Is Lexus RX 300 front or rear-wheel drive?
In short: The Lexus RX 300 is front-wheel drive with an optional all-wheel-drive setup; there is no rear-wheel-drive configuration for this model.
Drivetrain options on the RX 300
Across its production years, the RX 300 was offered with two drivetrain configurations in most markets: a front-wheel drive system as the standard setup, and a selectable all-wheel drive system for improved traction. A rear-wheel-drive layout was not part of the RX 300's factory lineup.
- Front-wheel drive (FWD) — standard on most RX 300 models.
- All-wheel drive (AWD) — optional, providing power to the rear axle as needed for better grip.
In practice, buyers chose between FWD and AWD, but Lexus did not offer a dedicated RWD version of the RX 300.
Market and model-year notes
In the United States, the RX 300 spanned roughly the 1998–2003 model years (with the nameplate continuing into later generations as RX 330/ RX 350). The AWD option was available alongside the standard FWD configuration. In other regions, the same basic drivetrain choices applied, but RWD remained unavailable for this model generation.
What does this mean for driving and ownership?
Before the list: Practical implications you should know when shopping or owning an RX 300 with these drivetrains.
- Traction and weather handling: AWD typically improves grip in rain, snow, or slick surfaces, especially on older or heavier SUVs.
- Fuel economy and maintenance: AWD versions generally consume more fuel and may have higher maintenance costs due to additional drivetrain components.
- Resale and availability: Because AWD was optional, you may encounter more or fewer AWD-equipped examples depending on market and year.
Conclusion: If you need better on-road traction in varying conditions, seek the RX 300 with AWD; if your climate is mild and you want lower running costs, FWD is a practical choice. RWD is not a factory option for the RX 300.
Summary
The Lexus RX 300 was designed with front-wheel drive as the standard configuration and offered an optional all-wheel-drive system. Rear-wheel drive was not provided by Lexus for this model generation. Buyers can typically find FWD RX 300s easily, with AWD versions available for those needing extra traction, especially in regions with challenging weather.
