Ultimate in Luxury (Car)

The Lexus LS460 is a wonderfully comfortable car fitted with all mod cons, although not necessarily the most fun vehicle to drive

Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota, has long been trying to catch up with European luxury carmakers. The brand has been highly successful in the United States, where it usually tops customer-satisfaction surveys thanks to its high level of craftsmanship and reliability. But elsewhere, Lexus has not been able to repeat its US success story.

In turns out that customers in many countries are still loyal to German brands like BMW and especially Mercedes-Benz, which are considered as status symbols. With a lesser-known Lexus, it's a little more difficult for people to notice that you've "made it".

The latest Lexus model to be offered here is the flagship LS460, which, in my view, is the best candidate from the auto-maker to challenge the Germans, and beat them in several areas.

The LS460 unveiled last year is the fourth-generation LS. The company says the car is based on its "L-Finesse" design concept featured earlier in its concept vehicles. Nevertheless, there are traces of the BMW 7-Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class in certain areas, something for which Lexus has been heavily criticised by the media.

Fortunately the new design isn't all bad, giving the LS a sportier and elegant look. Compare it to the outgoing LS420, which is pretty boring to look at, and you can easily notice the dynamism that has been incorporated into the new car.

The fully imported LS460 is available in two versions: short wheelbase for Bt9.55 million and long wheelbase for Bt11.55 million.

I had the long-wheelbase version for several days and had a great time with the car. Despite its five-metre length, the LS460 is easy to drive. Everything is powered and offers a luxurious feel, whether it's the steering or the control buttons.