Is the Lexus NX hybrid 4 wheel drive?
Yes. In the current Lexus NX lineup, the hybrid variants are configured with all-wheel drive, with the NX 350h using Lexus’ E-Four system and the NX 450h+ offering plug-in all-wheel drive. The base NX 250 gasoline model can be front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive depending on trim and market.
How the NX hybrid drivetrain setups work
Understanding the drivetrain arrangements helps explain performance, traction, and efficiency for buyers considering a NX hybrid. Below is a concise look at how the main hybrid variants are configured.
NX 350h — Hybrid with all-wheel drive
The NX 350h combines a 2.5-liter engine with one or more electric motors to drive the wheels. In the United States, it uses Lexus’ E-Four all-wheel-drive system, adding an electric rear axle to help deliver traction in rain, snow, and uneven pavement. This setup aims to balance efficiency with improved grip without a traditional rear-mounted gasoline engine.
NX 450h+ — Plug-in hybrid with all-wheel drive
The NX 450h+ is a plug-in hybrid that shares the same hybrid architecture as the 350h but adds a larger battery and charging capability. It comes with all-wheel drive as standard and can run on electric power alone for shorter trips before the gasoline engine engages. The plug-in capability expands EV-range benefits for daily commuting and short-town drives.
NX 250 — Gas model with potential AWD
In markets where the NX 250 is available, buyers can typically choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, depending on trim and regional specifications. The NX 250’s drivetrain is separate from the hybrid variants, which are designed around AWD by default in many regions.
Note: Availability of FWD versus AWD for the NX lineup can vary by market and model year. Always confirm the exact configuration for your year and region when shopping.
What this means for buyers
For shoppers deciding whether a NX hybrid is right for them, the drive configuration affects weather handling, efficiency, and ownership costs. The following points summarize the practical implications.
- Traction and stability: AWD provides better grip in rain, sleet, and light snow, which is beneficial for area-specific driving conditions.
- Efficiency considerations: Both the NX 350h and NX 450h+ prioritize fuel efficiency, with the plug-in variant offering substantial electric range and the hybrid delivering strong mpg for its class.
- Charging and range: The NX 450h+ offers electric-only driving for short trips, while the 350h relies on hybrid electrification without plugging in.
- Cost and maintenance: AWD adds complexity and potentially higher maintenance costs, but Lexus packages often include AWD as part of the modern NX hybrid experience.
In short, if you want a Lexus NX with true all-wheel drive, the hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants are designed around AWD as a core feature in the current market. Those seeking a front-wheel-drive option would need to verify market-specific offerings, as the hybrid variants generally emphasize AWD configurations.
Summary
Across the current NX hybrid lineup, all-wheel drive is a defining characteristic, especially for the NX 350h and NX 450h+. The base NX 250 gas model may offer either FWD or AWD depending on trim and region, but the hybrid variants are built around AWD to enhance traction and handling in diverse conditions.
