2009 Lexus LS 460 AWD Review

Cars are like people -- some are very assertive and boast a strong personality, while others hide their skills under a discreet exterior… despite various efforts to stand out. I can’t help but think about that every time I drive a Lexus.

This prestigious Japanese offering banks on comfort and refinement, and from that standpoint, it’s a definite success.

The Japanese brand offers exceptional machines with high levels of quality, reliability and refinement. However, they convey an aura of luxury and opulence virtually devoid of pure driving excitement. That’s especially true in the case of the 2009 Lexus LS 460, the flagship sedan that’s even more comfortable than my living room furniture but feels just as relaxed on the road.

Dynamic precision
Many of you are probably fuming right about now: "How dare he take such jabs at a genuine limousine like the LS?" Let me be perfectly clear: this car overflows with qualities. It’s just that the driving experience fails to arouse my senses.

For sure, though, if I’d set out to cross half the continent or simply enjoy a long, leisurely cruise on boulevards, the LS 460 would be one of my first picks. Not only is it ultra-comfortable and lavishly appointed (more on that later), but it also drives by itself (I’m only half-kidding). The smooth 380-horsepower 4.6-litre V8 tucked underneath the hood is both potent and flexible. When you hammer the throttle, you can feel the engine’s desire to deliver, but the resulting acceleration is all subdued and quiet. It’s almost as if the car didn’t want to disturb you.

I could say the same thing about handling. While cornering precision must be commended, the driver is unable to enjoy it and feel connected to the road because of the numb, over-assisted steering. If you’re looking for fun, this isn’t the place.

On the other hand, the brakes perform flawlessly, the driving position is beyond reproach and the slick automatic transmission operates under the radar.

Overall, I would compare the driving experience of the Lexus LS 460 to dipping your hands in tepid water -- no big shock and no unpleasant feeling; just enough information to realize you’re sitting behind the wheel and actually driving this thing.

The smooth 380-horsepower 4.6-litre V8 tucked underneath the hood is both potent and flexible.