Is LS400 AWD?
The LS400 is not an all-wheel-drive model. It was produced as a rear-wheel-drive sedan throughout its run, and there was no factory AWD option offered for the LS400. For buyers seeking all-wheel traction in a Lexus flagship, later generations introduced AWD variants.
To understand the question in context, this article examines the LS400’s drivetrain history, why AWD wasn’t offered on that generation, and how Lexus expanded all-wheel-drive availability in its flagship lineup in subsequent years.
Drivetrain roots of the LS400
Understanding the LS400’s setup helps explain why AWD was not part of the original formula, and how the brand’s approach to traction evolved in later flagship models.
- The LS400, introduced at the end of the 1980s, was built as a rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan; AWD was not offered as a factory option for this generation.
- Powertrain basics: a 4.0-liter V8 paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission defined the LS400’s drivetrain, emphasizing smooth highway performance and rear-wheel stability.
- Market and model consistency: across major markets (including the U.S. and Japan), there was no official LS400 AWD variant; some aftermarket or specialist conversions exist in rumor but are not factory-supported.
In summary, the LS400’s identity was built around rear-wheel drive, with the drivetrain tuned for refined highway cruising rather than all-terrain or all-weather traction. The pursuit of AWD would come later in the Lexus flagship lineage.
AWD in the Lexus flagship lineup after the LS400
To situate the LS400 in the broader history, it’s helpful to see how Lexus introduced and expanded all-wheel drive in its flagship sedans after the first generation.
- Later flagship generations offered AWD: AWD variants became available on the LS430 and more prominently on the LS460 family, expanding traction options for the flagship lineup.
- Market and trim variations: AWD availability varied by region and model year, with some markets offering AWD as a standard or optional feature depending on the trim and generation.
- Current context: Modern Lexus flagship sedans (including recent LS models) commonly offer AWD options, but the original LS400 never included an official factory AWD version.
For shoppers today, this means that while the LS400 itself is RWD, the modern Lexus flagship line provides AWD options across several generations if all-wheel traction is important.
What to verify when shopping for a used LS
Because model years and markets differ, use these checks to confirm drivetrain and avoid confusion between LS400 and later AWD variants.
- Check the model year and designation: confirm you’re looking at an LS400 (early-generation flagship) and not a later AWD-equipped LS model.
- Inspect the drivetrain labels and VIN/service records: LS400 should show rear-wheel drive; AWD badges or drivetrain codes indicate a later generation with AWD.
- Confirm warranty and documentation: if you’re evaluating an AWD-equipped Lexus flagship, review the owner’s manual and window sticker to verify the drivetrain.
These steps help ensure you’re assessing the correct generation and drivetrain configuration when evaluating a used Lexus flagship.
Summary
The Lexus LS400 was designed and released as a rear-wheel-drive flagship sedan, with no factory AWD option offered for that generation. AWD became available in later flagship models (notably the LS430 and LS460 families) across various markets, reflecting Lexus’ broader shift toward enhanced all-weather capability. If AWD is a priority, prospective buyers should focus on those later generations rather than the original LS400.
Is a 1996 Lexus LS400 RWD?
For the first four generations, all LS models featured V8 engines and were predominantly rear-wheel-drive.
Did the Lexus LS come in AWD?
LEXUS SEDANS WITH AWD
The LS series – base LS 500, the LS 500h (hybrid), and the LS 500 F Sport – all come with a choice of rear-wheel or all-wheel drive.
Is the LS400 FWD or RWD?
Type: Front engine, rear-wheel drive, five-passenger, luxury sedan.
What drivetrain is the LS400?
Drivetrain
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic |
|---|---|
| Drive type | Rear wheel drive |
