Driving the LS 400 on a racetrack, in addition to a wide assortment of public roads, generated several strong impressions, all of them positive.First, the new LS 400's performance is distinctly stronger than the original. Engineers have mined 10 more hp and 10 more lb.-ft. of torque from the silky 4.0-liter aluminum V8 engine, simultaneously reducing the engine's mass.
In fact, although the wheelbase is longer and the chassis has been stiffened, the entire vehicle is 209 lb. lighter than its predecessor.
This adds up to impressive acceleration. Lexus engineers claim a 0-to-60 mph time of about 7 seconds, which may be a trifle optimistic. On the other hand, even if the acceleration isn't quite that vigorous, it's clearly quicker than the previous car, which wasn't exactly sluggish.
And it's also more fuel efficient, by one mpg in the city and two on the highway, which means it continues to escape the gas-guzzler category.
A longer wheelbase and suspension refinements add up to better ride and handling, although here the distinctions are more subtle. The responses of the new LS 400 in racetrack handling maneuvers are a little more decisive, and its steering feel is a little more positive. The optional air suspension is also more responsive, thanks to extensive software improvements in the computer that governs the system.