Is Lexus ES 350 4wd?
The short answer: No. The Lexus ES 350 is not offered with all-wheel drive; it is sold primarily as a front-wheel-drive sedan in its current generation and across recent model years.
Current drivetrain reality
In the latest generations, the ES 350 is configured as a front-wheel-drive sedan. It is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 and paired with an automatic transmission, with all-wheel drive not listed as an available option for the ES 350 in official U.S. specs. The hybrid alternative, the ES 300h, uses a separate powertrain and is also typically front-wheel drive.
What about older generations or other markets?
Historically, the ES line has prioritized front-wheel drive, and factory all-wheel drive has not been a prominent or widely offered option for the ES 350 in major markets such as the United States or Europe. If you are considering a specific year or regional market, check the exact specifications from the dealer or the official brochure for that model year, as there can be regional variations.
Alternatives within the Lexus family for AWD
If all-wheel drive is a priority, there are other Lexus models in the same family that offer AWD. Consider these options for AWD capability without stepping into a different brand:
- Lexus IS — available with AWD on select trims, offering a compact-sport sedan with all-wheel traction.
- Lexus LS — full-size luxury sedan with available AWD across multiple trims.
- Lexus RX and NX — SUVs that widely offer AWD and provide versatile all-season capability.
These alternatives let you retain Lexus comfort and reliability while gaining genuine all-wheel-drive capability.
Market variations and what to check
Always verify the exact drivetrain on a given ES 350 by checking the VIN and the dealer’s official specifications for the model year and market in question. While the ES lineup is largely FWD, certain years or regions may differ in their offerings. If AWD is a must-have, confirm availability before purchase and consider related Lexus models that provide AWD as standard or optional.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Lexus ES 350 does not come with factory all-wheel drive. For buyers requiring AWD, exploring other Lexus models such as the IS, LS, RX, or NX is advisable. Always confirm current specifications with a dealer for the exact year and market you’re considering.
Summary
The ES 350 is not offered with all-wheel drive in major markets. If AWD is essential, look to other Lexus models or verify year-by-year specs with a dealer to find the right balance of comfort, efficiency, and traction.
Is the Lexus 350 4 wheel drive?
The 2025 RX350 comes standard with a 275-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive; all-wheel drive is optional.
Is the Lexus es350 FWD or RWD?
The Lexus ES 350 is a front-wheel drive vehicle. This has been the standard configuration for the ES 350 model across multiple generations, with its design prioritizing front-wheel-drive traction for a comfortable ride. Rear-wheel drive is typically found in other Lexus models, such as the IS series, and all-wheel drive is available on the newer hybrid ES models (starting with the 2026 model year) but not on the traditional ES 350.
- Drivetrain: The ES 350 uses a front-wheel-drive (FWD) setup, meaning power from the engine is sent to the front wheels.
- Comfort-focused design: The front-wheel-drive layout is part of the ES 350's design strategy, which focuses on providing flagship-type comfort, according to Lexus USA Newsroom and Lexus USA Newsroom.
- Alternative models: Other Lexus sedans, like the IS, come standard with rear-wheel drive, and some models offer all-wheel drive (AWD).
- Future availability: For the 2026 model year and beyond, Lexus will offer a hybrid ES model that is available in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Does the Lexus ES 350 have 4 wheel drive?
LEXUS SEDANS WITH AWD
As mentioned above, the ES comes solely in front-wheel drive. Rear-wheel drive comes standard on the IS 300 and 350, but all-wheel drive is available on each trim level. On the GS, only rear-wheel drive is available on either trim of the 300, while the 350's two trims have a choice of RWD or AWD.
Are all ES FWD?
With the all-new ES, this is demonstrated in an extended model range that includes both full hybrid and battery electric powertrains, with different power options and the choice of both front and all-wheel drive.
