Loading

Is the Lexus is300 all-wheel drive?

Yes, the Lexus IS300 is available with an all-wheel drive (AWD) option. The IS300 AWD model provides enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more capable luxury sedan.


Lexus IS300 AWD Overview


The Lexus IS300 is a compact luxury sedan that has been in production since 1998. Over the years, the IS300 has offered both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, catering to the diverse needs of its customers.


The AWD variant of the IS300 utilizes a sophisticated system that seamlessly distributes power between the front and rear wheels, providing improved grip and handling in slippery conditions, such as rain, snow, or ice. This feature enhances the vehicle's overall stability and performance, making it a more versatile choice for drivers who frequently encounter challenging road conditions.


Key Features of the Lexus IS300 AWD



  • Drivetrain: The IS300 AWD is equipped with a full-time all-wheel drive system that automatically adjusts power distribution between the front and rear wheels, depending on driving conditions and traction needs.

  • Engine: The IS300 AWD is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering a robust 260 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque.

  • Transmission: The AWD model is paired with a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission, providing seamless power delivery and efficient performance.

  • Suspension: The IS300 AWD features a well-tuned suspension system that provides a comfortable ride while maintaining agile handling characteristics.

  • Safety: The AWD variant of the IS300 comes equipped with a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a pre-collision system.


The Lexus IS300 AWD offers a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and all-weather capability, making it a desirable choice for those seeking a premium sedan that can handle a variety of driving conditions with confidence.

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 IS 300 FWD or RWD?


The Lexus IS 300 can be either rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), depending on the specific model and year. The RWD version uses a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the AWD version is equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine.
 

Feature RWD AWD
Engine 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder 3.5L V6
Horsepower 241 hp 260 hp
Transmission 8-speed automatic 6-speed automatic
(function(){
(this||self).Wufxzb=function(c,e,f,l,k){var d=document.getElementById(c);if(d&&(d.offsetWidth!==0||d.offsetHeight!==0)){c=d.querySelector("div");var g=c.scrollWidth-c.offsetWidth,h=Math.min(e?g:0,g);c.scrollLeft=e&&(l||f)?0:h;var a=d.getElementsByTagName("g-left-button")[0],b=d.getElementsByTagName("g-right-button")[0];a&&b&&(e=RegExp("\\btHT0l\\b"),f=RegExp("\\bpQXcHc\\b"),a.className=a.className.replace(e,""),b.className=b.className.replace(e,""),h===0?a.className="pQXcHc "+a.className:(a.className=
a.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("pA30Ne")),h===g?b.className="pQXcHc "+b.className:(b.className=b.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("FpCCub")),setTimeout(function(){a.className+=" tHT0l";b.className+=" tHT0l"},50))}};}).call(this);(function(){var id='_h8olab3EMefY7M8P98uzsQw_180';var rtl=false;var gecko=false;var edge=false;var soh=false;
(this||self).Wufxzb(id,rtl,gecko,edge,soh);})();



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 IS300 AWD?


Yes, the Lexus IS 300 is available in both all-wheel drive (AWD) and rear-wheel drive (RWD) configurations, depending on the specific model and year. For example, recent models offer an IS 300 AWD with a V6 engine and an IS 300 RWD with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. 

  • IS 300 AWD:
    • Features a 3.5L V6 engine with 260 horsepower. 
    • Comes standard with all-wheel drive on many recent models. 
  • IS 300 RWD:
    • Has a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine with 241 horsepower. 
    • Comes standard with rear-wheel drive. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.