Choosing the right SUV involves balancing luxury, performance, and crucially, reliability. For discerning drivers who prioritize peace of mind alongside opulence, Lexus SUVs have consistently risen to the top. Renowned for their exceptional build quality and dependability, Lexus has cultivated a legacy of producing vehicles that not only pamper occupants but also stand the test of time. If you’re in the market for a vehicle that minimizes maintenance worries while maximizing driving pleasure, exploring the Lexus SUV lineup is a smart move. This article delves into the most reliable Lexus SUVs available today, guiding you towards the best choices for your needs. We’ll analyze models from the past five years, encompassing gasoline, hybrid, and electric powertrains, to provide a comprehensive overview of Lexus’s commitment to enduring quality in its SUV range. Drawing upon expert evaluations and owner experiences, we present a ranked list to help you pinpoint the Best Lexus Suv that truly delivers on the promise of reliability.
Lexus NX: Entry-Level Luxury with a Focus on Comfort
Reliability Score: 6.3/10
Front quarter view of a gray 2024 Lexus NX F Sport parked on a paved surface
The Lexus NX, while positioned as the entry point in Lexus’s SUV family, doesn’t compromise on the brand’s core values of comfort and luxury. While sharing its foundation with the Toyota RAV4, the NX distinguishes itself with unique styling cues, premium interior materials, and a driving experience tailored for refinement. It offers a range of powertrains to suit various preferences, from efficient city commuting to comfortable long-distance travel. Although not the most agile handler in its class, the NX prioritizes a smooth ride and supportive front seats, making it a pleasant companion for extended drives.
| Engine | 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 275 HP |
| Torque | 317 LB-FT |
Reliability Performance
Front three quarter view of a red 2024 Lexus NX parked in a studio setting
The Lexus NX demonstrates respectable reliability within the luxury compact SUV segment. With an average annual maintenance cost of $690, it presents an affordable ownership experience relative to its class without sacrificing the quality expected from Lexus. While it has had a couple of recalls, the overall picture for the NX is positive, particularly in more recent model years. Earlier models, like the 2015 NX200t, faced some issues with ABS and airbags, but Lexus has addressed these concerns in subsequent iterations. The current generation NX, introduced in 2022, has largely maintained its design and feature set, with minor updates focusing on cosmetic enhancements and expanded standard equipment for the 2025 model year. Despite a slightly lower reliability score compared to other Lexus SUVs, the NX remains an appealing option, especially considering its diverse trim levels and powertrain choices.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $690
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,136
- Total Recalls: 2
- Worst NX Year To Buy Used: 2015 Lexus NX200t: ABS and airbag issues
Lexus UX: Compact and Efficient Urban Luxury
Reliability Score: 7.1/10
Front three quarter view of a blue 2025 Lexus UXh F SPORT Street Shot parked on a city street
The Lexus UX serves as the gateway to the Lexus brand, offering a compact SUV that’s perfectly suited for urban environments. Its smaller footprint doesn’t detract from its luxurious essence, as the UX boasts a refined interior and meticulous attention to detail. Notably, the UX stands out in its class by prioritizing fuel efficiency with its hybrid powertrain. The updated UX300h for 2025 enhances this further, featuring a more powerful hybrid system that generates 196 horsepower from its 2.0-liter inline-four engine and dual electric motors.
| Engine | 2.0-liter four-cylinder and dual electric motors |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Continuously variable transmission |
| Horsepower | 196 HP |
| Torque | 131 LB-FT |
Reliability Performance
Front three quarter view of a white 2025 Lexus UX 300h driving on a city street
While the 2024 UX Hybrid’s reliability score is slightly below the typical Lexus benchmark, it’s important to note Lexus’s overall strong reputation for long-term dependability. The updated 2025 UX Hybrid aims to elevate the model back to the high standards Lexus owners expect. The UX has a clean record with zero recalls, suggesting a solid foundation for reliability. The 2025 model year sees the UX streamlined to a single variant, the UX300h, replacing the previous UX250h and offering increased power and updated technology, including a larger optional touchscreen and improved driver assistance features.
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst UX Year To Buy Used: 2019 Lexus UX200: Front-wheel drive and lowest powered
Interior view of the dashboard and infotainment screen of a 2025 Lexus UX 300h
Lexus RZ: Pioneering Electric Luxury SUV Reliability
Reliability Score: 7.9/10
Front three quarter view of a gray 2024 Lexus RZ 300e Luxury parked in a studio setting
The Lexus RZ, launched for the 2023 model year, marks Lexus’s entry into the all-electric SUV segment. As expected from Lexus, the RZ prioritizes luxury, featuring a plush cabin with high-quality materials and a ride focused on comfort. It offers ample space for five passengers, making it a practical choice for families. The RZ’s primary drawback is its range, which, depending on the configuration and wheel size, ranges from 196 to 266 miles according to EPA estimates. For 2024, Lexus introduced a front-wheel-drive version to improve range, but it still lags behind some competitors in this aspect.
| Powertrain | Single or dual electric motors |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 1-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 201 HP – 308 HP |
| Torque | 196.4 LB-FT – 320.7 LB-FT |
Reliability Performance
Side view of a blue 2024 Lexus RZ in motion on a highway
Despite being a relatively new model, the Lexus RZ has quickly established itself as a reliable electric SUV. Consumer Reports awarded it a 79/100 reliability score, naming it the most reliable electric SUV for 2024. This strong showing is consistent with Lexus’s long-standing reputation for building robust and dependable vehicles. The RZ has had no recalls to date, further reinforcing its reliability. While the range may be a point of consideration for some buyers, the RZ excels in other areas, offering attractive styling, a luxurious and spacious interior, brisk acceleration (especially in AWD models), and a generous list of standard features.
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst TX Year To Buy Used: 2023 Lexus RZ450: Lowest range
Lexus TX: The New Standard in Three-Row Luxury Reliability
Reliability Score: 8/10
Front three quarter view of a silver Lexus TX 500h driving on a highway next to a body of water
The 2024 Lexus TX is a fresh addition to the Lexus SUV lineup, designed as a three-row SUV that replaces the previous RX-L. Sharing its platform with the Toyota Grand Highlander, the TX elevates the three-row SUV experience with Lexus’s signature luxury touches. It offers premium features like semi-aniline leather upholstery and seating for up to seven passengers, or optional second-row captain’s chairs for enhanced comfort. The TX is designed to provide a refined and luxurious journey for all occupants.
| Engine | 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 275 HP |
| Torque | 317 LB-FT |
Reliability Performance
Front three quarter view of a white 2024 Lexus TX driving on a paved road
The Lexus TX benefits from leveraging proven technology and Toyota’s expertise in turbo hybrid engines, contributing to its strong reliability. The TX350, powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, offers a balance of power and efficiency. While not overtly sporty, the TX350 prioritizes a smooth and comfortable ride, aligning with the preferences of luxury SUV buyers. Its reliability is further underpinned by Toyota’s renowned reputation for dependability and long-term durability. The TX has had a single recall related to airbag deployment, which is relatively minor for a brand-new model. The Lexus TX range includes hybrid variants, such as the TX 500h F Sport Performance Luxury, appealing to buyers seeking fuel efficiency in a mid-size luxury SUV. The TX provides ample third-row space, addressing a common need in this segment.
- Total Recalls: 1
- Worst UX Year To Buy Used: 2024 Lexus TX: Recalled for improper curtain airbag deployment.
Front three quarter view of a dark gray 2024 Lexus TX driving on a paved road
Lexus GX: Off-Road Prowess Meets Enduring Reliability
Reliability Score: 8.8/10
Front three quarter view of a green 2024 Lexus GX Overtrail parked on a dirt road
The Lexus GX occupies the third spot on our list, embodying Lexus’s mid-size off-road SUV offering. The latest GX generation rides on a new platform with updated powertrains and modern features, presenting a more rugged and contemporary design. Its boxy, Land Cruiser-inspired styling hints at its off-road capabilities and timeless appeal. Positioned between the flagship LX and the TX, the GX550 provides a versatile blend of luxury for daily driving and robust performance for off-road adventures.
| Engine | 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 349 HP |
| Torque | 479 LB-FT |
Reliability Performance
Front action view of a green 2024 Lexus GX Overtrail driving on a rocky surface
Despite a recent redesign, the Lexus GX maintains its long-standing reputation for exceptional reliability. With an average annual maintenance cost of $770, it remains an affordable choice within the mid-size luxury SUV category. The GX’s proven track record and off-road capability make it a trusted option for drivers seeking a reliable and capable SUV. The current generation GX has had no recalls. J.D. Power recognizes the Lexus GX as the most reliable 4×4 available, awarding it a quality and reliability score of 89/100. Updates to the GX, including the shift to a twin-turbo V-6 engine, have not compromised its dependability.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $770
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,625
- Total Recalls: 0 (current-gen GX)
- Worst GX Year To Buy Used: 2018 GX460: Fuel pump and airbag issues
Lexus LX: Uncompromising Luxury and Legendary Durability
Reliability Score: 9.3/10
Front three quarter view of a gray 2023 Lexus LX 600 driving on an off-road trail
The Lexus LX continues to reign as a top-tier full-size luxury SUV, celebrated for its opulent refinement and rugged off-road capabilities. Distinct from its Toyota Land Cruiser sibling, the LX600 elevates luxury with quilted leather upholstery, meticulously crafted leather accents, and an available 25-speaker Mark Levinson sound system. The LX600 embodies understated yet exceptional luxury, appealing to drivers who value both durability and sophistication in their SUV.
| Engine | 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 409 HP |
| Torque | 479 LB-FT |
Reliability Performance
Front quarter view of a gray 2024 Lexus NX F Sport parked on a paved surface
While perhaps not as feature-packed as some competitors, the LX600 distinguishes itself with unparalleled reliability and luxury, earning a reputation for longevity both on and off the beaten path. Its engine, derived from the Toyota Tundra, underwent extensive development and real-world testing before being implemented in the LX600, ensuring robustness. With an average annual maintenance cost of $832, the Lexus LX secures the second position on our list of most reliable Lexus SUVs. While the LX has had a few recalls, they are relatively infrequent considering its complexity and production volume. The LX is available in five trims, offering a range of seating configurations and luxury levels, from the five-seat base model to the ultra-luxurious four-seat Ultra Luxury variant.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $832
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $8,286
- Total Recalls: 6
- Worst LX Year To Buy Used: 2018 Lexus LX570: Fuel pump issues
Side action view of a gray 2024 Lexus RX driving on a paved road
Lexus RX: The Undisputed Champion of Lexus SUV Reliability
Reliability Score: 9.3/10
Front three quarter view of a red 2024 Lexus RX Hybrid parked off-road on grass
The 2024 Lexus RX epitomizes refined luxury, prioritizing comfort and sophistication above outright sportiness. While some rivals emphasize athletic driving dynamics, the RX delivers a serene and plush ride, making it exceptionally appealing to those seeking a comfortable and reliable luxury SUV, particularly in its hybrid configurations. Its spacious cabin is adorned with premium materials and offers generous room for passengers and cargo. While a third row is available in the new TX SUV, the RX remains true to its heritage, focusing on luxury and comfort, making it an ideal choice for buyers who prioritize reliability and class in their SUV.
| Engine | 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 275 HP |
| Torque | 317 LB-FT |
Reliability Performance
Front three quarter view of a white 2023 Lexus RX parked in a studio setting
The Lexus RX stands as the pinnacle of reliability within the Lexus SUV lineup, boasting a long-established track record and meticulous build quality. With an impressively low average annual maintenance cost of $550, the RX offers an affordable ownership experience while upholding Lexus’s high standards. Despite its exceptional reliability, the RX has experienced a few recalls throughout its history, with the 2016 RX350 being noted as a year with a higher number of recalls. However, Lexus’s commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in their prompt resolution of these issues. Overall, the RX continues to solidify its reputation as a benchmark for reliability in the luxury SUV segment, providing drivers with confidence and a refined driving experience. The RX offers both gasoline-powered and hybrid models, with the RX500 F Sport Performance topping the range with 367 horsepower, catering to diverse performance and efficiency preferences.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $550
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,398
- Total Recalls: 2 (current-gen model)
- Worst RX Year To Buy Used: 2016 Lexus RX350: Most recalls
Conclusion:
When seeking the best Lexus SUV, reliability should be a paramount consideration. As this ranking demonstrates, Lexus offers a range of SUVs that excel in dependability, each with its unique strengths and characteristics. From the compact UX to the flagship LX, Lexus SUVs are engineered to provide a luxurious and worry-free ownership experience. While the Lexus RX emerges as the ultimate leader in reliability, models like the GX and LX also offer exceptional dependability, particularly for those needing off-road capability or full-size dimensions. Ultimately, the “best” Lexus SUV for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences, but rest assured that choosing any model from this esteemed brand is a step towards driving a vehicle built to last.
