Is the Lexus ES 350 FWD or RWD?
The Lexus ES 350 is front-wheel drive (FWD) in the current U.S. market, with no rear-wheel-drive (RWD) variant available. While some overseas markets have explored all-wheel-drive configurations for certain ES models in the past, the North American ES 350 lineup is FWD-only.
Drive layout and drivetrain details
The ES 350 sits on Lexus’ GA-K platform and uses a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. Power is delivered by a 3.5-liter V6 paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth acceleration and refined cruising feel characteristic of the ES family. The current ES 300h hybrid also uses front-wheel drive, not an all-wheel-drive setup.
Note on all-wheel drive: In the United States, Lexus has not offered a factory all-wheel-drive option for the ES 350. Some earlier or overseas configurations have experimented with AWD in the ES line, but such arrangements are not part of the current U.S. ES 350 specification.
Here are the essential facts you need to know about the ES 350's drive layout.
- Drivetrain layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive (FWD) on the GA-K platform.
- Powertrain: 3.5-liter V6 producing around 302 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
- Drivetrain options: No rear-wheel drive or factory all-wheel drive for the ES 350 in the U.S. lineup.
- Handling and efficiency: FWD supports ample interior space and smooth, quiet operation, with efficiency typical for a mid-size, comfort-focused sedan.
In summary, the ES 350 is designed and marketed as a front-wheel-drive sedan in the current market—offering refined comfort without a factory RWD configuration.
Alternatives within the Lexus lineup for RWD or AWD
For buyers who specifically want rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive as a key criterion, other Lexus sedans and crossovers provide those options. The IS line and certain LS variants offer RWD or AWD configurations, while several Lexus SUVs (such as the RX, NX, and GX) commonly offer all-wheel drive as an option.
Other Lexus options to consider
- Lexus IS: A compact sedan with rear-wheel drive as standard and available AWD on most trims.
- Lexus LS: A full-size sedan available with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive depending on configuration.
- Lexus RX/NX family: SUVs that broadly offer all-wheel drive across many trims.
If you specifically want a Lexus sedan with a traditional RWD setup, the IS series is the closest match, with newer models emphasizing driver engagement while still offering AWD on select configurations.
Summary
The Lexus ES 350 is a front-wheel-drive sedan in the current market, with no rear-wheel-drive variant offered. While all-wheel drive has appeared in some ES configurations abroad in the past, it is not part of the current U.S. ES 350 lineup. For those seeking RWD or AWD in a Lexus, consider other models such as the IS or LS, or explore Lexus SUVs that routinely offer AWD.
