AWD Lexus LS460 to Premiere at Moscow Motor Show

Lexus has announced the addition of a permanent all-wheel-drive drivetrain to its LS460 large luxury sedan, and will debut the all-paw model at the Moscow International Motor Show at the end of this month. Sales are slated to begin in November.

Developed from the LS 600h's AWD system, the LS 460's all-paw mechanism utilises a Torsen limited-slip centre differential to distribute torque between the front and rear axles. Torque bias is set at 40:60 front to rear, however Lexus's press release makes no mention of whether that ratio varies according to driver input or road conditions.

Tech specs are still non-existent, however we're sure we'll get the full scoop once the unveiling is over and done with on August 28. By then we should know whether the AWD system also comes paired with the 8-speed gearbox from the LS 600h, how much it costs to option it, how much of a performance penalty (or gain) the weighty system inflicts upon the LS 460 and when we can see it in Australian showrooms. Stay tuned.

World Premiere of the Lexus LS 460 All-Wheel Drive at the 2008 Moscow International Motor Show

On 26th August, the new LS 460 All-Wheel Drive will make its world premiere at this year’s Moscow International Motor Show.

The LS 460’s outstanding performance, sure-footed dynamic abilities and advanced active safety systems have been further strengthened by the addition of permanent all-wheel drive.

The all-wheel drive system is a three differential configuration featuring a highly compact TORSEN® Limited Slip Differential (LSD) – shared with the LS 600h - which distributes drive torque between the front and rear axles with a 40:60 rear axle bias in torque distribution.

The LS 460 AWD will be on sale as from November.

Also on display at the 2008 Moscow Motor Show are the stunning LF-A super sports car concept, the IS F high-performance sedan, and the Lexus Hybrid Drive range.

Today, Lexus remains the first - and only - premium automotive manufacturer to offer acomprehensive hybrid model range comprising the RX 400h, the world’s first hybrid SUV; the GS 450h, the performance hybrid sedan; and the peerless LS 600h flagship.