New Brunswick drivers know that road conditions change fast. One minute you're cruising through Saint John's downtown core, and the next you're navigating a winding coastal route with unpredictable weather rolling in off the Bay of Fundy. Every 2025 Lexus RX comes standard with electronically controlled full-time all-wheel drive—essential equipment for Maritime driving.
The RX's AWD system works continuously to monitor road conditions and distribute power where needed. This full-time setup keeps all four wheels actively contributing to traction before problems develop. From the cobblestone streets of uptown Saint John to frost-covered highways between Fredericton and Moncton, the RX adjusts power delivery to maintain grip in changing conditions.
At a Glance: 2025 RX AWD System
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Feature
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Benefit
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Electronically Controlled Full-Time AWD
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Continuously active power distribution for all conditions
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Multiple Drive Modes
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Customizable settings including Trail Mode for challenging terrain
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206 mm Ground Clearance
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Adequate height for rural roads and light off-road situations
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Advanced Traction Control
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Works with AWD for enhanced stability on New Brunswick's varied surfaces
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Performance That Adapts to Maritime Conditions
The 2025 RX lineup offers three distinct powertrain options, each with standard AWD tailored to different driving needs. The RX 350 pairs its 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque with the full-time AWD system for confident acceleration in any weather. Fuel efficiency remains practical at 9.9L/100km combined, making it suitable for both city commuting and longer drives to places like Grand Manan Island.
For enhanced efficiency without sacrificing capability, the RX 350h hybrid combines a 2.5L engine with electric assistance to generate 246 system horsepower while achieving an impressive 6.5L/100km fuel efficiency rating. The hybrid's instant electric torque delivery works particularly well with the AWD system during challenging starts on icy mornings or steep Maritime hills.
The performance-focused RX 500h takes a different approach with its turbocharged hybrid system producing 367 system horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. This model features the advanced DIRECT 4 AWD system that can distribute torque more precisely between front and rear axles based on driving conditions and demands.
Trail Mode: Beyond Pavement
New Brunswick's rural roads and seasonal access routes sometimes demand more than standard highway capability. Every RX includes Trail Mode, which adjusts the AWD system's behaviour for loose gravel, snow, or unimproved surfaces. This mode modifies throttle response, transmission shift points, and traction control settings to help maintain forward progress when road surfaces become challenging.
The system works well for cottage access roads, winter driving on unplowed surfaces, or navigating construction zones where temporary gravel routes are common throughout the province. While the RX isn't designed for serious off-road adventures, Trail Mode provides the extra capability needed for real-world Maritime driving situations.
- Optimized power delivery for low-traction surfaces
- Adjusted throttle mapping prevents wheel spin in loose conditions
- Modified shift patterns keep the engine in its optimal power band
- Enhanced stability control works with AWD for predictable handling
Regional Advantages for New Brunswick Drivers
The Maritime climate presents unique challenges that make AWD particularly valuable. Spring's freeze-thaw cycles create unpredictable road surfaces, while autumn brings wet leaves that can be surprisingly slippery. The RX's full-time system handles these transitions seamlessly, automatically adjusting power distribution as conditions change.
Winter driving confidence comes from more than just the AWD system itself. The RX's sophisticated traction and stability control systems work together with the AWD to prevent issues before they develop. When combined with proper winter tires, this creates a driving experience that handles New Brunswick's winter conditions with composure.
The system also provides benefits during the warmer months. Summer thunderstorms can create sudden patches of standing water on highways, and the AWD system helps maintain control during these brief but challenging moments. Coastal fog that rolls in quickly along routes like Highway 1 often brings dampness that affects road surfaces, making the constant AWD engagement particularly valuable.
Which RX AWD is Right for You?
Each RX model serves different priorities while maintaining the same AWD foundation. The RX 350 offers the most straightforward approach—proven turbocharged power with full-time AWD for drivers who want reliable capability without complexity. Its 9.9L/100km fuel efficiency makes it practical for regular commuting between New Brunswick's major centres.
The RX 350h appeals to drivers prioritizing fuel efficiency without sacrificing AWD capability. At 6.5L/100km combined, it delivers substantial savings over time while providing the same all-weather confidence as other models in the lineup. The hybrid's electric motor assistance also provides smooth, quiet operation that's well-suited to New Brunswick's scenic driving routes.
For those wanting maximum performance with AWD capability, the RX 500h combines serious power output with the advanced DIRECT 4 system. This model handles everything from highway merging to challenging driving conditions with authority, though fuel consumption increases to 8.6L/100km to support the higher performance level.
Experience the RX AWD at Lexus of Saint John
The 2025 RX's standard AWD system transforms how you approach New Brunswick's diverse driving conditions. From downtown Saint John's urban environment to the province's rural highways and seasonal routes, this intelligent system provides the traction and confidence that Maritime drivers need year-round. Book your test drive today at our Saint John dealership to experience how full-time AWD changes your relationship with New Brunswick's roads.
