Is Lexus UX 4 wheel drive?
The Lexus UX lineup is not exclusively four-wheel drive. Most gasoline models are front-wheel drive by default, with all-wheel drive available on certain trims and in specific markets. The hybrid UX 250h often offers an AWD setup in many regions, while the electric UX 300e is typically front-wheel drive.
To understand what this means for buyers, it helps to break down the drivetrain options by variant and region, since availability can vary with model year and market. The following sections cover the common configurations and what to expect when shopping a Lexus UX today.
Drivetrain options by UX model
Below is a breakdown of how each main UX variant is typically configured in terms of drive layout.
Gasoline UX 200
Key drivetrain details for the gasoline-powered UX 200.
- Standard drivetrain: front-wheel drive (FWD).
- All-wheel drive (AWD) is available as an option on select trims and in certain markets.
- Notes: AWD in this variant uses a center coupling to drive the rear axle when conditions warrant, without a rear-mounted electric motor.
In practice, if you want AWD on a UX 200, verify the exact trim and market to confirm availability for your year and region.
Hybrid UX 250h
Key drivetrain details for the hybrid UX 250h.
- Drivetrain options vary by market, but AWD (often marketed as E-Four) is commonly available on the UX 250h in many regions.
- In markets where AWD is offered, the rear axle is driven by an electric motor, providing enhanced traction without a traditional gasoline-powered rear motor.
- Some trims may be listed with only FWD, depending on the specific market and model year.
For buyers prioritizing traction, confirm whether the hybrid UX 250h you’re considering includes AWD in your area and year.
Electric UX 300e
Key drivetrain details for the electric UX 300e.
- Drivetrain: typically front-wheel drive with a single electric motor powering the front axle.
- AWD: not commonly offered in most regions; an all-wheel-drive version is not a standard option for the UX 300e.
- Notes: Range, charging, and performance depend on the battery and regional specifications; AWD alternatives are rare in this BEV variant.
If exploring the UX 300e, plan for front-wheel drive as the default setup in most markets, and check local availability if AWD is a must-have.
What this means for buyers
Drivetrain choice affects traction, efficiency, and price. Here are practical takeaways to keep in mind when shopping a Lexus UX.
- Check the exact market and model year, since AWD availability for the UX 200 and UX 250h can change over time and by region.
- Understand how AWD is implemented: for hybrids, AWD (E-Four) adds an electric rear motor; for non-hybrid AWD, it uses a traditional rear differential system.
- Expect the UX 300e to be front-wheel drive in most regions, with AWD being uncommon or unavailable.
In short, your ability to get four-wheel drive with a Lexus UX depends on the variant you choose and where you buy it. Always verify drivetrain details on the specific vehicle listing or with a Lexus dealer for your locale and model year.
Summary
The Lexus UX lineup does not offer a single, universal four-wheel-drive configuration. The gasoline UX 200 is typically FWD with AWD available in some markets, the UX 250h hybrid commonly offers AWD in many regions via the E-Four system, and the UX 300e BEV is generally front-wheel drive. Regional and year-to-year variations mean the best path is to confirm the drivetrain on the exact vehicle you’re considering with a local dealer or official Lexus page.
