2025 Lexus NX

Pros

• Stylish house.
• Features a number of helpful things right from the start.
• You can obtain excellent gas mileage with the optional NX hybrid variant.

Cons

• Some settings can be annoying to use.
• There is no more room for luggage and back seats than most of its rivals.

How does the NX get power? Our tests showed that the F Sport model provides a nice blend of features and comfort. On our test track, it took a while to reach 60 mph, but the turbocharged engine can pass slower traffic and reach highway speeds. The eight-speed automatic shifts smoothly but slowly.

In our 60-mph panic-braking test, our NX 350 F Sport went 117 feet, which was longer than typical. When moving, the NX’s brakes are smooth and easy to use. Despite how easy it is to drive, the NX isn’t exactly thrilling. When we turned corners, our test vehicle’s F Sport option cut down on body roll.

How does it feel to wear the NX? We tested the NX 350 F Sport, which rides safely and closely without being stiff. F Sport seats are as soft and comfortable as NX chairs but offer extra support. Support and form were better than average in our NX test back seats, and warming and cooling functioned effectively.

Most temperature controls are straightforward to find and use. We felt the central vents were too low on a hot day, but the three-zone climate system kept the temperature steady. There isn’t much wind or noise inside, but we did hear more tire hum than we thought.

How is the inside? The NX’s cabin shows Lexus’s famously high level of attention to detail, along with some design choices that are hard to understand and sometimes just plain bad. The 14-inch touchscreen monitor stands out due to its quickness and high-quality display.

When we should have been in drive, we easily picked neutral due to the shift lever’s peculiar movement. The lack of labeling for the controls on the steering wheel makes matters worse. Lexus succeeded in making them adaptable, but the head-up display is their one redeeming quality, and even the most basic of duties requires considerable concentration.

Different body shapes can easily find a comfortable driving posture on the NX. Although the rear seat does not offer the same level of legroom as the BMW X3 and Acura RDX, the majority of passengers will still find it comfortable. The large central screen also has the advantage of being able to accommodate a quality backup camera and, if one is equipped, a surround-view video system. Because of this, NX has an easier time navigating confined areas.

What’s wrong with the tech? We could have added the attractive 14-inch screen to our test car. Quick answers and pictures that are clear and easy to read are good, but the menu layout could use some work. Our test car had a 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system installed. The upgrade is powerful and clear, so it’s worth the extra money.

Despite having wireless access, most cell phones don’t have navigation apps. Lexus charges every two years after the free trial to use the cloud-based service. The NX’s voice settings enable you to choose the radio station and activate the wipers. They were disappointed by their slow response.

The NX comes with Lexus’ Safety System+ 3.0, which has almost all current driver aids. Despite poor reaction times, no false alarms occurred.

What’s going on with storage? Compared to its competitors, the NX has a weaker holding power. Compared to the BMW X3 and Acura RDX, which both offer 31.1 cubes of space behind the rear seats, the NX only manages 22.7 cubes. That being said, the NX’s large cargo space and lack of wheelwell breaches make it easy to move big, heavy things. Automatically collapsible rear seats are available.

Although the NX’s storage space is smaller than that of some of its rivals, it is more than adequate for storing individual belongings. We like the roomy storage area in the center console under the armrests and the hidden compartment beneath the optional wireless charging pad.

Finding a compact luxury SUV with good towing capacity isn’t always the first priority. But keep in mind that the NX 350 can only pull 2,000 pounds when it’s properly equipped. Similar cars, like the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC 300, can pull up to 4,400 pounds and 3,500 pounds, respectively.

How much fuel does it use? The EPA estimates that the NX 350, equipped with all-wheel drive, will achieve 24 combined highway and city mpg. It is common for this SUV type to do that. Through 115 miles of mixed-urban and interstate driving, we achieved an exact 25 mpg. We nearly achieved the same mileage on a second tank of gas after including more city driving. The Lexus will achieve its EPA targets despite the fact that consistency is more challenging in this class. The NX 350 requires premium fuel because it is comparable to other cars in its class.

Does the NX have any value? The NX 350 is a good buy. The NX 350 has a plethora of innovative driver aids, including standard all-wheel drive—something that competitors in its price range don’t provide. The inside is also well-designed, which is a plus.

Lexus’s industry-standard bumper-to-bumper warranty is four years or 50,000 miles, and the engine warranty is six years or 70,000 kilometers. Maintenance is free for one year, and roadside assistance is offered for four years at no extra cost.

At first glance, it can be difficult to tell what the NX 350 will offer. However, the NX isn’t broken in any way, and Lexus has made many adjustments. Despite the weak engine, the ride is smooth and controlled. The high levels of comfort and good everyday usability also make up for the smaller interior and lack of cargo room.

We can’t deny that the name always suggests high-quality construction and a stress-free environment. The NX does not trade off sport and luxury, unlike other SUVs on the market that prioritize sport over luxury or vice versa.

We think the NX 350 with the Premium package is a great choice overall. We like the strong engine for starts, and the Premium package adds many nice features. It also stays near the bottom of the NX’s price range, making it a great deal.

Types of Lexus NX

The 2025 Lexus NX is a small luxury SUV that comes in four main styles: the NX 250, the NX 350, the NX 350h, and the NX 450h+. Although it may be challenging to grasp at first, the engine is frequently the sole differentiating factor among models in this range. The NX 250’s 2.5-liter inline-four engine produces 203 horsepower. All other NX models, save for this one, feature all-wheel drive.