Is the Lexus 350 front-wheel drive?

In most cases, a Lexus 350 can be front-wheel drive, but many versions offer all-wheel drive as either standard or optional. The exact drivetrain depends on the model and year.

The term "Lexus 350" covers several nameplates—such as ES 350, RX 350, NX 350, and IS 350—each with its own drivetrain configurations that have evolved across generations. To know for sure, you should confirm the specific model, year, and trim you’re interested in.

Drivetrain options by popular Lexus 350 models

Below is a general guide to how the drivetrain is commonly configured across the main Lexus 350 nameplates. Availability can vary by year, market, and trim level.

• ES 350: Front-wheel drive is typically standard, with all-wheel drive offered as an option on some trims and years.


• RX 350: All-wheel drive is commonly available and often offered across trims; front-wheel drive may be available on base configurations or as a lower-cost option.


• NX 350: Front-wheel drive is usually the standard setup, with all-wheel drive available as an option or on higher trims.


• IS 350: Rear-wheel drive is the traditional standard; all-wheel drive is available as an option on select trims and years.

In practice, whether a specific Lexus 350 is FWD or AWD depends on the exact model, year, and market. If you’re shopping, verify the drivetrain on the window sticker, build sheet, or by asking the dealer.

How to verify a specific vehicle’s drivetrain

Use these steps to confirm whether a particular Lexus 350 is FWD or AWD before buying or leasing.

1. Check the window sticker (Monroney label) for "AWD" or "FWD."


2. Look for drivetrain badges or indicators on the rear of the vehicle or near the wheel wells that often show AWD or FWD.


3. Review the vehicle’s build or option sheet, or the dealer’s online listing for drivetrain details.


4. If in doubt, contact the dealer with the VIN to pull the exact equipment spec from the factory build.

Knowing the drivetrain is crucial for traction, fuel economy, and maintenance considerations, especially in regions with varying weather and road conditions.

Summary

The short answer is: it depends. The Lexus 350 family includes several models that commonly offer front-wheel drive as standard or optional, and many also provide all-wheel drive across different trims and years. Always verify the specific model-year configuration to be sure.

What is the common problem with Lexus RX 350?

Common problems reported for the Lexus RX 350 include oil leaks, issues with the airbag system (like warning lights), cracking dashboards, and problems with rain sensors. Other common complaints involve battery failures, steering problems, and A/C or electronic system failures.
 
This video explains the common problems of the 3rd generation Lexus RX 350: 55s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Jul 2, 2021
Engine and mechanical

• Oil leaks: Leaks often occur around the valve cover gaskets or oil pan. Some models have also reported a more serious issue with the oil line to the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system. 
• Steering issues: Problems are sometimes linked to leaking power steering fluid. 
• Transmission issues: Some models have reported problems with shifting, gear changes, or transmission fluid leaks. 

Electrical and electronic 

• Battery failure: Premature battery failure has been reported, sometimes leading to starting issues. 
• Airbag problems: Illuminated airbag warning lights, sometimes with specific error codes, are a reported issue. 
• Rain sensors: Defective or malfunctioning rain sensors are a recurring complaint, especially in certain model years. 
• Electronic system failures: Other electronic systems can fail, including issues with the A/C amplifier. 

Interior and exterior

• Cracking dashboards: This was more common in older models. While not directly a safety issue, a cracked dashboard can potentially affect the airbag system, and repairs can be difficult to source. 
• Rattling doors: Some owners have experienced this noise from the doors. 
• Excessive wind noise: Some models have been reported to have excessive wind noise at higher speeds. 

Other

• Check engine light: This can appear with codes related to the Variable Valve Timing system.
• Interior noises: Rattling or squeaking noises inside the cabin are a sometimes-reported issue. 

This video discusses the common complaints about the 2023-2024 Lexus RX: 1mLSFTYouTube · Oct 11, 2024

Is the Lexus IS 350 FWD?

2025 Lexus IS 350 Horsepower & Engine Specs
Under the hood, you'll find a 3.5L V6 engine with 311 horsepower. This is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission (RWD) or 6-speed automatic (AWD).

Is the Lexus RX 350 FWD or AWD?

The main differences are that AWD offers better traction and performance in bad weather and on unpaved roads, while FWD is less expensive to buy, simpler, and offers better fuel economy. Choose AWD if you frequently drive in snow, rain, or on rough terrain, but opt for FWD if you live in a moderate climate and want to save money on purchase price and gas. 
You can watch this video to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of FWD vs AWD: 58sIndyAutoManYouTube · Jan 22, 2024
Lexus RX 350 FWD 

• Pros:
  • Lower purchase price. 
  • Better fuel economy. 
  • Simpler mechanical design and potentially lower maintenance costs. 
• Cons:
  • Less traction in poor weather conditions like snow or heavy rain. 
  • Less capable on unpaved or slippery roads. 

Lexus RX 350 AWD

• Pros:
  • Superior traction for better handling in snow, heavy rain, and on loose surfaces. 
  • Provides more confidence when driving on mountain roads or light trails. 
  • Can be faster off the line due to better grip. 
• Cons:
  • Higher initial cost. 
  • Slightly worse fuel economy (though Lexus's system is "on-demand" and aims to improve this). 
  • More complex mechanical system. 

This video explains how Lexus's all-wheel drive system works: 59sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Nov 4, 2023
Which one should you choose?

• Choose FWD if: You live in a warm climate with little to no snow, prioritize saving money on initial cost and fuel, and generally drive on paved roads. 
• Choose AWD if: You live in an area with frequent snow or heavy rain, or if you plan to drive on any unpaved roads or in areas with significant inclines in poor weather. 

Is the Lexus ES 350 front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive?

The Lexus ES 350 is a front-wheel drive vehicle. This has been the standard configuration for the ES 350 model across multiple generations, with its design prioritizing front-wheel-drive traction for a comfortable ride. Rear-wheel drive is typically found in other Lexus models, such as the IS series, and all-wheel drive is available on the newer hybrid ES models (starting with the 2026 model year) but not on the traditional ES 350. 

• Drivetrain: The ES 350 uses a front-wheel-drive (FWD) setup, meaning power from the engine is sent to the front wheels. 
• Comfort-focused design: The front-wheel-drive layout is part of the ES 350's design strategy, which focuses on providing flagship-type comfort, according to Lexus USA Newsroom and Lexus USA Newsroom. 
• Alternative models: Other Lexus sedans, like the IS, come standard with rear-wheel drive, and some models offer all-wheel drive (AWD). 
• Future availability: For the 2026 model year and beyond, Lexus will offer a hybrid ES model that is available in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.