances and retards the intake camshaft timing with an electric motor. The switch from hydraulic to electric is much more precise, especially at lower engine speeds. All this technology produces a potent 380 HP and 367 lb-ft of torque from the 4.6 liter engine. With this much power the LS 460 never feels like it is out of breath.
Transmission
The Lexus LS 460 also features the first 8 speed automatic transmission found in a production vehicle. The driver has a few options when it comes to shifting. First, the car can be driven like a traditional fully automatic vehicle. Second, with the shift lever moved over into the gate closest to the driver, the transmission will hold the engine RPM longer before shifting into the next gear, giving extra oomph whenever required. The gearbox can also be shifted manually, like a modern semi-automatic, shifting up by pushing on the gear selector and dropping gears by pulling back on it. The fact that there are now 8 gears to choose from means that the Lexus LS 460 should never be searching for power and also helps with fuel economy.
Performance
The engine and transmission work together to propel the 4300 pound luxury vehicle from 0 to 60 MPH (0-100 km/h) in only 5.4 seconds, complete the quarter mile in only 13.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 130 MPH. All while the luxury limousine gets and estimated fuel economy of 16 miles per gallon in the city and 24 miles per gallon while cruising at highway speeds.
Competition
Priced at around $64,000 the base Lexus LS 460 is a bargain compared to German rivals and offers even more gadgets to aid the driver. The Mercedes Benz S Class starts at around $90,000, a new BMW 7 will cost at least $80,000 and the Audi A8 is priced around $74,000 for the base model. The Lexus LS 460 is also available with an extended wheelbase for a $10,000 premium and a rear bias all wheel drive system for only $4,000 more. Lexus also offers a luxury hybrid based on the LS, the vehicle combines a 5.0 liter gasoline burning V8 engine with an electric motor to generate a maximum output of 438 HP, the goal of this vehicle is hybrid performance and competes with 760s from BMW and V12 powered S Classes from Mercedes. The latest rumors to come out of Japan include talk of releasing a high performance F version of the LS; if the vehicle does go into production, expect Alpina and AMG owners to be caught quivering in their Gucci loafers. The Lexus LS 460 the best option for a buyer who wants all of the comfort and style found in the traditional German luxury limousine. 
----------2009 Lexus LS 460----------
Source: www.topspeed.com
