How Does the 2026 Lexus TX 500h DIRECT4 System Work? The 366-HP Hybrid AWD Powertrain Explained

The 2026 Lexus TX 500h F SPORT Performance grades bring a different set of priorities to the three-row luxury SUV segment. Built around a 2.4 L turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid-electric powertrain that produces 366 combined system horsepower and 409 lb-ft of torque, the TX 500h uses the Lexus DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system — a force distribution control architecture that adjusts power between the front and rear axles continuously based on wheel speed, acceleration, and steering angle. In a three-row SUV, those are numbers that change the feel of the vehicle on entry ramps, through tight corners, and in mixed winter conditions.

Two F SPORT Performance grades are available for the TX 500h: F SPORT Performance 2 and F SPORT Performance 3. Both share the same hybrid powertrain, DIRECT4 AWD, and F SPORT chassis calibration. What differs between them is the technology and audio content at the top of the range.

The TX 500h Hybrid Powertrain

Every TX 500h starts with a 2.4 L turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and sequential shift mode. An e-Axle rear differential provides the rear motor power that completes the DIRECT4 system. Combined output is 366 hp and 409 lb-ft of torque, with a manufacturer-estimated fuel efficiency of 8.6 L/100 km (city/highway combined).

The DIRECT4 system distinguishes the TX 500h powertrain from a conventional AWD setup. It does not simply split torque between front and rear on a fixed ratio. It monitors driver inputs and road conditions continuously, distributing power to optimize both traction and handling. Under acceleration from a standstill, the system biases toward rear torque. Through corners, it adjusts to keep the vehicle balanced. Lexus designed DIRECT4 alongside the RX 500h powertrain and has applied the same system to the TX 500h in a three-row body — the only three-row hybrid SUV in the lineup to use it.

• System output: 366 hp
• Torque: 409 lb-ft
• Fuel economy: 8.6 L/100 km combined
• Drivetrain: DIRECT4 AWD (continuously variable torque distribution)
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic with sequential shift mode
• Towing capacity: 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg)

F SPORT Performance Chassis and Suspension

Both TX 500h F SPORT Performance grades use Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) as standard — a system that monitors driving inputs and road conditions to continuously adjust damping force. Front and rear performance rods come standard as well, providing additional body stiffness for sharper turn-in. The overall chassis setup is tuned for more driver engagement than the TX 350 configurations while still supporting three-row family use.

The TX rides on 22-inch F SPORT alloy wheels across both Performance grades. Ground clearance is 203 mm.

F SPORT Performance 2: Standard Equipment

The TX 500h F SPORT Performance 2 establishes the core F SPORT TX package. Standard features include:

• 22-inch F SPORT alloy wheels
• F SPORT front grille, bumpers, and sport pedals
• Panoramic moon roof with black roof rails
• Heated and ventilated front and second-row seats
• Power folding third-row seats
• Adaptive Variable Suspension and front and rear performance rods
• Active Sound Control
• 14-inch Lexus Interface touchscreen with Drive Connect
• 12.3-inch multi-information display
• Digital key, digital rear-view mirror
• Power back door with kick sensor
• Multi-colour ambient interior illumination
• Leather upholstery with leather-wrapped shift knob
• Black brake callipers

F SPORT Performance 3: Upgraded Package

The TX 500h F SPORT Performance 3 builds on the Performance 2 foundation, adding:

• Head-up display
• Adaptive High Beam system
• 21-speaker Mark Levinson L2 premium audio system
• 1,500-watt inverter
• Advanced Park system
• Panoramic View Monitor
• Traffic Jam Assist
• Lane Change Assist
• Front Cross Traffic Alert

TX 500h F SPORT Performance 2 vs. Performance 3

The Towing Hitch Option

Both F SPORT Performance grades are available with an optional towing hitch — ordered as "F SPORT Performance 2 + Towing Hitch" or "F SPORT Performance 3 + Towing Hitch." Adding the Class IV towing hitch allows the TX 500h to reach its full 5,000-lb (2,268 kg) towing rating and is the recommended choice for buyers who plan to pull a trailer, boat, or toy hauler.

Is the TX 500h F SPORT Performance Right for You?

The TX 500h makes the most sense for buyers who need genuine three-row capacity — six passengers with second-row captain's chairs — but want a powertrain that actively responds to driving inputs rather than just moving the vehicle forward. The 366-hp DIRECT4 system delivers confident performance in all conditions, and the 5,000-lb (2,268 kg) towing capacity opens up practical utility options for active families.

The Performance 2 is the pick for buyers who want the full F SPORT chassis and drivetrain package at a lower entry point. The Performance 3 adds the Mark Levinson audio, Advanced Park, and a head-up display for buyers who want the maximum technology package in the TX hybrid.

Learn More at Lexus of Lakeridge

Visit the team at Lexus of Lakeridge in Ajax to explore the TX 500h F SPORT Performance grades and get a closer look at the DIRECT4 hybrid powertrain.