2008 Lexus LS 460 Review (video)

Talk about a conversation starter. Many a flagship car these days deliver requisite hardware like adaptive cruise control, collision avoidance radar and humongous audio systems- though only the Lexus LS460 can boast 8 gears, the ability to park itself, and a pricetag that's still in the 5-digit range.

The Lexus LS460 seeks only to satisfy, not to electrify.

It's a platform on which to show off the latest in high-tech and convenience that Toyota's premium division has been working on.

Features include power assisted doors and trunk, a keyless access system, adaptive lighting, hard-drive navigation and music storage, and voice command.

Gadgets Galore at $88,000
A 'hold' button on the steering wheel automatically keeps the car in place once you've come to a stop- even while in drive with the brakes released. It's fantastic in rush-hour traffic. The parking brake operates with the push of a button, and the wipers, lights and climate control are all fully automatic.

There's even a self-parking system that allows drivers to pre-select a spot via the backup camera and experience the vehicle backing in or parallel parking all by itself. It mostly works, most of the time- and you'll likely be the only person on your block that can parallel park an enormous sedan with no hands.

Perfectly assembled
LS's gadgets exist in a typical Lexus cabin- namely one that's perfectly assembled, opulently trimmed and lovely to look at. Attention to detail has ensured that leather meets the fingertips wherever they roam, and that every seam, line and panel is fit perfectly into place.

LED accent lights illuminate the seatbelt latches, door handles and centre console after dark, and the electroluminescent instruments deliver a clean, crisp and beautiful appearance. Thanks to the transponder key system, cabin and perimeter lighting even activates automatically as the driver approaches the car at night. A book could be written about the thoughtful little touches Lexus has added throughout this machine.

Outboard rear-seat occupants get the same treatment as those sitting up front.