I don’t think Lexus is the reason why there was never an FWD-based AWD 2GR. It simply doesn’t fit. If it was because of Lexus, then the ES350 2GR would have AWD, but it doesn’t. The AWD only exists on the old RWD-based platform and even in that guise, only fit their old 6-speed transmission (god, the fuel economy of the IS is atrocious).
The shame is that Toyota regurgitates the same 15-20 year old tech. But glad to see this next generational jump they’re finally committing to! The new Crown, Prius, NX, etc. are super impressive. The decade+ old platformed IS, RC, UX…eh not so much, but we’ll get there eventually.
I don’t think Lexus is the reason why there was never an FWD-based AWD 2GR. It simply doesn’t fit. If it was because of Lexus, then the ES350 2GR would have AWD, but it doesn’t. The AWD only exists on the old RWD-based platform and even in that guise, only fit their old 6-speed transmission (god, the fuel economy of the IS is atrocious).
The shame is that Toyota regurgitates the same 15-20 year old tech. But glad to see this next generational jump they’re finally committing to! The new Crown, Prius, NX, etc. are super impressive. The decade+ old platformed IS, RC, UX…eh not so much, but we’ll get there eventually.