Is Lexus IS 300 4 wheel-drive?
The short answer is: it depends on the model year and market. The Lexus IS 300 can be configured with either rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), and AWD is offered on several trims in various regions. Always check the specific vehicle’s build sheet or window sticker to confirm the drivetrain.
Across generations, Lexus has often positioned the IS 300 as a rear-wheel-drive platform while making AWD available as an option on many trims or regional variants. This article explains how AWD availability has varied and how you can verify the drivetrain on a given IS 300.
Drivetrain options across generations
Over the model’s history, the IS 300 has been offered primarily with RWD as the baseline configuration, with AWD available on selected trims and markets. The exact configuration has shifted with each generation and region.
- First generation (2001–2005): Predominantly rear-wheel drive; some markets offered AWD on certain variants.
- Second generation (2006–2013): RWD was standard; AWD was available on specific trims and markets.
- Third/fourth generation (2013–present): In many markets, the IS 300 has used a 2.0-liter turbo engine; AWD has been offered on select trims and regions, in addition to RWD.
Because drivetrain availability can change with updates and regional lineups, always verify the exact configuration for the vehicle you’re considering using the build sheet or VIN data.
Drivetrain availability by region and trim
Regional markets have different offerings, so AWD for the IS 300 is not universal. The core rule remains that RWD is common, with AWD offered on certain trims where traction or all-weather capability is valued.
United States
In the U.S. market, the IS 300 has been offered with both RWD and AWD across various model years and trims. The turbocharged 2.0-liter IS 300 is commonly paired with AWD on selected configurations, while some trims and years emphasize RWD. Always confirm the drivetrain on the specific vehicle you’re evaluating.
Europe and other markets
European and other international markets often provide AWD on the IS 300 in line with local demand for all-season performance. Availability depends on the engine choice and local regulations for that model year.
How to verify the drivetrain on your IS 300
Use these steps to confirm whether a particular IS 300 is equipped with AWD or RWD before you buy or decide on a used example.
- Check the rear badge: AWD badges may indicate all-wheel drive, though some models do not display it prominently.
- Look at the window sticker or Monroney label: it lists drivetrain options for that vehicle.
- Review the VIN and build sheet: ask a dealer to pull the exact specifications for that VIN.
- Inspect drive-system hardware: additional driveshafts or a third differential hint at AWD.
If you’re shopping used, request maintenance and service records and verify the drivetrain with the dealer or by checking the official build data for that VIN to avoid surprises.
Summary
The Lexus IS 300 is not exclusively a four-wheel-drive model. It is offered in both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, depending on model year, trim, and regional market. To avoid confusion, always verify the drivetrain for the exact vehicle you’re considering using the VIN, window sticker, or dealer documentation.
