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Is Lexus LS 400 RWD?

Yes, the Lexus LS 400 is a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) luxury sedan. The LS 400 was Lexus' flagship model when it was first introduced in 1989, and it has maintained a RWD layout throughout its production history.


Lexus LS 400 Overview


The Lexus LS 400 was Lexus' first model and was designed to compete with established luxury sedans from German automakers like Mercedes-Benz and BMW. One of the key features of the LS 400 was its rear-wheel-drive layout, which was seen as more prestigious and performance-oriented compared to front-wheel-drive luxury cars at the time.


The LS 400 was powered by a 4.0-liter V8 engine that produced 250 horsepower, which was considered very powerful for a luxury sedan in the late 1980s. The RWD configuration allowed for better weight distribution and handling dynamics compared to front-wheel-drive competitors.


Why Rear-Wheel-Drive?



  • Rear-wheel-drive is considered more suitable for high-performance and luxury vehicles, as it provides better weight balance and driving dynamics.

  • RWD allows for more precise steering and handling, as the front wheels are only responsible for steering, while the rear wheels provide the driving force.

  • Lexus wanted the LS 400 to have a more prestigious and sporty driving character, which the RWD layout helped to achieve.

  • RWD is often associated with higher-end, more powerful vehicles, which aligned with Lexus' goal of positioning the LS 400 as a true luxury flagship model.


The Lexus LS 400's rear-wheel-drive layout has remained a key part of the model's identity throughout its production, as it has helped to differentiate the LS from its front-wheel-drive luxury sedan competitors and provide a more engaging driving experience for owners.

Is the LS400 front wheel drive?


For the first four generations, all LS models featured V8 engines and were predominantly rear-wheel-drive.



Is Lexus is RWD or FWD?


Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2025 IS has three engine options: a 241-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the IS300, a 311-hp V-6 in the IS350, and a 472-hp V-8 in the IS500. The IS300 and IS350 can be had with all-wheel drive; the IS500 is rear-drive only.



Is the Lexus LS fwd or RWD?


Rear-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional; a 10-speed automatic transmission is standard.



Is LS400 reliable?


Especially one built by an auto manufacturer known for reliability, like Lexus. The second-gen LS400 benefits from the 1UZ-FE V8 engine. This powertrain is known for being able to achieve extremely high mileage and remain reliable while doing so. The power output is around 260 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque.



Is Lexus LS400 rear-wheel drive?


Its newly formed premium marque came out of the gate with the LS400. It was a big RWD sedan powered by an advanced 4.0-liter V-8, much like the one recently sold on eBay in Orlando, Fla.



What does LS stand for in LS400?


LS stands for Luxury Sedan. The original LS 400 – the car that launched Lexus back in 1989 – was the work of 60 designers, 1,400 engineers, 2,300 technicians and over 200 support workers. It was billed as the finest luxury car in the world by parent company Toyota as well as the motoring press.



Is the Lexus LS 430 front or rear-wheel drive?


rear-wheel-drive
Body style/layout: The Lexus LS 430 is a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, large luxury sedan with a traditional notchback trunk.



Is Lexus GS 400 rear-wheel drive?


The GS featured six-cylinder engines and rear-wheel drive, with V8 engines offered for all generations.



Does LS mean V8?


The Luxury Sport Small Block Chevy Engine
The LS or Luxury Sport engine began as a V8 gas engine, and the LS name came from the code “LS1” used by Chevrolet to designate the Chevy Corvette's third generation engine. Before the small block appeared in the Corvette, Chevy used the CL or Custom Luxury engine.



What Lexus models are RWD?


Rear-wheel drive comes standard on the IS 300 and 350, but all-wheel drive is available on each trim level. On the GS, only rear-wheel drive is available on either trim of the 300, while the 350's two trims have a choice of RWD or AWD.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.