Is the 2016 Lexus ES 350 all-wheel drive?
No, the 2016 Lexus ES 350 is not available with an all-wheel drive (AWD) option. The Lexus ES 350 is a front-wheel drive (FWD) luxury sedan that has been offered exclusively with a FWD drivetrain since its introduction.
Detailed Overview of the 2016 Lexus ES 350
The Lexus ES 350 is a midsize luxury sedan that has been a core model in the Lexus lineup since its debut in 1989. The 2016 model year represented the sixth generation of the ES 350, which is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 268 horsepower. This engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels.
Lexus has not offered an all-wheel drive option on the ES 350, as the brand's focus for this model has been on providing a comfortable, refined, and efficient luxury sedan experience. The front-wheel drive layout helps maximize interior space and trunk volume, while also contributing to the ES 350's smooth and composed ride quality.
Why Doesn't the Lexus ES 350 Have All-Wheel Drive?
There are a few key reasons why Lexus has not made all-wheel drive available on the ES 350:
- The ES 350's target buyer prioritizes comfort, luxury, and efficiency over all-out performance or off-road capability. All-wheel drive adds complexity, weight, and cost that don't align with the ES 350's core mission.
- Lexus offers all-wheel drive options on other models in its lineup, such as the RX and GX SUVs, to cater to buyers seeking more traction and capability. The ES 350 is positioned as a more urban-focused luxury sedan.
- Front-wheel drive provides adequate traction and handling characteristics for most driving conditions the ES 350 will encounter, without the added complexity and fuel economy penalty of all-wheel drive.
So in summary, the 2016 Lexus ES 350 is exclusively available with front-wheel drive, as this configuration best matches the model's intended purpose and target buyer preferences. Lexus reserves its all-wheel drive offerings for other models in its lineup that are better suited for that capability.p>
