Is Lexus IS350 front wheel drive?
The short answer: no. The Lexus IS350 is not offered as a factory front-wheel-drive model. It is built around rear-wheel-drive dynamics, with all-wheel drive available as an option on several generations and markets. Exact drivetrain configuration varies by year and region, so checking the specific vehicle’s build sheet is essential.
Drivetrain overview
The Lexus IS line has long prioritized sporty handling, typically through rear-wheel drive. The IS350—equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 in most markets—follows that tradition. While all-wheel drive has been offered on certain IS350 variants, there has not been a factory FWD version of the IS350 in the United States or most other major markets. Below is a generation-by-generation snapshot of how drivetrain options have been arranged for the IS350.
Here is a generation-by-generation snapshot of how the drivetrain options were arranged for the IS350:
- Generation 1 (2006–2013): Standard rear-wheel drive (RWD); all-wheel drive (AWD) available as an option on IS350 in certain markets.
- Generation 2 (2014–2020): Primarily RWD as the baseline; AWD offered as an option on IS350 (and IS250 in some markets), with AWD variants available in several regions.
- Generation 3 (2021–present): Current generation offers both RWD and AWD configurations for the IS350 (depending on trim and market); no factory front-wheel-drive option for IS350.
In summary, across its generations, the IS350 has been available with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, but not as a factory front-wheel-drive model in the main markets.
How to verify the drivetrain on a specific car
If you’re shopping for a used or certified-pre-owned IS350, use these checks to confirm the drivetrain before purchase:
- Check the vehicle’s window sticker or build sheet (or VIN-based decode) for the listed drivetrain. Look for references to AWD or 4WD as applicable.
- Inspect exterior and undercarriage badges and the presence of a front differential or transfer case. AWD variants typically have a front differential and additional driveshaft components not found on RWD models.
- Look for a second driveshaft running to the rear axle and the necessary suspension/ drivetrain hardware typical of AWD systems.
- Observe the dashboard or instrument cluster indicators; some Lexus models show an AWD indicator or an all-wheel-drive mode screen when the car is started.
- Ask the seller or dealer for a build sheet or service records that explicitly quote the drivetrain configuration.
Verifying the drivetrain helps avoid confusion between RWD and AWD versions and ensures the car matches your needs.
Summary
Bottom line: Lexus has not offered a factory front-wheel-drive IS350 in its mainstream lineup. The IS350 is generally available with rear-wheel drive as the standard configuration, with all-wheel drive offered as an option on some years and markets. Always confirm the exact drivetrain on the specific vehicle using its build sheet, VIN, and dealer documentation before buying.
