The All-Wheel Drive System that Ensures the Winter Performance of the 2023 Lexus RX
October 20 2022,
The all-new 2023 Lexus RX is available with three different all-wheel drive systems that vary depending on the engine that is found under the hood. All three of these technologies contribute to making the new RX one of the safest vehicles to drive in winter.
The Full-Time AWD
The gasoline-powered 2023 Lexus RX 350 uses a physical coupler to transfer the engine’s power to the rear axle. Since this system employs a full-time design, there is never a delay between wheel slippage and the transfer of power, which makes driving on snow or ice more stable and more confidence-inspiring. This system can vary the distribution of power between 75:25 front to rear and 50:50 in situations where the grip of the front wheels is not sufficient. Favouring traction to the front wheels under normal driving circumstances also favours the fuel efficiency of the RX 350.
The E-Four system
Due to its hybrid powertrain, the 2023 Lexus RX 350h is equipped with a different all-wheel-drive system that makes use of the battery. By placing a small electric motor on the rear axle in addition to the front motor and the gasoline engine, this system can electronically affect the power output that is sent to the front or the rear wheels in order to provide the best traction and stability possible. Since electric motors are involved, drivers can benefit from an instant torque response that boosts the vehicle up to speed quickly and with almost no noise. The Plug-in hybrid model (450h+) also uses a similar powertrain.
The Direct4 system
The top-of-the-line 2023 Lexus RX 500h FSport uses the Direct4 technology, which is similar to the all-wheel drive system used in the RX 350h and 450h+. The key differences are the power of the rear electric motor and the system’s ability to send more power to the rear wheels than the front ones, in certain conditions. This allows the sportiest version of the RX to better transfer its power to the road while also making it more capable on snow.
