November 2011

Vehicle Profile: The 2012 Lexus LS

With the introduction of the first LS model back in 1989, Lexus established a new class paradigm: Premium luxury sedans had to do more than simply pamper and protect – they needed to engage and enthrall. Today, the 2012 LS 460 lineup stretches the boundaries of the segment even further with heightened performance, cutting-edge technology and Lexus luxury that remains as second to none, regardless of price. The new 2012 Lexus LS line even offers an available Sport Package, featuring enhancements chosen to deliver knife-edge handling together with exceptional ride comfort.
 
Lexus offers four LS 460 models: LS 460 (MSRP $67,130), LS 460 AWD, long-wheelbase LS 460 L, and LS 460 L AWD (MSRP $74,980). There is also a hybrid version – The LS 600h L (MSRP $112,250) – but the focus here is on models equipped with the conventional powertrain.
 
In a true premium-class sedan, power delivery must be immediate and yet elegant. The 4.6-liter V8 in the LS 460 uses such innovative technology as dual fuel injection and electric motor-driven variable-valve timing (a world first) to produce 380 hp and propel the Lexus flagship from zero-to-60 mph in a sports car-quick 5.4 seconds. Credit the eight-speed automatic transmission for whisper-quiet shifts and incredible efficiency: The rear-drive LS 460 returns 24 mpg on the highway and qualifies for Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle II (ULEV II) certification.
 
For buyers facing harsh winter weather, or simply desiring an extra degree of year-round sure-footedness, the available all-wheel drive system features a lightweight TORSEN® limited-slip differential. Under normal driving conditions, the differential distributes torque between the axles at a rear-biased 40:60 ratio. Should wheels start to slip, the system can vary the distribution ratio between 30:70 and 50:50 to keep the LS 460 tracking true.
 
As expected, Lexus engineers tuned the suspension on the LS 460 for absolute civility over rough pavement and diamond-cut precision in cornering and emergency maneuvers. Buyers looking for an extra edge in handling can opt for the Sport Package, which augments the LS 460 RWD model with 19-inch, split 10-spoke forged alloy wheels, Brembo® brakes and an exclusive sport-tuned air suspension. The package also adds a special “aero” exterior-styling kit, perforated Black/Saddle leather interior with sport front seats, leather trim for the steering wheel and paddleshifters for manual control of the automatic transmission.
 
As with any Lexus vehicle, protecting occupants is paramount. The LS 460 line benefits from the latest in safety and driver-assistance technology. Active front headrests and a network of airbags work hand-in-glove with Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management, which governs a variety of systems including traction control, throttle response and the ABS brakes to keep you secure in the event of a collision or help prevent one altogether.
 
Value isn’t a word usually mentioned in flagship-sedan circles, but those familiar with the standard of luxury delivered by Lexus won’t be surprised that the driving environment in the LS 460 line easily rivals the best of its European competitors – including vehicles that cost upward of $200,000.
 
Once settled in, you’ll appreciate standard leather trim and real wood accents available in five color combinations, a 16-way power driver’s seat with dual-function lumbar support (12-way power and lumbar support for the front passenger), a center console display with integrated backup camera, a power tilt-and-slide moonroof and a wood-and-leather-trimmed steering wheel.
 
The list also includes High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps, Dual-swivel Adaptive Front Lighting, Bluetooth® connectivity with audio streaming, a USB/iPod port and a 10-speaker Premium Sound System with an in-dash six-disc CD changer and SiriusXM® Satellite Radio (comes with a 90-day trial subscription).
 
Appreciating your desire for choices, Lexus offers option packages and stand-alone features to help you personalize your LS 460. Highlights on the roster of options include semi-aniline leather trim, Intuitive Parking Assist, an HDD Navigation System with voice command and color LCD Display and a Mark Levinson® 450-watt Surround-Sound Audio System with 19 speakers.
 
For those who prefer to be driven, the long-wheelbase “L” models raise the luxury quotient with available highline items such as an Alcantara headliner, rear-door power sunshades, power rear seats with memory and lumbar massage, dual-zone rear air conditioning and rear audio controls.
 
Exclusive to the “L” models, the optional Executive Class Seating Package brings such opulent accessories as a rear-seat wood-trimmed table, a DVD Rear-Seat Entertainment System with power nine-inch screen, reclining massage seating and an ottoman passenger’s side seat.
 
There’s only one luxury flagship sedan that’s designed to satisfy all desires and thrive in all seasons while making value a priority: The new 2012 Lexus LS model line.

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Hendrick Lexus Charlotte
6025 East Independence Charlotte, NC 28212

 

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Hendrick Lexus Northlake
10830 Northlake Auto Plaza Blvd Charlotte, NC 28269