Is the LC 500 RWD or AWD?
The LC 500 is rear-wheel drive (RWD). The standard V8 coupe in Lexus’ LC lineup is built around a rear-drive chassis, and there is no factory all-wheel-drive (AWD) option for the LC 500 in the primary markets. The hybrid LC 500h shares the same RWD bias in those markets, with AWD not typically offered in the U.S. configuration.
Drivetrain overview for the LC 500 lineup
Below is a concise snapshot of how the main LC 500 models are configured, noting how drivetrain options vary by market where applicable.
- LC 500 (V8) — Rear-wheel drive only; designed for rear-axle traction and sports-car handling; no AWD version offered in the typical U.S. lineup.
- LC 500h (Hybrid) — Hybrid drivetrain featuring Lexus Hybrid Drive; in the U.S. market it is not offered with AWD, reflecting the same RWD bias as the non-hybrid LC 500 in those regions.
In short, the LC 500 family in the United States is configured for rear-wheel drive, with no factory AWD option for these models in current mainstream offerings. Buyers seeking all-wheel-drive performance should consider other Lexus models that provide AWD configurations.
Regional context and variations
Global availability
Drivetrain availability can differ by region. While the core LC lineup sold in many markets emphasizes rear-drive dynamics, some overseas markets have experimented with or offered alternative configurations. Prospective buyers should consult local Lexus dealers for the exact drivetrain options and any regional special editions.
For most buyers focused on the LC 500’s essence, the key takeaway remains: the LC 500 is a rear-wheel-drive coupe, and AWD is not part of the standard or typical options for this model in the main markets today.
Summary
The Lexus LC 500 is built as a rear-wheel-drive vehicle. The LC 500h hybrid shares the same rear-drive emphasis in the primary markets, and there is no widely advertised AWD option for these models in those markets. If AWD is a priority, buyers should explore other Lexus models that offer all-wheel drive.
