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Which LS is front wheel drive?

The Lexus LS sedan is available in both rear-wheel drive and front-wheel drive configurations. The front-wheel drive variant of the Lexus LS is the LS 500h hybrid model. This hybrid version of the flagship Lexus sedan utilizes a front-wheel drive powertrain to deliver improved fuel efficiency compared to the rear-wheel drive LS 500 gasoline model.


Lexus LS Powertrain Options


The Lexus LS is Lexus' full-size luxury sedan, positioned as the brand's flagship model. It is available with the following powertrain configurations:



  • LS 500: Rear-wheel drive with a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine

  • LS 500h: Front-wheel drive with a hybrid powertrain consisting of a 3.5-liter V6 engine and electric motors


The rear-wheel drive LS 500 is the more common and popular variant, as rear-wheel drive is typically preferred for a large luxury sedan to provide a more engaging driving experience. However, the front-wheel drive LS 500h hybrid model is available for buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency over pure performance.


Benefits of Front-Wheel Drive in the Lexus LS 500h


The front-wheel drive layout of the Lexus LS 500h hybrid offers several advantages:



  • Improved Fuel Efficiency: The front-wheel drive configuration, combined with the hybrid powertrain, allows the LS 500h to achieve better fuel economy ratings compared to the rear-wheel drive LS 500.

  • Enhanced Traction: Front-wheel drive provides better traction and stability, especially in inclement weather conditions, as the weight of the engine is over the front wheels.

  • Increased Interior Space: The front-wheel drive layout allows for a more spacious cabin and trunk, as the drivetrain components take up less space compared to a rear-wheel drive setup.


While the rear-wheel drive LS 500 may offer a more engaging driving experience, the front-wheel drive LS 500h hybrid is a compelling option for luxury sedan buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency and practicality.

What is the difference between a 5.3 Vortec and a 5.3 LS?


Nothing really. Engines with the LS designation were typically set up for passenger car duty while the Vortec line was for GM's SUV and truck lines. In other words, the difference is in the marketing and where the various engines were going to be used across the GM brands.



Can I put an LS in a FWD car?


Yes, Even Front-Wheel-Drive LS Swaps Are Cool. One of the many reasons why Chevy LS V-8 swaps are so popular is size. Thanks to their pushrod design, they occupy a relatively small space, allowing them to fit into places no other V-8 could. This LS-swapped Volkswagen Beetle is a great example.



Is there a front-wheel drive LS?


Dubbed the LS4, the front-drive version of the LS V8 displaced 5.3 liters, but unlike the 5.3 liter V8 used in GM trucks it featured an aluminum block along with cylinder heads shared with the LS6.



How do I know if I have LS1 or LS2?


To get the right parts, you need to know which version of the LS you are starting with. The easiest way to tell the difference is to check the 8th digit of the VIN code on the original vehicle.



Is the LS3 FWD?


Bottom line, no such thing as a FWD LS3.



Can a V8 be FWD?


However, there have been rare instances of automakers combining FWD with brawny V8 powerplants, and while they never set the performance world alight, they've become cult classics thanks to their oddball nature.



What LS is FWD?


LS4
The LS4 was used in GM cars between 2005-09. It is unique because it was the only LS engine used in FWD vehicles.



Is the LS 460 front or rear-wheel drive?


rear-wheel drive
The AWD LS 460 and LS 460 L are powered by a 4.6-litre V8 mated to the world's first eight-speed automatic transmission, identical to their rear-wheel drive equivalent. The AWD versions will produce 357 horsepower and 344 lb. -ft. of torque.



Is the Lexus LS front-wheel drive?


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 a 5.3 a LS1 or LS2?


As an added distinction, we're sometimes asked, β€œIs a 5.3 an LS1 or LS2?” The answer to this one is neither. As we've described, all LS1s were 5.7s, while all LS2s were 6.0s.


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.