THE all-new Lexus LS 460 is an engineering masterpiece, a car that more than any other Lexus before it exemplifies the brand's famous "relentless pursuit of perfection" motto.

On sale now, the new LS is the fourth-generation of Lexus's luxury flagship. It combines meticulous attention to detail, such as components hidden deep within the engine being mirror-polished by hand, with a suite of advanced, world-first electronic safety systems to set new standards for refinement, luxury, comfort and safety.

As such, you could fill a book with the details, but here we highlight just a few key points that characterise the new LS 460.

These are not gimmicks, but ground-breaking technologies in safety and engineering that position the LS 460 well ahead of its rivals.

l Eight-speed automatic transmission - for better economy and refinement

  • Advanced pre-crash safety system - activates the safety features in the instant before impact to maximise passenger protection
  • Advanced obstacle detection system - radar detection of hazards ahead, by day and night
  • Driver monitoring system - sounds a warning and primes safety systems if the driver dozes off at the wheel
  • Emergency steering assist - helps the driver steer the right way in a skid
  • Intelligent powertrain control system: smooth, quiet, safer and more efficient engine power control
  • Rear pre-crash safety system - adjusts seatbelts and headrests just ahead of a rear-end smash, whether you're moving or parked, to protect against whiplash
  • VVT-iE electric camshaft activation - gives better engine efficiency over a wider speed range

The new LS 460 is available in three grades - LS 460, LS 460 SE and LS 460 SE-L. On-the-road prices are, respectively, £57,000, £65,000 and £71,000. All three models are group 18E for insurance.

The 375bhp V8 engine produces 493Nm of torque.

Carbon dioxide emissions are 261g/km, placing the LS 460 in Band G for vehicle excise duty.