Is the Lexus ES300 rear-wheel drive?
The Lexus ES300 is not rear-wheel drive. The ES line has long been front-wheel-drive, with some all-wheel-drive options on certain trims in various model years. The ES300 badge identifies the model family and engine, not a rear-drive layout.
Drivetrain basics for the Lexus ES line
The ES family is built on front-wheel-drive platforms derived from Toyota Camry engineering. Most generations use FWD, and all-wheel-drive (AWD) has appeared on select ES 350 trims in certain markets. The hybrid ES 300h is typically front-wheel drive as well.
Key drive configurations across the ES lineup include the following:
- Front-wheel drive (FWD) is the standard layout for nearly all ES generations.
- All-wheel drive (AWD) has been offered on select ES 350 trims in various markets and model years.
- The ES 300h hybrid version is also typically front-wheel drive.
In short, the ES300 is not a rear-wheel-drive model. If you need rear-wheel drive within Lexus, you would typically look to other model lines such as the IS, GS/GS F, or LS, or to non-ES variants that offer RWD.
Historical context by generation
Across its generations, Lexus has kept the ES as a front-wheel-drive family sedan, with AWD offered selectively on the ES 350 in certain markets. The ES300 badge does not indicate a rear-wheel-drive configuration.
Generation-by-generation drive layout notes
Here is a concise look at drive layouts by era, highlighting the absence of RWD in the ES300 lineage:
- 1990s ES generations were front-wheel drive on Camry-based platforms.
- 2000s ES variants continued FWD, with AWD available on some ES 350 trims.
- Hybrid ES 300h joined the lineup later and is typically front-wheel drive.
There has not been a dedicated ES300 that uses rear-wheel drive in the U.S. market.
Why drive layout matters for buyers
Choosing between FWD, AWD, or RWD affects handling, fuel efficiency, and winter performance. For the ES line, most buyers benefit from predictable FWD with optional AWD for adverse conditions, and the ES remains primarily a front-wheel-drive luxury sedan rather than a rear-wheel-drive car.
Summary
Bottom line: No, the Lexus ES300 is not rear-wheel drive. It has been produced as a front-wheel-drive model throughout its history, with occasional all-wheel-drive options on ES 350 trims and a front-drive hybrid ES 300h in many markets. If you specifically want RWD in a Lexus, you would look to other model lines such as the IS, GS, or LS.
