2009 Lexus LS 600h L - Photo Gallery

In prestige, the LS 600h L lags behind the German rivals, with a big caveat: In celebrity circles, the LS 600h is instantly recognized, and its green reputation is the best.

Otherwise, these three German rivals to the 2009 Lexus LS 600h L are about the same size, but in the case of the Audi and Mercedes-Benz, both have large-displacement 12-cylinder engines and rear-wheel drive.

The A8 L 6.0 offers a solar-powered ventilated sunroof, a personal refrigerator, and an acclaimed Bang & Olufsen sound system that's perhaps the best in this class.

Both the S-Class and the 7-Series offer optional night-vision systems that help illuminate the road, especially to spot animals up ahead.

The LS 600h L's powertrain has all-wheel drive, which makes it a bit more ideal in some weather conditions, and it gets substantially better fuel economy than any of those rivals.

Atop the guzzler list here is the Mercedes-Benz S600, which has a downright sinful fuel economy rating of 11 mpg in the city.

The LS 600h L's city rating is nearly double that, at 20 mpg.

The 7-Series has just been redesigned, with an even more beautiful interior; for now, it’s only offered in V-8 750Li trim.

Each of these sedans has similarly expansive backseat space and offers an extensive list of over-the-top luxury features that cater to the front and the backseat occupants.