2008 Lexus GS 460 Overview

2008 Lexus GS 460 Overview

Overall User Score

5⁄5

Based on 1 review

Imagine a Lexus GS 430 on performance-enhancing drugs and you might come up with the brand new 2008 Lexus GS 460. Adding 50-hp and 20 ft-lbs of torque, the 4.6-liter V8 (borrowed from the LS 460) delivers 342-hp and 339 ft-lbs, with a 0-60 time of 5.4 seconds. It is paired with what Lexus touts as the first ever 8-speed sequential shift automatic transmission, with quicker shift changes.

The rear-wheel drive luxury sports sedan boasts a whole host of sports performance-oriented technology, such as the Active Stabilizer System (to cut down on body sway), Vehicle Dyamics Integrated Management (to anticipate and adjust for skidding), and Adaptive Variable Suspension, which automatically chooses the best suspension according to road and driving situations. The performance tires on the standard 18-inch alloy wheels can be replaced with optional run-flat tires, though these are not popular with drivers. Like its GS 350 cousin, the new 460 receives styling updates to match its performance ambitions. These include a stretched out chrome grille, quad headlights, and a sloping fastback-like rear roofline. The design is carried over into the cabin, with updated alloy-trimmed gauges, a new steering wheel, and real wood trim.

The 2008 GS 460 seats up to five in two rows, with leather upholstery and standard ventilated seats not found on the 350. Power is not only represented in the upgraded engine, but also in the interior features. Power front seats with memory settings, power steering, power tilt and telescopic wheel, power-folding mirrors, and a power trunk release. The 460 comes with a complete array of luxury equipment, including a 6-CD player with MP3 playback, which can be boosted to a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system that earns rave reviews from owners.

Though not yet rated for safety, the 2008 GS 460 comes with ABS brakes, dual front-side, side curtain, and knee airbags, traction and stability control, a tire monitor, and mirrors with turn signals. Adaptive lights bend to light up curves, and standard foglights and xenon HID add extra security. Early reviews praise the added horsepower and acceleration performance, along with the high-end quality build and materials. A small 12.7 cubic foot trunk and cramped backseat are the major complaints.