Choosing the right luxury SUV can be exciting, and when you’re considering Lexus, two models often come to mind: the Lexus NX and the Lexus RX. Both offer renowned Lexus luxury, reliability, and advanced features, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. At cardiagnosticnearme.com, we understand the importance of making an informed decision when it comes to your vehicle. This comparison dives deep into the Lexus Nx Versus Rx, highlighting their key differences in performance, configurations, and features to help you determine which SUV best suits your lifestyle.
Engine and Performance Comparison
The Lexus NX and RX both boast impressive engine lineups, offering a range of choices from efficient gasoline engines to powerful hybrids and plug-in hybrids. Let’s explore the engine options and performance specifications for each model.
Lexus NX Engine Options & Performance
The 2025 Lexus NX offers a variety of powertrains to match different driving styles. The base NX 250 comes with a capable 2.5L 4-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, providing a balance of efficiency and performance for daily driving. For more power, the NX 350 upgrades to a turbocharged 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, delivering 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque.
For those prioritizing fuel efficiency and eco-consciousness, the NX hybrid options are compelling. The NX 350h pairs a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor, while the NX 450h+ is a plug-in hybrid, offering even greater electric driving range and enhanced fuel economy. The NX 450h+ models deliver the most potent performance in the NX range.
2025 Lexus NX Performance Specs:
- Max Horsepower: 304 hp (NX 450h+)
- Max Torque: 317 lb-ft of torque (NX 350 & NX 450h+)
- Max Towing Capacity: 2,000 lbs
Lexus RX Engine Options & Performance
The Lexus RX, a larger SUV, also presents a diverse engine selection. The base RX 350 is powered by a 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine generating 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, matching the NX 350 in torque but tuned for the larger RX’s needs. Like the NX, the RX also offers hybrid options. The RX 350h combines a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine with a hybrid system for enhanced fuel economy. For maximum power in the RX lineup, the RX 500h F SPORT Performance AWD delivers 366 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, providing exhilarating acceleration. The RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid is also available for those seeking electric driving capabilities in a larger SUV.
2024 Lexus RX Performance Specs:
- Max Horsepower: 366 hp (RX 500h)
- Max Torque: 406 lb-ft of torque (RX 500h)
- Max Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs
Trim Levels and Configurations
Both the Lexus NX and RX offer a variety of trims and configurations to personalize your SUV. The Lexus RX provides a broader range with 15 configurations, while the NX offers 7, simplifying the selection process for some buyers.
Lexus NX Trims
The NX trim lineup includes:
- NX 250 & NX 250 AWD
- NX 350 AWD & NX 350 F SPORT Handling AWD
- NX 350h AWD (Hybrid)
- NX 450h+ AWD & NX 450h+ F SPORT Handling AWD (Plug-in Hybrid)
Lexus RX Trims
The RX trim lineup is more extensive, featuring:
- RX 350 FWD & RX 350 AWD
- RX 350h AWD (Hybrid)
- RX 350 Premium FWD & Premium AWD
- RX 350h Premium AWD (Hybrid Premium)
- RX 350 Premium+ FWD & Premium+ AWD
- RX 350h Premium+ AWD (Hybrid Premium+)
- RX 350 Luxury FWD & Luxury AWD
- RX 350h Luxury AWD (Hybrid Luxury)
- RX 450h+ Luxury AWD (Plug-in Hybrid Luxury)
- RX 350 F SPORT Handling AWD
- RX 500h F SPORT Performance AWD (Performance Hybrid)
Interior and Features
Inside, both the NX and RX exemplify Lexus’ commitment to luxury and technology. Both SUVs offer features like SmartAccess with push-button start, available Thematic Ambient Illumination, and refined cabins with NuLuxe® interior trim. Both models come standard with 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seats, with the RX offering an upgrade to 10-way adjustability.
For climate control, the NX features dual-zone automatic climate control, while the RX offers multi-zone climate control for enhanced passenger comfort. Heated front seats are standard in both models. Technology is at the forefront with an available 14-inch touchscreen featuring the Lexus Interface on both the NX and RX. Crucially, both SUVs prioritize safety with standard Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, a comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies.
Conclusion: NX or RX – Which Lexus SUV is Right for You?
Deciding between the Lexus NX and RX comes down to your specific needs and preferences. The Lexus NX, being the smaller of the two, offers a more agile driving experience and is easier to maneuver in urban environments. It’s a great choice for individuals or small families who prioritize fuel efficiency and a sporty feel in a luxury compact SUV.
The Lexus RX, on the other hand, provides a more spacious interior, greater cargo capacity, and a more substantial presence on the road. It’s ideal for families or those who need extra passenger and cargo space, or simply prefer a larger, more traditional luxury SUV.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to experience both SUVs firsthand. Visit DARCARS Lexus of Silver Spring to explore our extensive inventory of 2024 Lexus RX models and the 2025 Lexus NX. Our knowledgeable team can help you compare trims, features, and performance to ensure you drive away in the Lexus SUV that perfectly fits your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the NX and RX in size?
While both the Lexus NX and RX offer generous cargo space, with the NX surprisingly offering slightly more cargo volume (46.9 cubic feet vs. RX’s 46.2 cubic feet), the Lexus RX is physically larger overall. The RX measures 192.5 inches in length, while the NX is more compact at 183.5 inches long. This difference in size translates to more passenger room and a larger overall footprint for the RX.
Is the Lexus NX or RX faster?
Both Lexus SUVs offer impressive acceleration, but the RX generally edges out the NX in terms of outright speed, particularly in the higher performance trims. The quickest RX models, like the RX 500h F SPORT Performance, can achieve 0-60 mph in as little as 5.9 seconds. While the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid is the fastest NX, achieving 0-60 mph in around 6.0 seconds, most other NX trims are slightly slower than comparable RX models. For daily driving, both offer more than adequate power and responsive acceleration.
What are the hybrid options for the Lexus NX and RX?
Both the Lexus NX and Lexus RX offer excellent hybrid models. The NX features the NX 350h hybrid and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid. Similarly, the RX offers the RX 350h hybrid and the RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid, along with the high-performance RX 500h F SPORT Performance hybrid. This broad selection of hybrid options in both model lines allows buyers to prioritize fuel efficiency and performance according to their needs.