Is the Lexus IS 350 all-wheel drive?
The short answer is yes. The Lexus IS 350 can be equipped with all-wheel drive, but it is not standard on every model year or market. AWD is typically an optional upgrade rather than a universal feature.
Below is a closer look at how AWD works on the IS 350, when it has been offered, and how to verify drivetrain configuration for a specific car. The IS lineup has spanned multiple generations, but across them AWD has generally been available as an option rather than the default setup.
How all-wheel drive works on the IS 350
In contemporary IS 350 models, all-wheel drive is designed to improve traction in wet, snowy, or otherwise low-grip conditions. The system continuously monitors wheel speed, throttle input, and steering angle to distribute torque between the front and rear axles. When slip is detected, more power can be sent to the axle with better grip to maintain stability and acceleration. The result is better grip on slippery surfaces without sacrificing too much on dry-road handling.
The IS 350’s AWD system is generally designed to operate seamlessly in the background, allowing drivers to experience enhanced confidence without needing to think about it. It can also work in tandem with electronic stability controls and traction systems to optimize performance in various weather conditions.
- AWD is typically a feature offered as an option rather than the standard configuration on most IS 350 trims.
- The system is engineered to respond to grip conditions and driving inputs in real time, distributing torque as needed between the front and rear axle(s).
- When conditions are dry and the driver is on a confident pace, the system may bias toward rear-wheel drive for a more classic driving feel, then adjust as needed when tires lose traction.
- Fuel economy is usually somewhat affected by adding AWD, compared with the base rear-drive version, though real-world results depend on driving style and conditions.
In short, the IS 350’s AWD setup is designed to provide traction and confidence in less-than-ideal conditions while still delivering typical IS 350 performance and ride quality on clear roads.
Availability by model year and market
AWD availability has varied across generations and regions. The pattern has generally been that IS 350 models could be ordered with AWD, but many markets offered RWD as the standard configuration. If you’re shopping used or new, it’s important to confirm the drivetrain on the exact vehicle you’re considering.
- First-generation IS 350 (roughly 2006–2013): AWD was offered as an option in some markets, while others sold IS 350 predominantly with rear-wheel drive.
- Second-generation / mid-cycle refresh (roughly 2014–2020): AWD became more commonly available as an option across IS 350 trims in many markets, including the U.S., with some sport variants offering AWD as well.
- Current generation and updates (roughly 2020s onward): AWD remains available on IS 350 in the United States and other major markets, though specific trim and option packages can vary by year and region.
To avoid surprises, prospective buyers should verify the drivetrain on the window sticker, VIN, or via the official Lexus site or a dealership before purchase.
How to confirm if a specific IS 350 has AWD
Check for an AWD badge on the car, typically near the trunk or on the rear corner of the vehicle. The window sticker will list the drivetrain as “AWD” or “All-Wheel Drive.” You can also query the VIN on Lexus’s official site or ask a dealership to confirm the exact drivetrain configuration for that vehicle.
Considerations when choosing AWD vs. RWD in the IS 350
All-wheel drive can offer enhanced traction in rain, snow, and icy conditions, which many drivers value for daily usability and winter driving. However, AWD vehicles often weigh more and may have slightly lower fuel economy compared with rear-drive versions. For some drivers, particularly those in dry climates who value a purer rear-drive feel, RWD may be preferable. Ultimately, the decision depends on climate, driving habits, and personal preference.
Summary
The Lexus IS 350 is capable of all-wheel drive, but it is not universally standard. AWD has been offered as an option across several generations and markets, with availability varying by year and trim. If AWD is important to you, verify the drivetrain on the exact car you’re considering—whether new or used—via the window sticker, VIN, or a dealership confirmation. In practice, AWD provides added traction for challenging weather, while RWD remains a strong alternative for those who prioritize driving purity in favorable conditions.
Is there an AWD Lexus is?
The base-level Lexus AWD IS model includes a fun-to-drive 3.5L V6 engine.
Is the Lexus IS350 all-wheel drive?
Yes, the Lexus IS 350 is available with all-wheel drive (AWD), but it is also offered in a rear-wheel drive (RWD) version. This means buyers can choose between the two drivetrains when purchasing a new or used IS 350.
- Both options are available: The IS 350 can be configured with either RWD or AWD.
- AWD features: The AWD system automatically distributes power between the front and rear axles to improve traction.
- AWD considerations: Some AWD models may have a slightly different transmission (e.g., a 6-speed automatic instead of an 8-speed found in some RWD models) and a slightly smaller footwell on the driver's side due to the AWD hardware, notes Out Motorsports and The Portland Press Herald.
How do I know if my Lexus is AWD?
You can tell if your Lexus is AWD by checking under the car for a rear differential and driveshaft, using its VIN, or looking for a dashboard AWD warning light. An easy visual check is to look underneath the rear of the vehicle; if you see a differential with a driveshaft running to the rear axle, your car has AWD.
Method 1: Visual inspection (under the car)
- Look for the rear differential: This is a pumpkin-sized part located in the middle of the two rear wheels.
- Look for the driveshaft: A metal rod should run from the differential to the front of the car.
- If you see both: The car has the hardware to send power to the rear wheels, meaning it is at least AWD. For many Lexus models, this means it is an AWD system.
Method 2: Use the VIN
- Find the VIN: It's on the driver's side dashboard (visible through the windshield) or on the sticker on the driver's side door jamb.
- Use a VIN decoder: Enter the VIN into an online decoder like the one provided by the NHTSA to get detailed information, including the drivetrain.
- Contact Lexus: Provide the VIN to a Lexus dealer, and they can tell you for sure.
Method 3: Check the dashboard
- Look for the AWD warning light: When you start the car, the dashboard lights should all turn on briefly. Watch for an AWD light that looks like an axle with four wheels, as described on Reddit.
- Check for a lock mode button: Some AWD models have a button labeled "AWD" or "Lock" that, when pressed, sends maximum torque to the rear wheels in slippery conditions, as shown in this YouTube video. This button is not present on front-wheel-drive vehicles.
Is the Lexus 350 all-wheel drive?
LEXUS SEDANS WITH AWD
As mentioned above, the ES comes solely in front-wheel drive. Rear-wheel drive comes standard on the IS 300 and 350, but all-wheel drive is available on each trim level. On the GS, only rear-wheel drive is available on either trim of the 300, while the 350's two trims have a choice of RWD or AWD.
