Home FAQ

Is Lexus SUV rear wheel drive?

For most buyers, the short answer is no. Lexus SUVs are not sold as pure rear-wheel-drive vehicles. The lineup predominantly uses front-wheel drive as the base, with optional all-wheel drive, and only the larger, off-road–oriented models employ true four-wheel-drive systems.

How Lexus designs its SUV drivetrains

As of the 2024–2025 model years, Lexus emphasizes traction and efficiency over a traditional rear-drive layout in its sport-utility lineup. The mainstream crossovers are built on front-wheel-drive platforms, with all-wheel drive available across several models to improve grip in rain, snow or light off-road conditions. The more rugged, larger SUVs lean into dedicated four-wheel-drive configurations designed for tougher terrain.

Model-by-model overview

Below is a quick-at-a-glance look at current Lexus SUV drivetrain configurations by model family.

NX: Front-wheel drive as standard, with an optional all-wheel-drive system; no pure rear-wheel-drive configuration is offered.

RX: Available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive; not offered as rear-wheel drive.

UX: Front-wheel drive with an optional all-wheel-drive system; not offered as rear-wheel drive.

In summary, these mainstream crossovers rely on front-drive architectures with AWD for added traction rather than a traditional rear-wheel-drive setup.

Larger, off-road–oriented Lexus SUVs

For customers seeking more rugged capability, Lexus offers GX and LX with four-wheel-drive systems designed for tougher conditions. These models provide power to all four wheels as a standard or selectable configuration, but they are not marketed as pure rear-wheel-drive vehicles.

GX: Uses a full-time all-wheel-drive system on most trims, aligning with off-road capability rather than a rear-drive layout.

LX: Offers full-time four-wheel drive across the lineup, including features aimed at rugged terrain and securely distributing torque to all wheels.

These larger SUVs demonstrate Lexus’s approach to traction: AWD/4WD is available where needed, but none of the current models are sold as conventional rear-wheel-drive SUVs.

Summary

Bottom line: If rear-wheel drive is a non-negotiable requirement, Lexus’s current SUV lineup does not offer a pure RWD configuration. You’ll typically find front-wheel-drive bases with optional all-wheel drive on the mainstream models, and dedicated four-wheel-drive systems on the GX and LX for enhanced traction and off-road capability.

Which Lexus models are RWD?

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.

What Lexus SUV is all-wheel drive?

Lexus offers all-wheel drive (AWD) on several of its SUV models, including the compact UX and NX, the mid-size RX, and the larger GX and LX. These models have different powertrain options, such as gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid, and often feature various trims that are available with AWD.
You can watch this video to learn more about the Lexus NX: 1mThe Right Car?YouTube · Sep 2, 2025
Compact SUVs

Lexus UX: The hybrid UX 250h is available with AWD in various trims.
Lexus NX: The NX offers AWD on gas, hybrid (350h350 h350ℎ), and plug-in hybrid (450h+450 h plus450ℎ+) powertrains, including F Sport Handling trims.

Mid-size SUVs

Lexus RX: The RX is available with AWD across many trims, including gas (350350350), hybrid (350h350 h350ℎ), and plug-in hybrid (450h+450 h plus450ℎ+) versions.

You can watch this video to learn more about the Lexus RX: 1mOn Down The Road ProductionsYouTube · Jun 20, 2025
Large SUVs

Lexus GX: All Lexus GX models come with a full-time 4WD system.
Lexus LX: All Lexus LX models also come standard with a full-time 4WD system.
Lexus TX: The Lexus TX is also available with AWD.

Other models with AWD

While not SUVs, it is worth noting that some Lexus sedans, like the IS 300 AWD, also offer an AWD option.

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.

What is the most common problem with Lexus RX350?

The most common problem with the Lexus RX 350 is a massive oil leak, specifically from the VVT-i oil line, which can lead to rapid oil loss and potential engine failure, especially in older models like the 2010. Other frequent issues include faulty rain sensors, especially in newer models, resulting in wipers that malfunction randomly. Older model years (2007 and 2010) also show a tendency for airbag warning lights and transmission problems, while some 2016 models experienced rough shifting and transmission issues.

This video discusses the 2013 Lexus RX 350's common problems, including oil leaks and other issues: 55scar PROblemsYouTube · Jun 26, 2022
Engine and oil leaks

VVT-i oil line leak: This is a recurring issue, particularly in older models like the 2010, where the oil line can burst, causing significant oil loss and potential engine damage if not addressed immediately.
Check Engine light: This can be triggered by various engine issues, including problems with the variable valve timing system.

Electrical and sensor problems

Rain sensor malfunction: Both older and newer models have reported issues with the rain-sensing wipers not functioning correctly or stopping randomly.
Airbag warning light: This has been reported across several model years, often linked to codes B0111 and B0116 due to issues like faulty sensors or a depleted airbag backup battery.
Infotainment system issues: Problems like malfunctioning touchscreens, unresponsive climate controls, and other glitches have been reported, particularly in recent years.

Transmission and drivetrain issues

Rough shifting: Some models, such as the 2016, have been reported to have delayed gear shifts and a lack of smoothness.
Transmission failure: In the 2016 model year, transmission problems were significant enough to cause concerns about long-term reliability.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.