Is the Lexus GS AWD?
Yes. The Lexus GS has been offered with all-wheel drive on several variants, including the GS 350 AWD and the GS 450h hybrid, though AWD availability varied by year and market. The GS lineup was discontinued after the 2020 model year in the U.S.
Overview of the GS and its AWD options
The GS is a mid-size luxury sedan whose drivetrain choices have historically included rear-wheel drive as standard and all-wheel drive as an option across multiple generations. Buyers who valued traction in rain, snow, or spirited driving could often opt for AWD on several trims, particularly the gasoline-powered 350 models and the hybrid 450h variant.
Key AWD variants
Common AWD configurations you might encounter when shopping for a used GS include the following:
- GS 350 AWD — gasoline variant with Lexus's all-wheel-drive system available on multiple model years and markets.
- GS 450h AWD — hybrid variant that pairs a 3.5L V6 with electric motors to drive all wheels (often marketed as E-Four AWD in hybrids).
- GS 350 F Sport AWD — sport-oriented trim that could be equipped with AWD depending on year and market.
In summary, AWD availability varied by generation and market, but multiple GS models offered all-wheel drive when traction and handling were priorities for buyers.
Drivetrain evolution by generation
Below is a broad look at how AWD appeared across the GS generations, recognizing that exact trim names and availability can vary by region and model year.
- First generation (1990s): AWD was not universally offered; some markets had AWD variants on select trims.
- Second generation (late 1990s–2000s): AWD became more common on higher trims, including luxury-focused models.
- Third generation (mid-2000s): AWD available on more GS trims, including hybrid options on some years.
- Fourth generation (2012–2020): AWD widely available on many GS 350 and hybrid variants; Lexus marketed AWD as a key feature for improving winter traction and cornering.
Note that these are broad trends; for a specific model year, verify the exact drivetrain configuration with the seller or manufacturer specs.
Performance considerations and maintenance
All-wheel-drive systems in the GS add weight and complexity, which can affect fuel economy and maintenance costs. The gasoline GS models rely on the automatic transmission and the AWD system to distribute torque to both axles, while the GS 450h uses Lexus' hybrid drive plus E-Four for AWD. Buyers should budget for potential differential service, transmission fluid changes, and tire rotation to maintain AWD performance.
What to look for when buying a used GS with AWD
Before purchasing, check the following:
- Service history for the AWD system and transmission/differential fluids.
- Consistent tire wear; mismatched tires can affect AWD behavior.
- Any noises or vibrations during acceleration or cornering that could indicate drivetrain issues.
- Recall or service campaigns related to the AWD or hybrid systems.
These checks help ensure you’re not buying into expensive maintenance or hidden issues related to all-wheel-drive hardware in the GS.
Current status: is the GS still on sale?
The Lexus GS line was phased out after the 2020 model year in the United States, with production ending in other markets around the same period. If you’re seeking AWD in a current Lexus, you’d look to models such as the IS, ES, LC, or LS, which offer modern AWD configurations with newer technology.
Summary
The Lexus GS has historically offered all-wheel drive on several variants, most notably the GS 350 AWD and the GS 450h hybrid, though availability varied by year and market. The model line was discontinued after 2020 in the U.S., so any AWD GS you encounter today would be a used vehicle. When shopping, confirm the exact drivetrain specification for the model year and review AWD-specific maintenance history to gauge long-term reliability.
