Is the LS400 FWD or RWD?
The LS400 is rear-wheel drive (RWD).
When Lexus launched the LS400 in 1989 as its flagship sedan, it came with a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout designed for refined refinement and balanced handling. It relied on a 4.0-liter V8 and a traditional automatic transmission, and there was no factory front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive option offered for the LS400 during its production run.
Drivetrain fundamentals
Layout and power delivery
The LS400 employs a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration. Power from the V8 is sent to the rear wheels through a conventional automatic transmission, a setup chosen to emphasize ride comfort and a traditional luxury-sedan feel.
Transmission and dynamics
Equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 and a smooth automatic, the LS400 prioritizes quietness and linear acceleration over sporty response, aligning with its luxury-brand mission during the 1990s.
Availability and market history
All-wheel drive and variants
There was no factory all-wheel-drive option for the LS400 in its production run (1989–2000). Later Lexus flagship models introduced AWD options, but the LS400 itself remained rear-wheel drive throughout its generation.
What this means for owners and enthusiasts
For buyers considering a used LS400, understanding the drivetrain helps in assessing maintenance needs and driving expectations. The rear-wheel-drive layout affects tire wear, handling characteristics in slippery conditions, and the kinds of replacement components you’ll encounter.
Key takeaways for quick reference:
- Drivetrain: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive (RWD).
- Transmission: Four-speed automatic transmission.
- AWD availability: Not offered on the LS400.
- Later generations: Some LS models after the LS400 introduced AWD options.
In short, if all-wheel-drive capability is a primary requirement, you would look to later Lexus LS generations rather than the LS400.
Summary
The Lexus LS400 remains a quintessential example of a late-1980s to 1990s luxury sedan with a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. It delivered smooth, quiet cruising and refined ride quality, but it did not offer factory all-wheel drive. Understanding this helps buyers and enthusiasts set expectations for performance, maintenance, and compatibility with winter driving conditions.
Is the LS400 front or rear-wheel drive?
rear-wheel drive
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 |
Is the Lexus FWD or RWD?
The Lexus IS is available in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, depending on the model and trim. Many Lexus IS models come standard as RWD, with AWD as an available option for certain trims.
- Rear-wheel drive (RWD): The base IS 300 is rear-wheel drive, with an optional all-wheel drive version also available. The IS 350 RWD comes with an eight-speed transmission.
- All-wheel drive (AWD): Models like the IS 300 AWD and the IS 350 F Sport AWD are available with all-wheel drive. The AWD system automatically distributes power between the front and rear axles for enhanced traction.
Is the Lexus LS FWD or RWD?
Rear-wheel drive
The 2025 Lexus LS is available with two powertrains. The entry-level LS 500 packs a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine (416 horsepower, 442 lb-ft of torque) paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is available.
