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 dynamic handling, 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 are iconic in their own right.

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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 mastered the technique of maintaining oversteer through corners while keeping speed and control. This revolutionary style laid the foundation for the modern motorsport known as drifting.

Enter Toyota—the brand’s AE86, affectionately called the "Hachiroku," became a cult favorite among Japanese drifters. Its lightweight design, rear-wheel-drive layout, and highly tunable engine made it the ideal machine for enthusiasts seeking 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 with the launch of Formula DRIFT (Formula D) in 2003, quickly becoming a staple in U.S. motorsport culture. As American drivers sought the perfect cars to conquer drift courses, Toyota and Lexus vehicles emerged as top choices. Thanks to their rear-wheel-drive setups, balanced weight distribution, and impressive performance potential, these cars were built for the art of sideways driving.

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The Toyota Supra: A Drifting Legend

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

The modern Toyota Supra A90, developed in partnership with BMW, continues the Supra’s drifting legacy. Despite sparking debate among purists, the A90’s power, agility, and responsiveness have made it a regular competitor at drift events across the U.S.

Lexus: The Unlikely Drift Hero

Although Lexus is traditionally known for luxury, several of its models have earned serious respect in the drifting community thanks to their hidden performance potential. Models like the Lexus GS300, GS400, and GS430—often dubbed “sleepers”—deliver powerful engines and solid reliability, making them excellent platforms for drift builds.

The GS300, equipped with the non-turbo 2JZ-GE engine, offers a strong base for modification, while the V8-powered GS400 and GS430 bring the torque necessary for controlled slides. Even the aggressive, V8-powered Lexus RC F has appeared in professional drifting events, proving that Lexus performance can match its luxury appeal.

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," the IS300 features the naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE engine and a rear-wheel-drive layout. Its balanced chassis, responsive handling, and affordability make it a favorite for both beginner and seasoned drifters.

The IS300’s 2JZ engine may lack a turbo from the factory, but it offers massive tuning potential. Many drifters opt to turbocharge the engine or swap in a 2JZ-GTE for higher horsepower. With its stiff chassis and well-balanced suspension geometry, the IS300 is predictably controllable in drift situations, offering confidence through every corner.

Another major draw is its availability and affordability. Unlike rarer high-performance models, the IS300 is relatively easy to find at reasonable prices. This accessibility makes it the perfect entry point for aspiring drifters. At local drift events across the country, the IS300 is a common sight, often heavily modified with coilovers, angle kits, and other drift-specific upgrades.

For those who want a capable drift car without sacrificing daily drivability, the IS300 strikes the perfect balance between practicality and performance.

Grassroots Drifting: Toyota and Lexus at Local Drift Events

At the grassroots level, Toyota and Lexus vehicles are staples in the drift community. Affordable, durable models like the Toyota IS300, SC300, and even the older Toyota Cressida have earned widespread popularity among American drifters. Their durability, ease of modification, and strong aftermarket support make them ideal platforms for anyone looking to start their drift journey without breaking the bank.

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At local drift events across the U.S., it's common to see Toyota and Lexus cars sliding sideways—whether piloted by beginners testing their skills or seasoned pros honing their technique.

The Future of Drifting with Toyota and Lexus

As drifting continues to evolve, Toyota and Lexus remain committed to performance innovation. With both brands exploring hybrid and electric technology, the future of drifting may soon involve cars that blend instant electric torque with traditional rear-wheel-drive thrills. Whatever the technology, Toyota and Lexus are poised to remain major players in the next chapter of the sport.

Whether you’re competing in Formula D or sliding at a grassroots event, Toyota and Lexus offer platforms that combine performance, reliability, and a touch of luxury. From the iconic Toyota Supra to the beloved Lexus IS300 and GS series, these cars have carved out a special place in American drifting culture—and their influence shows no signs of slowing down.