Is Lexus front-wheel drive or rear?
Lexus uses both front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive configurations across its lineup; you’ll find front-wheel-drive versions with optional all-wheel drive on most cars, while many sportier or flagship models rely on rear-wheel drive or offer AWD.
Because Lexus designs many of its vehicles on different platforms, drivetrain options vary by model and trim. This article provides a broad overview of where you’re likely to see FWD, AWD, or RWD across the current lineup, with notes on exceptions and how to verify a specific vehicle.
Drivetrain options by Lexus model lines
Below is a snapshot of typical drive layouts across major Lexus model lines. Availability can vary by market and trim, so always check the exact build sheet.
- IS: available in rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD).
- RC: primarily rear-wheel drive; AWD is available on some trims.
- LC: rear-wheel drive; AWD is not typically offered.
- ES: front-wheel drive (FWD) standard with AWD available in many markets.
- LS: rear-wheel drive (RWD) standard with AWD available on some trims.
- NX: available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
- RX: available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
- UX: available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
- GX: available with four-wheel drive (4WD) in many trims; some markets label it AWD.
- LX: typically equipped with four-wheel drive (4WD); some markets offer AWD variants, but 4WD is common.
In short, Lexus offers a mix of front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, and four-wheel-drive configurations. If you’re shopping, pick the model and trim that matches your preferred balance of efficiency, handling, and capability, and verify the drive layout on the build sheet.
Summary
Across its lineup, Lexus does not rely on a single drivetrain layout. There are FWD models, RWD-focused sports and luxury variants, and AWD or 4WD options for traction and capability. Always check the specific model’s drivetrain specification to know exactly what you’ll get on a given vehicle.
Is the Lexus front or rear-wheel-drive?
The good news is that many models of Lexus come with standard FWD or are available in AWD. Luxury SUVs like GX and LX come with full-time AWD by default. Whereas the ES sedan is only available in FWD. The SUV models GX and LX come standard FWD.
Why is Lexus front-wheel drive?
The saved weight not only helps to improve fuel economy and allow for more interior space (especially for sedans) but the placement of the weight is directly over the drive wheels for front-wheel drive vehicles which greatly improves traction.
Which Lexus has FWD?
ES
Efficiency: Front-wheel drive models like the ES and NX tend to be more fuel efficient for greater savings at the gas pump.
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.
