Is the Lexus LS400 FWD or RWD?
The Lexus LS400 is rear-wheel drive (RWD).
As Lexus's first flagship sedan, introduced in 1989, the LS400 was built on a traditional front‑engine, rear‑drive platform designed to deliver refined handling and a balanced ride. It did not offer a factory all‑wheel‑drive option on its first-generation model.
Drivetrain fundamentals
Understanding the LS400’s drivetrain helps explain its driving character. The following core points describe the setup that defined this era of Lexus luxury sedans:
- Drivetrain layout: front‑engine, rear‑wheel drive (RWD)
- Powertrain: longitudinal 4.0‑liter V8 (the 1UZ‑FE)
- Transmission: four‑speed automatic
- All‑wheel drive availability: not offered on the LS400; AWD was not a factory option for this generation
These elements contributed to the LS400’s smooth, composed ride and classic luxury sedan handling characteristics that defined the model in its era.
Market context and legacy
In the broader Lexus lineup, later generations did introduce all‑wheel‑drive variants in some markets, but the first‑generation LS400 remained a dedicated rear‑wheel‑drive flagship. This choice aligned with its emphasis on refined highway cruising and predictable handling in a luxury package.
Summary
Answering the core question: the Lexus LS400 is rear‑wheel drive. It used a front‑engine, rear‑drive layout with a 4.0‑liter V8 and a four‑speed automatic transmission, and it did not offer a factory AWD option on this generation. For buyers seeking AWD in the Lexus flagship lineup, that option appeared in later generations, not in the LS400.
Is the Lexus FWD or RWD?
| Lexus IS | |
|---|---|
| Class | Compact executive car (D) |
| Layout | Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive Front-engine, all-wheel-drive |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Lexus GS 460/F (for IS 500 F Sport Performance) |
Is the LS400 FWD or RWD?
Type: Front engine, rear-wheel drive, five-passenger, luxury sedan.
Are all Lexus LS RWD?
LEXUS SEDANS WITH AWD
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. 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 a V6 or V8?
And the second-generation LS400 might be one of the most favored variants. Coming with a 4.0-liter V8 engine and plenty of premium features, there are good reasons why New Jersey car enthusiasts find themselves drawn to this vehicle.
