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Is Lexus SUV rear-wheel drive?

Yes, most Lexus SUV models are rear-wheel drive (RWD) or available with RWD configurations. Lexus, Toyota's luxury division, is known for its focus on performance and driving dynamics, which is reflected in the rear-wheel drive layout of many of its SUV offerings.


Lexus SUV Drivetrain Configurations


Lexus SUVs typically come in either rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. The rear-wheel drive layout provides better weight distribution and handling characteristics, which aligns with Lexus' emphasis on a more engaging driving experience.



  • The Lexus LX, GX, and RX SUV models are available in both RWD and AWD variants.

  • The Lexus UX and NX compact SUVs are offered with standard front-wheel drive (FWD), but can also be equipped with an AWD system.

  • The high-performance Lexus LX 600 and GX 460 models are primarily rear-wheel drive, with AWD as an option.


Lexus' use of rear-wheel drive in its SUV lineup is a deliberate choice to provide a more dynamic and responsive driving experience, while still offering the option of all-wheel drive for improved traction and capability in various weather and road conditions.


Benefits of Rear-Wheel Drive in Lexus SUVs


The rear-wheel drive layout in Lexus SUVs offers several advantages, including:



  • Improved handling and responsiveness: The rear-wheel drive configuration allows for a more balanced weight distribution, resulting in better steering feel, cornering, and overall driving dynamics.

  • Enhanced performance: Rear-wheel drive provides better traction and power delivery, especially during acceleration, which can enhance the performance capabilities of Lexus SUVs.

  • Towing and off-road capability: The rear-wheel drive layout can also contribute to improved towing capacity and off-road performance, as the weight distribution and power delivery are better suited for these tasks.


While all-wheel drive systems offer their own benefits, such as improved traction in slippery conditions, Lexus has chosen to prioritize the driving dynamics and performance characteristics that rear-wheel drive can provide in its SUV lineup.p>

Is Lexus RWD or AWD?


Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2025 IS has three engine options: a 241-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the IS300, a 311-hp V-6 in the IS350, and a 472-hp V-8 in the IS500. The IS300 and IS350 can be had with all-wheel drive; the IS500 is rear-drive only.



Is Lexus NX front or rear-wheel drive?


Powertrain

TypeModelLayout
GasolineNX 250/260FWD
AWD
GasolineNX 350AWD
Gasoline hybridNX 350hFWD



Are any SUVs rear-wheel drive?


Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Crossovers / SUVs. Discover Nissan's lineup of new RWD Crossovers / SUVs, designed for a sportier and rugged driving experience. Choose your model, then build, price and customize the perfect Nissan for you.



What is the most common problem with Lexus RX350?


Battery failure
Premature battery failures are a common issue in Lexus RX 350 models. These can increase maintenance costs, especially if the problem keeps cropping up.



How do I know if my Lexus IS RWD or AWD?


To figure out which one it is, pop the hood and locate the engine. If your engine is transversely mounted, which means it sits sideways under your hood, this means your vehicle is AWD, not 4WD.



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.



Are RWD SUVs bad in snow?


It tends to work best in dry conditions, and inclement weather such as rain or snow can cause the vehicle to lose traction much faster than other drivetrains. Stability control helps vastly with this problem, but RWD isn't recommended to those who live in snowy areas or face unusual amounts of rainfall.



Is the Lexus RX front or rear-wheel drive?


Lexus RX
LayoutFront-engine, front-wheel drive Front-engine, four-wheel drive
ChassisUnibody
Chronology
SuccessorToyota Harrier (XU60) (Japan, for XU30 model) Lexus TX (RX L)



What Lexus cars are rear-wheel drive?


The answer would be the ES sedan, which comes in front-wheel drive only, and the Performance category of vehicles – the RC F, GS, and LC – which are exclusively rear-wheel drive.



Which Lexus cars are rear wheel drive?


The answer would be the ES sedan, which comes in front-wheel drive only, and the Performance category of vehicles – the RC F, GS, and LC – which are exclusively rear-wheel drive.


Kevin's Auto

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.