Is the Lexus Nx 300h 4 wheel drive?
Drivetrain basics and how AWD has been offered
AWD availability by market and year
- Early NX 300h models (roughly 2014–2017) commonly offered both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) as alternatives, with AWD using Lexus’s E-Four system to drive the rear axle when needed.
- In some markets, certain trims or markets leaned toward FWD as the standard while offering AWD as an option on higher trims or with specific packages.
- From the late 2010s into the early 2020s, sales and branding began shifting toward newer hybrid names (like NX350h) while maintaining AWD availability on several configurations.
How the AWD system works in the NX 300h
Understanding the E-Four system
- It combines the hybrid powertrain with an electric motor that drives the rear axle, enabling rear-wheel output when extra traction is needed.
- Engagement is automatic and typically more noticeable on slippery surfaces, such as rain, snow, or gravel.
- Because it’s part of the hybrid drivetrain, AWD operation is designed to balance traction with overall efficiency.
- In normal dry conditions, the system may operate in FWD to maximize fuel economy, with AWD engaging as required.
Current status and practical alternatives
What buyers should know today
- In many markets today, the NX 300h badge is rarely used; the hybrid variant is generally represented by NX350h, with AWD commonly available on those models.
- All-wheel drive is typically offered on NX350h and NX450h+ in regions where those models are sold, though the precise availability varies by country and trim level.
- If you are shopping for a four-wheel-drive Lexus now, verify the drivetrain on the exact vehicle, especially if it is a used NX 300h or a model from a discontinued year.
Summary
