Introduced in 2008 as a hybrid complement to the LS460 and extended-length LS460 L, the 2009 LS600h L has the world's first V8, full-time all-wheel-drive hybrid drivetrain. Its performance is similar to that of the top German luxury cars and competes with the most exclusive V12 "super sedans" from Mercedes-Benz and BMW. It meets the Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) emissions standard by further reducing tailpipe emissions this model year. The 2009 model has an average combined fuel economy (city and highway) of 21 mpg.