1996 Lexus LS Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The Lexus LS 400 was left unchanged for 1996, after a complete redesign for the prior model year. The new LS now featured a more powerful...
The Lexus LS 400 was left unchanged for 1996, after a complete redesign for the prior model year. The new LS now featured a more powerful engine, a smoother transmissions, larger brakes, and a more spacious and luxurious interior. The LS base price continued to steadily creep upward, but price never seemed to deter buyers. LS sales had steadily increased despite the availability of several new Lexus models, including the LX sport utility which aimed to insert LS luxury into a capable 4x4. By this time, the LS was the best selling flagship luxury sedan in the United States. Led by a powerful 4.0 liter V-8, the 3600 pound LS sped from 0 to 60 in 7.4 seconds and turned the quarter mile in 15.5. The cast aluminum block engine produced 260 horsepower and 270 pound feet of torque, while consuming premium fuel at a reasonable rate of 19/25 mpg. The 4-speed automatic transmission remains, but larger brakes had been added to counterbalance increased engine power. All LS 400s were rear wheel drive. Owners and reviewers continued to applaud the build quality of the LS 400, and many were challenged to find a fault. If one was to nitpick, the ride quality and smooth power delivery left the occasional driver feeling that the car could provide more excitement. Admittedly, a quiet comfortable ride and beyond predictable reliability could get a bit boring.
What owners say
"Overall, the 1996 Lexus LS 400 earns high praise for its comfort, performance, and reliability. Owners love the luxurious feel, smooth driving experience, and impressive sound system. Many appreciate the enduring quality and style despite the car's age. However, some have reported minor issues, such as a malfunctioning speedometer and heating problems, but these have not significantly detracted from their overall satisfaction."
Great family Luxury car! Great acceleration, handling and speed!
December 19, 2007The 1996 Lexus LS 400 is one of the most reliable cars on the road. For a 26 year old car, it drives like a dream. The height of luxury in 1996, the car still feels fresh with its classic design and amenities. Does it do everything a brand new car could do? No. Does it need to? Also no. Amazing car.
May 13, 2022I've owned this LS 400 since 1996 and it has been a fabulous car - comfortable, great to drive, fuel efficient and with a great Nakamichi stereo and CD player. It has always been incredibly reliable from a sevice standpoint. Excellence and comfort throughout.
April 5, 2013What owners say
Great family Luxury car! Great acceleration, handling and speed!
December 19, 2007The 1996 Lexus LS 400 is one of the most reliable cars on the road. For a 26 year old car, it drives like a dream. The height of luxury in 1996, the car still feels fresh with its classic design and amenities. Does it do everything a brand new car could do? No. Does it need to? Also no. Amazing car.
May 13, 2022I've owned this LS 400 since 1996 and it has been a fabulous car - comfortable, great to drive, fuel efficient and with a great Nakamichi stereo and CD player. It has always been incredibly reliable from a sevice standpoint. Excellence and comfort throughout.
April 5, 2013This car runs flawlessly! It is 18 years old and has never has one issue -- it's needed maintenance as all cars need, but I've never had any issues at all. It's quiet, balanced, well made, quality, well equipped, easy to drive, plenty of space, comfortable, great visibility. Seriously, I don't know how Lexus could have built a better car! And, I doubt there's ever been a better car! This car will last another 20 years!
April 27, 2014My '96 LS400 has been a great vehicle. I still drive her on a daily basis and have absolutely no reason to get rid of her. The only "repair" I have had was this year(2014) when the fuel pump went out on me. Wow, Lexus can't make a fuel pump last for more than 183K miles 18 years later?, lol. Great Great vehicle!
January 27, 2014Very comfortable! The ultimate luxury! Very smooth and feels very safe! Takes command of the road! Very powerful and reliable. Nice sound system. Loaded to the hilt. Even has a tool and a safety kit! Full size spare tire. Love It!
February 16, 2012The 1996 LS 400 drives like a dream. It was the a luxury vehicle back in the late 1990’s, and even though the car is 26 years old, the style still looks amazing today. The seats are comfortable, the stereo is amazing, the sunroof is huge. Rear wheel drive is a plus. It handles like a smaller car with precise steering and braking. No body roll whatsoever. Impressive fit and finishes all around.
May 7, 2022This is best car I have ever owned. It has 186K on it. the ride is great. did have to replace transmission. and power tilt has gone out. Still is a great car. I would recomend this car without reservation.
August 18, 2009Our Lexus was kept in prestine condition. Still looks brand new inside and out. Very quiet and comfortable ride. The only complaint is that sometimes the speedometer doesn't work for awhile but then it comes back on.
January 31, 2008still drives as it did when pruchased, amazing quality and handling and for a V8 it is excellent with gas mileage as well.
May 3, 2008Trims & specs
Base MSRP $53,395 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
