DIRECT4 AWD Deep Dive: How Lexus Tech Provides Confidence on Durham's Country Roads

Durham Region offers some of Ontario's most scenic driving routes, from the rolling hills near Port Perry to the winding roads around Lake Simcoe. These roads present unique challenges: elevation changes, varying surface conditions, and the kind of curves that demand precise vehicle control. Lexus DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive technology addresses these conditions with sophisticated torque management designed for both performance and safety.

DIRECT4 is an intelligent all-wheel drive system that constantly monitors and controls the amount of drive torque and braking force that is delivered between and across the vehicle's two axles. Unlike traditional mechanical all-wheel-drive systems, DIRECT4 uses electronic control to vary power distribution between front and rear axles in real-time, responding to road conditions and driver inputs with precision that mechanical systems cannot match.

Understanding Electronic Torque Distribution

DIRECT4 technology differs fundamentally from conventional all-wheel-drive systems. Where traditional systems rely on mechanical components to distribute power, DIRECT4 uses electronic control modules that monitor multiple vehicle sensors continuously. These sensors track wheel speed, steering angle, throttle position, and lateral acceleration to determine optimal power distribution for current conditions.

The system has the ability to adjust the front-to-rear balance according to prevailing conditions and driver input. The breadth of this flexibility can be anywhere between 100:0 and 20:80 and is delivered in a matter of milliseconds – more precisely than any mechanical system could.

Key DIRECT4 advantages include:

• Instant response time - Electronic control eliminates mechanical lag
• Precise power distribution - Infinitely variable torque split based on real-time conditions
• Fuel efficiency optimization - Front-wheel drive mode available during cruising
• Enhanced cornering stability - Rear power delivery improves handling through curves

Real-World Performance on Regional Roads

Consider a typical weekend drive from Ajax to Port Perry via Regional Road 21. This route features straight highway sections, rolling hills, and tighter curves as you approach Lake Scugog. DIRECT4 technology adapts continuously throughout this journey.

When pulling away, the system controls the ratio from between 60:40 and 40:60 in order to suppress front-end lift while maintaining a direct acceleration feel. When cornering, the system uses information such as vehicle speed and steering angle to determine drive force distribution and secure handling stability.

During highway cruising, the system operates primarily in front-wheel drive mode, maximizing fuel efficiency for the straight, stable portions of your route. As you transition to the more challenging sections with elevation changes and curves, sensors detect increased steering input and lateral forces, automatically sending power to the rear wheels to improve stability and traction.

Surface Adaptation Technology

Durham Region's roads present diverse surface challenges throughout the year. Spring brings fresh tar and gravel repairs, summer creates hot asphalt with varying grip levels, and autumn introduces leaf-covered surfaces that can dramatically reduce traction. DIRECT4 technology adapts to these changing conditions automatically.

Drive force is weighted towards the front axle (70:30 to 50:50) at the start of a turn, then progressively becomes more rear-biased (50:50 to 20:80) when exiting the corner, giving traction and maintaining overall stability.

The benefits of DIRECT4 are experienced in the following driving conditions:

• Standing start: drive force is delivered to all four wheels
• Straight line driving: vehicle remains steady at all times
• Entering a bend: change of direction is smooth
• Steering through a bend: steering provides feedback
• Accelerating out of a bend: easy for the driver to trace a faithful line
• Exiting a bend: confident, direct acceleration

Integration With Other Vehicle Systems

DIRECT4 doesn't operate in isolation—it works in conjunction with other vehicle stability and performance systems. The integration includes coordination with:

Adaptive Variable Suspension - Suspension adjustments complement torque distribution for optimal handling balance

Vehicle Stability Control - Electronic stability interventions work with DIRECT4 to prevent loss of control

Drive Mode Selection - Different driving modes alter DIRECT4 response characteristics to match intended driving style

Regenerative Braking - In hybrid applications, DIRECT4 coordinates with regenerative braking systems for seamless energy recovery

This systems integration creates a comprehensive approach to vehicle dynamics that responds to both road conditions and driver intentions.

Current Availability and Technology

Three Lexus models currently offer DIRECT4 technology: the RZ 450e, RX 500h, and TX 500h. The all-electric RZ 450e uses e-Axle units at both front and rear positions, while the hybrid RX 500h and TX 500h feature a single rear e-Axle working with their conventional front powertrains.

The e-Axle technology combines a high-torque electric motor, electronic control unit, and transaxle into one compact module. This integrated design allows the motor and transaxle to operate on the same plane, enabling faster torque distribution responses than traditional mechanical systems.

Experience this advanced all-wheel-drive capability for yourself with a test drive through Durham Region's diverse roads at Lexus of Lakeridge.