All-Wheel Drive at Lexus: Two Top-Notch Systems
August 30 2020, Lexus Laval
At Lexus, our mission is to offer the ultimate in luxury, but also the ultimate in driving. When conditions deteriorate, that means having a competent all-wheel drive system. In fact, because the Lexus lineup is so diverse, there are two different designs.
First, the majority of models that offer four-wheel drive have an all-wheel drive system. This is a reactive type of all-wheel drive system. It analyzes the road conditions that the vehicle is experiencing at all times and, if it detects slippage or the slightest loss of grip, it ensures that the necessary power is transmitted to the wheels that need it. This way, no matter what surface you're on, you always enjoy maximum traction.
To add to its efficiency, it also has a complementary application called Lexus Cornering Control. It automatically adjusts the driving forces to counter understeer or oversteer, but only when the situation requires it. In this way, the vehicle equipped with it operates in two-wheel drive mode, which promotes fuel economy.
Then, to serve the GX and LX SUVs, whose off-road capabilities are legendary, a different system is at work. This system distributes power to all four wheels at all times to ensure maximum grip at all times and on all types of terrain. This system is complemented by the A-TRAC active traction control system. When a wheel slips or loses traction, the system brakes it and sends its energy to the wheels that still have grip.
The efficiency of this way of doing things is optimal and it guarantees constant contact with the road... or off-road trail.
Either way, as we've just seen, you're safe at all times with Lexus four-wheel drive systems.
