Drifting in the USA: The Rise of Toyota and Lexus in the Drift Scene

When it comes to the world of drifting, few automotive brands have the same cultural impact and performance pedigree as Toyota and Lexus. Known for their precision engineering, reliability, and performance, both brands have become synonymous with success in the drift community. In the United States, Toyota and Lexus vehicles have earned a loyal following among both professional and grassroots drifters, offering platforms that are not only capable of handling intense drifts but also iconic in their own right.

The Origins of Drifting: From Japan to the USA

Before diving into the U.S. drift scene, it’s essential to understand where it all began. The art of drifting traces its roots back to Japan in the 1970s and 80s, where racing drivers on mountain roads began mastering the technique of maintaining oversteer through corners while keeping speed and control. This revolutionary driving style became the foundation for the modern motorsport known as drifting.

Enter Toyota—the brand’s AE86, also known as the "Hachiroku," became a cult favorite among Japanese drifters. Its lightweight design, rear-wheel-drive layout, and highly tunable engine made it an ideal car for drift enthusiasts looking for balance, precision, and a thrilling driving experience.

Drifting in America: How Toyota and Lexus Took the Stage

By the early 2000s, drifting had made its way to the United States. The sport exploded in popularity with the launch of Formula DRIFT (Formula D) in 2003, becoming a staple in the U.S. motorsport community. As American drivers started looking for the perfect cars to take on the challenges of drifting, Toyota and Lexus vehicles emerged as top choices. Thanks to their rear-wheel-drive setups, balanced weight distribution, and performance potential, these cars were ideal for the sport.

The Toyota Supra: A Drifting Legend

One car that has cemented itself as a legend in both traditional racing and drifting is the Toyota Supra. The fourth-generation Supra (JZA80), launched in the early 1990s, became an icon thanks to its incredible performance, particularly its 2JZ-GTE engine. This engine is a favorite among tuners because of its ability to handle immense power with only minor modifications. Combined with a rear-wheel-drive platform, the Toyota Supra quickly became a favorite among professional drifters and hobbyists alike.

The modern Toyota Supra A90, developed in partnership with BMW, continues the Supra’s legacy in drifting. While the car has sparked some debate among enthusiasts due to its shared development, it remains a highly capable drift machine with its power and agility, making it a regular feature in drift events across the U.S.

Lexus: The Unlikely Drift Hero

While Lexus is primarily known for its luxury cars, the brand has earned a surprising amount of respect in the drifting community, particularly in the United States. Models like the Lexus GS300, GS400, and GS430—sometimes referred to as “sleepers” in the automotive world—are powerful and reliable, making them excellent platforms for drifting.

The GS300, equipped with the same 2JZ engine found in the Supra, offers a solid base for drift modifications. Meanwhile, the V8-powered GS400 and GS430 models provide the torque necessary to break traction and perform controlled slides, all while delivering a luxurious driving experience. The Lexus RC F, with its aggressive styling and V8 engine, has also been seen in professional drifting events, demonstrating that Lexus has much more to offer than just luxury.

The Lexus IS300: A Grassroots Drift Favorite

One of the most beloved models in grassroots drifting is the Lexus IS300. Often called the "baby Supra" by enthusiasts, the IS300 boasts the same 2JZ-GE engine found in the Toyota Supra, though in a naturally aspirated form. Its rear-wheel-drive layout, balanced chassis, and affordable price make it a favorite among beginner and experienced drifters alike.

The IS300’s 2JZ engine, though lacking the turbocharged punch of its Supra counterpart, still offers plenty of tuning potential. Many drifters opt to turbocharge the IS300's engine or swap in the more powerful 2JZ-GTE to achieve higher horsepower for drift competitions. The car's well-balanced weight distribution, stiff chassis, and suspension geometry make it particularly well-suited for drifting, offering predictability and control when sliding through corners.

Another reason the IS300 is so popular in the U.S. drift scene is its availability and affordability. Unlike some of its high-performance counterparts, the IS300 is relatively easy to find on the used market at a reasonable price. This makes it an excellent entry point for drifters looking to build a competitive drift car without breaking the bank. In local drift events and practice sessions across the country, the IS300 has become a common sight, often heavily modified with suspension upgrades, angle kits, and drift-specific modifications.

For those interested in drifting but still wanting a daily driver, the IS300 offers the perfect blend of practicality and performance. Its four-door layout and luxurious interior make it a comfortable commuter during the week, while its RWD setup and drift potential make it a weekend warrior on the track.

Grassroots Drifting: Toyota and Lexus at Local Drift Events

At the grassroots level, Toyota and Lexus vehicles are staples in the drift community. Affordable and widely available models like the Toyota IS300, SC300, and even older vehicles like the Toyota Cressida have gained popularity among American drifters. These cars are celebrated for their durability, ease of modification, and strong aftermarket support—key factors for anyone looking to get into drifting without breaking the bank.

In local drift events across the U.S., Toyota and Lexus cars are a common sight. Whether it’s a beginner learning to drift or a seasoned pro, the accessibility and tunability of these cars make them ideal for both competition and practice.

The Future of Drifting with Toyota and Lexus

As drifting continues to evolve, Toyota and Lexus are sure to remain at the forefront. Both brands are embracing hybrid and electric technology, which could shape the future of the sport. However, their commitment to performance remains strong, ensuring that future generations of Toyota and Lexus vehicles will continue to be key players in the drift scene.

Whether you’re a professional driver in Formula D or a grassroots enthusiast, Toyota and Lexus offer a wide range of cars that combine performance, reliability, and a bit of luxury. From the iconic Toyota Supra to the underrated Lexus IS300 and GS series, these vehicles have carved out a special place in the heart of American drifting culture—and they’re here to stay.