Is my Lexus NX AWD?

Yes, the Lexus NX is available with an all-wheel drive (AWD) option. The Lexus NX is a compact luxury crossover SUV that has been in production since 2014. It offers both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations to meet the needs of different drivers.

Lexus NX AWD Overview

The Lexus NX AWD model features a sophisticated all-wheel drive system that provides enhanced traction and control in a variety of driving conditions. This includes improved performance on slippery surfaces like snow, ice, or wet roads. The AWD system automatically adjusts power delivery to the wheels that have the most grip, helping to maintain stability and control.

In addition to the AWD capability, the Lexus NX also offers a range of other features and technologies that make it a popular choice in the luxury crossover segment. This includes a well-appointed interior, advanced safety systems, and a smooth, comfortable ride quality.

Choosing Between FWD and AWD

• Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): The standard Lexus NX configuration is front-wheel drive, which is suitable for most everyday driving conditions and provides good fuel efficiency.


• All-Wheel Drive (AWD): The optional AWD system is recommended for drivers who need enhanced traction and control, such as those who live in areas with frequent inclement weather or who enjoy off-road driving.

Ultimately, the choice between FWD and AWD for the Lexus NX will depend on the individual driver's needs and preferences. Both configurations offer a high-quality driving experience, but the AWD model provides that extra level of capability and confidence in more challenging conditions.

Is the Lexus NX all-wheel drive?

Yes, the Lexus NX is available in both all-wheel drive (AWD) and front-wheel drive (FWD) configurations, depending on the model. The NX 350 comes standard with AWD, while other models like the NX 250 and NX 350h are available with either FWD or AWD. 

• NX 350: Comes standard with all-wheel drive (AWD). 
• NX 250: Available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) versions. 
• NX 350h (Hybrid): Available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. 

How do I find out if my car is AWD?

You can find out if your car is AWD by checking for a badge, looking for drive axles and a rear differential underneath the car, or using your vehicle's VIN to look up its specifications. A physical inspection is often the easiest way, as AWD vehicles will have axles connecting to all four wheels, whereas FWD cars only have front axles and RWD cars only have rear axles. 
Physical inspection

• Look for badges: Check the exterior of your car, particularly on the back or sides, for a badge that says "AWD," "4WD," or another system identifier. 
• Inspect under the car: You will need a safe, flat place to look underneath.
  • Look for axles: See if there are drive axles (bars that go into the center of each wheel) on both the front and rear wheels. 
  • Check for a rear differential: Find a large, pumpkin-shaped housing at the center of the rear axle. If it's there, along with a driveshaft running to it from the transmission, the car is likely AWD or RWD. 
  • Check for a transfer case: AWD and 4WD vehicles have a transfer case behind the transmission. 

This video demonstrates how to visually check if your car is AWD by looking underneath it: 59sMotorCarNutYouTube · Nov 16, 2021
Other methods

• Check the owner's manual: The manual should clearly state the vehicle's drivetrain specifications. 
• Use the VIN: You can enter your car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into a free online tool to generate a report with your car's build specifications, including the drivetrain. 
• Perform a simple test: On a loose surface like gravel or dirt, gently accelerate. If only the front wheels spin, it's likely FWD. If only the rear wheels spin, it's RWD. If the wheels don't spin, it's likely AWD. 

How to put Lexus NX in all-wheel drive?

Gets you unstuck. And on your way you can turn it off manually by pressing the all-wheel drive lock mode switch. The lock mode feature will also be cancelled automatically.

How do I know if my Lexus is AWD?

You can tell if your Lexus is AWD by checking under the car for a rear differential and driveshaft, using its VIN, or looking for a dashboard AWD warning light. An easy visual check is to look underneath the rear of the vehicle; if you see a differential with a driveshaft running to the rear axle, your car has AWD. 
Method 1: Visual inspection (under the car)

• Look for the rear differential: This is a pumpkin-sized part located in the middle of the two rear wheels. 
• Look for the driveshaft: A metal rod should run from the differential to the front of the car. 
• If you see both: The car has the hardware to send power to the rear wheels, meaning it is at least AWD. For many Lexus models, this means it is an AWD system. 

Method 2: Use the VIN 

• Find the VIN: It's on the driver's side dashboard (visible through the windshield) or on the sticker on the driver's side door jamb.
• Use a VIN decoder: Enter the VIN into an online decoder like the one provided by the NHTSA to get detailed information, including the drivetrain.
• Contact Lexus: Provide the VIN to a Lexus dealer, and they can tell you for sure. 

Method 3: Check the dashboard 

• Look for the AWD warning light: When you start the car, the dashboard lights should all turn on briefly. Watch for an AWD light that looks like an axle with four wheels, as described on Reddit. 
• Check for a lock mode button: Some AWD models have a button labeled "AWD" or "Lock" that, when pressed, sends maximum torque to the rear wheels in slippery conditions, as shown in this YouTube video. This button is not present on front-wheel-drive vehicles.