Lexus Unveils Fourth-generation LS 460 Flagship Sedan at Detroit

TOKYO, January 10, 2006 — Lexus unveiled yesterday (January 8 in the United States) the all-new 2007 LS 460 and the company's first-ever, long-wheelbase model, the LS 460L, during a press conference at the 2006 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), which takes place in Detroit from January 8 to 22*.

"The Lexus LS 460 was designed to expand the definition of the full-size prestige luxury sedan," said Jim Press, president and COO of Toyota Motor Sales.  "The new LS is the product of an advanced production process developed specifically for this vehicle with remarkable new levels of accuracy, refinement, precision and craftsmanship.  Considering our record for quality over the last 17 years, that's quite a statement," he added.

Seventeen years after its initial launch in Detroit, the redesigned LS now combines new levels of performance, sophistication, contemporary styling and luxury refinements.

"During the next few months, we'll provide more details about the all-new Lexus LS 460 as we prepare to launch this highly anticipated sedan," said Press.  "If you like the way the LS looks, you'll be even more impressed when you hear about its advanced safety and innovative technology," he added.

The 2007 Lexus LS 460 is targeted for sale beginning in the fall of 2006.

*Press days: 8-10; Invitation-only days: 11-12; Charity Preview day: 13; public admission: 14-22

Vehicle Outline

High-output V8, World's First Eight-Speed Transmission
The LS will be powered by an all-new, highly advanced 4.6-liter V8 engine that will produce approximately 380 horsepower and 370 pound-feet of torque.  Combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission—a world first—the LS 460 will travel from zero to sixty miles-per-hour in less than 5.5 seconds.  With that level of performance, the new LS will achieve an impressive combined city/highway fuel efficiency that is estimated to be in the mid-20s. Lexus also anticipates receiving an Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV II) rating.

Excellent Driving Performance
The new LS is built on a sophisticated platform that maintains a delicate balance between ride comfort and responsive handling.  The completely redesigned multi-link suspension system includes an all-new, variable-gear-ratio, electronic power-steering system and a next-generation Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system.

VDIM is an all-new system that integrates and manages a new Electronically Controlled Brake system (ECB), Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS), Electric Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), ABS, Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and engine torque via the electronically controlled throttle.

Monitoring a variety of sensors, the system is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and then help correct the situation with a combination of braking, throttle and steering control in a way that’s essentially transparent to the driver.  Data is gathered from more sources and processed earlier and faster than previous designs, helping to make VDIM less obtrusive yet highly effective.

First Long-wheelbase Sedan
At nearly 203 inches, the long-wheelbased LS 460L provides an even higher level of comfort and convenience features along with some of the most advanced technology ever offered in a production automobile.  The four-passenger compartment of the LS 460L transports its rear-seat passengers in an environment whose luxury accoutrements closely resemble to that of a private jet.

Luxury: Redefined by Lexus
Intelligent technology and emotionally provacative design is clearly evident throughout the beautifully appointed cabin.  The extra touches of luxury and comfort include a heated steering wheel and seats swathed in one of four tones of semi-aniline leathers that match one of three coordinating wood-grain trims.

Rear occupants can relax and enjoy power reclining seats equipped with power leg rests and even a massage feature.  The new LS even offers body-heat sensors that help maintain the perfect temperature for all occupants.  A fold-away table matched to the interior wood grain provides ample work space for rear passengers.  The LS also features a nine-inch, headliner-mounted, rear-screen monitor along with an all-new 19-speaker Mark Levinson® audio system that provides a true theater-level entertainment experience.  Additional luxury convenience features include a power rear-door closer and a powered trunk lid.

New Lexus Design Direction
Over the last two years, Lexus has developed a new styling philosophy that it calls "L-finesse".  This new design language rests upon the inherent contrast between simplicity and elegance—and the beauty of achieving a balance between the two.  Simplicity, in form and function, reflects styling that is uncluttered and void of extraneous elements.  Lexus elegance, inside and out, avoids exaggeration by prioritizing understated luxury that is intriguing, subtle, seamless and slightly surprising.

Lexus imbued this new styling direction in the development of the 2006 GS and IS series sport sedans.  The new LS takes the L-finesse visual philosophy to an even higher level, revealing a family resemblance in the new Lexus sedans, and one that conveys elegance, refinement and a strong emotional appeal.

2007 Lexus LS 460 Specifications