The shift lever may be a simple device that helps connect car and driver, but beneath the gate lies complex mechanicals and technology that form the transmission system of your vehicle.
Without such a transmission it would not be possible for the engine or motor to transfer torque to the wheels – and there is little fun to be derived from a stationary car. What’s more, the transmission plays a vital role in generating the overall driving experience.
In view of these facts, we felt that a comprehensive, fact-filled post on the subject of transmissions was in order. Scroll down to discover what transmission types have been fitted to UK-specification Lexus models and how have these developed over the years.
Lexus Manual transmissions
The only model Lexus UK has ever specified with a manual transmission has been the IS saloon. A six-speed manual gearbox was standard equipment for all first-generation IS models, a feature that was unique within the compact executive car class at the time of its launch.
All derivatives of the second-generation IS were also equipped with a manual transmission as standard until the petrol-powered IS 250 became an automatic-only model from the 2011 model year onwards. Diesel models were only ever available with manual transmissions.
| MODEL | YEAR | GEARBOX | GEARS | DEFINING FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IS 200 | 1999> | J160 | 6 | Only car in class with six-speed gearbox |
| IS 250 | 2005> | RA62 | 6 | Triple-synchro mechanism from first to third |
| IS 220d | 2006> | RA63 | 6 | Rearward driveline developed from LS 430 |
| IS 200d | 2011> | RA63 | 6 | Closely related to RA62 in IS 250 |
Automatic transmissions – saloon
The vast majority of Lexus models that have ever been produced feature a self-shifting gearbox of one kind or another. Before the introduction of Lexus Hybrid Drive and its associated E-CVT technology, that meant the application of traditional torque converter type automatic transmissions.
The variety within this field of transmissions is astounding, yet it is possible to apply a couple of broad facts across the entire range. First, all of these automatic transmissions were developed and produced by partner Aisin AW in Japan. All variations come under the same ‘A’ family umbrella but use additional coding to differentiate specific variations. These include the number of gears and whether the unit is designed for rear- or all-wheel drivetrains.
| MODEL | YEAR | GEARBOX | GEARS | DEFINING FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IS 200 | 1999> | A45DE | 4 | ‘Intelligent’ technology learns driver’s style |
| IS 300 | 2001> | A650E | 5 | E-shift push-button gearchange system |
| IS 250 | 2005> | A960E | 6 | Sequential manual mode via paddle controls |
| IS F | 2008> | AA80E | 8 | Lock-up technology from second gear onwards |
| IS 250 | 2013> | A960E | 6 | Faster shift speeds and downshift throttle blips |
| IS 200t | 2015> | AA81E | 8 | First Lexus saloon to shift in line with G-forces |
| MODEL | YEAR | GEARBOX | GEARS | DEFINING FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS 300 | 1993> | A341E | 4 | Electronic control, shared with the Lexus LS 400 |
| GS 300 | 1998> | A650E | 5 | Shift time reduced by 46% over outgoing A341E |
| GS 430 | 2001> | A650E | 5 | Internals uprated to cope with torque of V8 |
| GS 300 | 2005> | A760E | 6 | Lock-up control from third through sixth |
| GS 430 | 2005> | A761E | 6 | AI-SHIFT alters gears to match road and driver |
| GS 460 | 2008> | AA80E | 8 | Smaller and lighter than outgoing A761E |
| GS 250 | 2012> | A960E | 6 | Features sequential manual shift mode |
| GS F | 2016> | AA80E | 8 | Shifts in line with G-force and throttle data |
| MODEL | YEAR | GEARBOX | GEARS | DEFINING FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LS 400 | 1990> | A341E | 4 | Reduces torque between gears for smoothness |
| LS 400 | 1995> | A340E | 4 | Revised gearing, more efficient torque converter |
| LS 400 | 1998> | A650E | 5 | Lock-up allowed in low gears, gate-type lever |
| LS 430 | 2000> | A650E | 5 | Automatic selection of lower gears downhill |
| LS 430 | 2003> | A761E | 6 | Closer ratios, wider range, sequential shift mode |
| LS 460 | 2007> | AA80E | 8 | World’s first eight-speed automatic transmission |
Automatic transmissions – coupe/convertible
| MODEL | YEAR | GEARBOX | GEARS | DEFINING FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IS 250C | 2009> | A960E | 6 | Faster gear changes in sequential mode |
| MODEL | YEAR | GEARBOX | GEARS | DEFINING FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SC 430 | 2001> | A650E | 5 | Line pressure optimised to engine output |
| SC 430 | 2005> | A761E | 6 | Closer ratios, wider range, sequential shift mode |
| MODEL | YEAR | GEARBOX | GEARS | DEFINING FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RC 200t | 2016> | AA81E | 8 | Directly derived from unit in RC F |
| RC F | 2014> | AA80E | 8 | Operates in five driver-selectable modes |
Automatic transmissions – SUV
| MODEL | YEAR | TrANSAXLE | GEARS | DEFINING FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX 200t | 2015> | U661F | 6 | Communicates with engine to calculate torque |
| MODEL | YEAR | TRANSAXLE | GEARS | DEFINING FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RX 300 | 2000> | U140F | 4 | Transaxle with integrated front/centre diff |
| RX 300 | 2003> | U151F | 5 | Multi-mode system offers sequential changes |
| RX 350 | 2006> | U151F | 5 | New shift control logic reduces gear change times |
| RX 200t | 2016> | U661E | 6 | Reduced-friction clutch and thrust bearings |
Automated sequential gearbox
As you might expect of a Lexus hypercar, the LFA’s automated sequential gearbox (ASG) is unique and unrelated to any previous Lexus model. It uses both an electric motor and advanced hydraulics to deliver the pressure and high fluid volumes needed to actuate the transmission and concentric clutch slave cylinder. Gearchange times are adjustable in seven stages – from 0.2 seconds for intense track work to 1.0 second for smooth cruising.
| MODEL | YEAR | GEARBOX | GEARS | DEFINING FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LFA | 2011> | RB60M | 6 | Advanced electro-hydraulic actuation |
Electronically-controlled continuously variable transmissions
Electronically controlled continuously variable transmissions (E-CVT) offer an infinite number of gears within a broad range of ratios, and simultaneously handle inputs coming from the petrol engine and electric motor.
The intelligence of E-CVT is evident by the fact that it selects the optimal – that is, most efficient – gear ratio for any situation by constantly analysing vehicle speed, road conditions, engine power and driver input. When that split-second passes, it moves imperceptibly to the next calculated ratio through a clever combination of planetary gears.
In order to increase the functional range of E-CVT, powerful GS 450h and LS 600h models use an additional two-stage speed reduction device (see image below) behind the output shaft of the electric motor, which allows the vehicle to offer rapid acceleration, relaxed high-speed cruising and higher top speeds. This device is directly related to the Multi Stage Hybrid system that will be found in the new Lexus LC 500h.
Below we have defined each E-CVT as either a gearbox or transaxle. Essentially, transaxle transmissions transfer torque from one direction to another, such as from the crankshaft to the front wheels in front- and four-wheel drive models. A traditional gearbox, on the other hand, usually follows the same longitudinal direction and directs torque to a separate rear differential.
| MODEL | YEAR | TransAXLE | DEFINING FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|
| CT 200h | 2011> | P410 | Lightweight casing similar in size to conventional gearbox |
| MODEL | YEAR | GEARBOX | DEFINING FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|
| IS 300h | 2013> | L210 | Sequential shift function via steering wheel paddles |
| MODEL | YEAR | GEARBOX | DEFINING FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS 450h | 2006> | L110 | World-first E-CVT with sequential shift function |
| GS 450h | 2012> | L110 | Two-stage speed reduction gears for optimal performance |
| GS 300h | 2013> | L210 | Four selectable drive modes, including EV mode |
| MODEL | YEAR | GEARBOX | DEFINING FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|
| RC 300h | 2016> | L210 | Six-step sequential gearchange function with paddles |
| MODEL | YEAR | GEARBOX | DEFINING FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|
| LS 600H | 2007> | L110F | Two-stage speed reduction gears for optimal performance |
| MODEL | YEAR | TransAXLE | DEFINING FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|
| NX 300h | 2014> | P314 | Torque control reduces pitching motion when off-road |
| NX 300h | 2014> | Q211 | Rear traction motor with transaxle assembly |
| MODEL | YEAR | T’AXLE | DEFINING FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|
| RX 400h | 2005> | P310 | Ball bearings and low viscosity oil reduce friction 30% |
| RX 400h | 2005> | Q211 | Rear traction motor with transaxle assembly |
| RX 450h | 2009> | P313 | First adoption of AI-SHIFT control on hybrid vehicle |
| RX 450h | 2009> | Q211 | Rear traction motor with transaxle assembly |
| RX 450h | 2016> | P313 | New water-cooled transmission oil cooler |
| RX 450h | 2016> | Q211 | Rear traction motor with transaxle assembly |
Multi Stage Hybrid transmission
The latest transmission development from Lexus is the Multi Stage Hybrid drive system, which will make its debut in the new Lexus LC 500h. It features all the elements of a traditional full hybrid powertrain, including a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine, a powerful electric motor and a lithium-ion battery, together with a four-speed automatic gearbox, mounted at the rear of the hybrid transmission.
Multi Stage Hybrid will provide Lexus with its first ‘M’ transmission mode on a full hybrid vehicle, allowing the driver to make direct and responsive gear changes and enjoy the most sporting and engaging drive yet from a Lexus hybrid.
To learn more about how Multi Stage Hybrid drive works, watch the video below.
Learn more: History of Lexus vehicles
On the new RX 450h what will the engine revs be at a steady 70mph cruise?
Hello. Thanks for commenting. RX 450h features an E-CVT, this is an intelligent transmission that has an infinite number of gear ratios at its disposal. By constantly analysing vehicle speed, road conditions, engine power and driver input, it selects the optimal (most efficient) gear ratio for that precise moment. For this reason we are unable to provide a rev range. When it is safe to do so and our showrooms are open again, we would advise you to test drive the RX 450h to experience the transmission for yourself. Thank you.
Hi
Does RX 350 2014 AWD Transmission fit in RX350 2007 AWD.
Hello Mohammed,
Thanks for contacting us. We would recommend getting in touch with Lexus in your region for further help with your query.
Thanks.
What is the maintenance procedure for oil change on the gearbox and the rear deferential (IS300h)?
Hello S,
Thank you for your comment.
If you could please provide us with your UK registration, we will then be able to look into this for you.
Thanks.
Hey! Thanks for the detailed explanation!
I watched some videos that talked about Toyota introducing a new CVT enhancement where it adds a “launch gear” into the CVT to make the vehicle more efficient and responsive when accelerating from stop. I’m curious what models have that kind of CVT? Specifically, I’m curious if the 2021 RX 450h is equipped with this kind of transmission.
Thank you!
Hi Daryl,
Our understanding is that the direct shift CVT is available on some non-hybrid models in other markets. Here in the UK, this transmission is not available. We recommend contacting Lexus in your region for more information.
Thanks
I’m looking for automatic transmission gear box for 2004 Lexus LS 430.
Hello Matthew,
Thank you for getting in touch.
We would recommend contacting Lexus in your region for further help with this.
Thanks.
Good afternoon.
What torque rated ra62 and ra 63 gearboxes?
Thank you.
Hello Aleksey,
Thanks for contacting us. We would recommend getting in touch with Lexus in your region for further help with your query.
Thanks.
Hi, what transmission is in the 2011 RX 350 and is it a long lasting one?
Hello Kal,
Thanks for contacting us.
The transmission in a UK specification 2011 RX 350 is a 6 speed automatic.
However, we would recommend contacting Lexus in your region for more specific information.
Thanks.
Good Day
My IS250 Lately started with shifting problems almost like have this rubber band effect when engaging. I contacted Lexus and they referred me to transmission repair sites as replacing the whole one is too expensive for old car but the repair site asked if its a BE or BF and i only know that its the A960E. What are they referring to with these two derivative
Hello Deon,
Thank you for getting in touch with us.
We are only able to advise on UK specification Lexus vehicles.
Please contact Lexus in your region for further advice on this.
Thanks.
Hi,
I have a 2005 GS 430. The auto transmission, 6 speed , an A761E I believe, has died. There are very few gs430 used transmissions available, but there are some available for the ls430 and the sc430, both 6 speed A761e. They do have different part numbers however.
Would either of these work in my GS 430, or are these differences between them all?
Many thanks
Olie
Hello Olie,
We would recommend taking your vehicle to your nearest Lexus Centre to see what options are available.
Thanks.
Dear Olie
I too have a 2005 GS430 and its gearbox had died, because there is a design fault and the coolant pipe runs through the gearbox; once the pipe is corroded, the coolant liquid leaks inside the gearbox and this is the end. I obtained a replacement second-hand gearbox that had been fitted to an SC430, and it fitted seamlessly. One other thing, to stop any leak in the future, please have a mini radiator fitted to keep the gearbox cool, and not let the coolant pass through the refitted gearbox.