Does the Lexus IS300 have AWD?
The short, practical answer is that it depends on the model year and market. In the United States, the traditional IS300 was offered as rear-wheel drive and did not come standard with factory all-wheel drive. In other regions and across later IS generations, drivetrain options vary, and buyers sometimes encounter AWD on related IS models rather than on an exact IS300 badge. Always verify the specific vehicle’s documentation to confirm its drivetrain.
A concise look at how AWD has appeared across the IS300 lineage
To understand where AWD fits, it helps to map the IS300’s drivetrain options by era. The IS badge has evolved over time, and AWD availability has not been uniform across all markets or generations.
- First generation IS300 (roughly 2001–2005 in the U.S.): rear-wheel drive was standard, with no factory AWD option offered in that market.
- Second generation and beyond (2006–2013 and later): the lineup shifted to IS 250/IS 350 in many markets, with AWD commonly available on those models. The IS300 name itself was not the primary AWD carrier in the U.S. during this period.
- Recent and current regional variations: in some regions, IS300 badges have appeared alongside turbo or hybrid variants, but all-wheel drive is usually associated with other IS trims (such as AWD versions of IS 350) rather than a universal AWD IS300.
In short, if AWD is a priority, you’re more likely to encounter it on other IS models and trims rather than a pure IS300 in the U.S., though market-specific configurations can differ. Always check the exact vehicle’s paperwork to confirm.
How to verify AWD on an IS300 you’re considering
If you’re shopping for a used Lexus IS300 and want to be sure about its drivetrain, use these steps to confirm AWD.
- Check the VIN and the vehicle’s build sheet or window sticker for drivetrain options. Look for explicit mentions of AWD or 4WD.
- Inspect the undercarriage and drivetrain components for AWD hardware such as a center transfer case, front differential, or additional driveshaft.
- Look for AWD badges or model-specific nomenclature on the exterior or interior, though note that some markets did not badge AWD explicitly.
- Request the original brochure or dealer documentation to confirm the factory drivetrain configuration.
- Test drive in conditions that require traction (wet, light snow, or gravel) to observe how the system engages, if available.
Verifying AWD requires a combination of paperwork review and physical inspection. If in doubt, contact a Lexus dealership or obtain a detailed vehicle history report that includes the drivetrain specification.
Related considerations
Beyond drivetrain, consider that AWD typically pairs with other performance features in the IS lineup. If you’re aiming for all-weather capability, also evaluate tires, maintenance history, and the condition of the suspension and braking systems, as these impact overall traction and reliability just as much as the drivetrain does.
Summary
Across its history, the Lexus IS300’s availability with AWD has varied by generation and market. In the United States, the IS300 has primarily been rear-wheel drive, with AWD more commonly found on other IS models or in different regional configurations. When shopping, verify the exact drivetrain using the VIN, window sticker, and dealer documentation to avoid assumptions based on badge alone.
Does the IS 300 come in AWD?
Yes, the Lexus IS 300 is available in both all-wheel drive (AWD) and rear-wheel drive (RWD) configurations. The IS 300 AWD typically comes with a 260-horsepower V6 engine, while the IS 300 RWD is powered by a 241-horsepower turbocharged engine in the United States.
- IS 300 AWD: Comes standard with a 260-horsepower V6 engine and all-wheel drive, which continuously monitors road conditions to optimize traction.
- IS 300 RWD: Comes standard with a 241-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.
Is the Lexus IS 300 FWD or RWD?
The Lexus IS 300 can be either rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), depending on the specific model and year. The RWD version uses a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the AWD version is equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine.
| Feature | RWD | AWD |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 241 hp | 260 hp |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 6-speed automatic |
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Is the Lexus IS 300 4 wheel drive?
Rear-wheel drive comes standard on the IS 300 and 350, but all-wheel drive is available on each trim level.
What models of Lexus are AWD?
Lexus AWD Models: Sedans & Coupes
- 2023 Lexus IS. 2023 Lexus IS 300 AWD. 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD.
- 2024 Lexus ES. 2024 Lexus ES 250 AWD. 2024 Lexus ES 250 F Sport Design AWD.
- 2023 Lexus LS. 2023 Lexus LS 500 AWD. 2023 Lexus LS 500 F Sport AWD.
- 2023 Lexus RC. 2023 Lexus RC 300 AWD. 2023 Lexus RC 350 AWD.
