The SC 400 débuted on 1 June 1991 in the United States as a 1992 model. The SC 400's 4.0 L V8 "1UZ-FE", the same engine as used in the LS 400, was reported to have cost over in research and development. The engine sits behind the front axles, which makes it a front mid engine rear wheel drive vehicle. The SC 400 was honored as the "Motor Trend" Import Car of the Year for 1992. It also made "Car and Driver" magazine's Ten Best list from 1992 through 1996.