Lexus NX A Blend of Luxury and Innovation
The Lexus NX, a compact luxury crossover SUV, has carved a niche in the competitive luxury SUV market since its debut in 2014. Positioned between the subcompact UX and the mid-size RX in Lexus’ lineup, the NX—standing for “Nimble Crossover”—combines sophisticated design, advanced technology, and electrified performance to appeal to buyers seeking comfort, reliability, and efficiency. With the 2025 model year bringing subtle yet meaningful updates, the Lexus NX continues to evolve, offering a refined driving experience that balances practicality with premium appeal.
Design and Styling
The Lexus NX embodies the brand’s signature design philosophy, characterized by its bold spindle grille, sleek lines, and athletic proportions. The second-generation NX, introduced in 2022, builds on this with a refined exterior that incorporates overlapping L-shaped daytime running lamps and full-width blade taillamps for a modern, dynamic look. For 2025, Lexus introduces a striking new exterior color, Copper Crest, which shimmers in a rose gold hue, alongside a new Macadamia interior shade for Luxury trims, adding a touch of warmth to the cabin.
The NX’s exterior dimensions—4,660 mm long, 1,865 mm wide, and 1,670 mm high, with a 2,690 mm wheelbase—strike a balance between maneuverability and presence. The 2025 model also features minor updates like rain-sensing windshield wipers and a power liftgate as standard, enhancing convenience. The Overtrail grade, available in select markets, adds rugged flair with 18-inch matte black wheels, off-road tires, and a blacked-out grille, appealing to adventure-seekers.
Inside, the NX’s “Tazuna” cockpit design focuses on driver-centric ergonomics, wrapping controls around the driver for intuitive access. The cabin boasts high-quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces, leather in cream, black, red, or tan, and optional Thematic Ambient Illumination with 14 nature-inspired themes. A 9.8-inch touchscreen is standard, with higher trims offering a 14-inch HD display, both supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system delivers an immersive sound experience, while features like the Lexus Climate Concierge and S-Flow climate control ensure occupant comfort by adjusting ventilation based on seat occupancy.
Powertrains and Performance
The 2025 Lexus NX offers four powertrain options, catering to diverse preferences:
- NX 250: A 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 hp, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It achieves 28 mpg combined, suitable for buyers prioritizing affordability.
- NX 350: A turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 275 hp, offering peppy performance with a 0-60 mph time of around 6.8 seconds. Fuel economy is estimated at 24-28 mpg combined.
- NX 350h: A self-charging hybrid with a 2.5-liter engine and electric motors, producing 240 hp combined. It boasts an impressive 39 mpg combined and a 0-100 km/h time of 7.4 seconds, blending efficiency with smooth acceleration.
- NX 450h+: A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) with a 2.5-liter engine, electric motors, and an 18.1 kWh lithium-ion battery, delivering 304 hp and up to 37 miles of electric-only range. It achieves 36 mpg combined when the battery is depleted and can reach 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds.
The NX 350h and 450h+ leverage Lexus’ decades-long expertise in hybrid technology, offering seamless transitions between electric and gas power. The NX 350h’s regenerative braking recharges the battery during deceleration, eliminating the need for external charging, while the NX 450h+’s EV mode supports zero-emission driving for short commutes. The plug-in hybrid’s four-mode selector (EV, Auto EV/Hybrid, Hybrid, and Battery Charging) enhances versatility, with a 6.6 kW onboard charger enabling a full charge in about 2.5 hours.
While the NX isn’t designed for sporty thrills like rivals such as the BMW X1 or Audi Q3, its suspension—tuned for comfort—and low center of gravity provide a composed, stable ride. The F Sport and Overtrail trims add Adaptive Variable Suspension for sharper handling, though the NX excels most in delivering a serene, luxurious driving experience.
Technology and Safety
The 2025 Lexus NX is packed with advanced technology, centered around the Lexus Interface system. This multimedia platform includes a responsive touchscreen, cloud-based navigation, and an Intelligent Assistant for voice commands. Remote Connect allows drivers to control features like air conditioning and door locks via smartphone, while a 10-year trial of Safety Connect and Service Connect provides real-time vehicle diagnostics and emergency assistance.
The Lexus Safety System+ considérée, standard across all trims, includes a Pre-Collision System with pedestrian and motorcycle detection, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and Safe Exit Assist to prevent door openings into oncoming traffic. New for 2025, intuitive parking assist with automatic braking is standard, complemented by optional remote parking via smartphone. The NX’s safety features have earned strong ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, reinforcing its reliability credentials.
Trims and Pricing
The 2025 Lexus NX starts at $42,115 for the NX 250, with the top-tier NX 450h+ Luxury priced around $59,430. Available trims in the U.S. include NX 250, NX 250 Premium, NX 350, NX 350 Premium, NX 350 Luxury, NX 350 F Sport Handling, NX 350h, NX 350h Premium, NX 350h Luxury, NX 450h+ Premium, and NX 450h+ Luxury. In other markets, such as Europe and Australia, trims like Business, Executive, F Sport, and Overtrail offer additional customization. The NX’s pricing is competitive, though base models may feel spartan for luxury buyers, making mid-range trims like the NX 350 or 350h popular choices.
Ownership Experience
Lexus’ reputation for reliability and exceptional dealer service shines through with the NX. Owners praise its low maintenance, comfortable ride, and high resale value, with Kelley Blue Book noting a 4.8/5 reliability rating from owners. The NX’s hybrid models, in particular, are lauded for fuel efficiency, with the NX 450h+ offering significant savings for company car drivers due to its low tax bracket. However, some critiques include road noise on base models and a less commanding driving position compared to rivals like the Volvo XC60.
Conclusion
The 2025 Lexus NX is a compelling choice for buyers seeking a compact luxury SUV that prioritizes comfort, efficiency, and reliability over outright performance. With its range of powertrains, advanced safety features, and luxurious cabin, it caters to a wide audience, from urban commuters to families. While it may not match the dynamic prowess of European rivals, its blend of cutting-edge hybrid technology, refined design, and Lexus’ hallmark dependability makes it a standout in its class. Whether cruising city streets or embarking on a leisurely road trip, the NX delivers a polished, stress-free experience that lives up to Lexus’ “Experience Amazing” promise.