The 2025 Lexus NX hits this model year with only a few new additions to note. In the technology department, the NX gets rain-sensing wipers, a power liftgate, wireless charging, more USB-C ports, and intuitive parking assist with automatic braking.
Buyers can also choose Copper Crest as a new exterior color and Macadamia as a new interior color.
Lexus
The NX received a facelift all the way back in 2022, and Lexus seems to think that little else is needed to improve one of its best-selling vehicles. It’s a strong competitor in this class; there’s no arguing that, but there is still room for improvement.
Reason to love it #1: It’s a pretty little thing
I know looks are subjective, and I try to avoid waxing poetic about some vehicles, but the Lexus NX is attractive to me. At the very least, it is more balanced than the RX and its massive grill. Also, it is far more optically pleasing to behold than the previous NX.
Lexus
Reason to love it #2: Lots of powertrain and trim choices
There are three engine configurations and trim levels to choose from on the Lexus NX. The base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that makes 203 horsepower. The NX350 makes 275 hp thanks to a turbocharged 2.4-liter in its ICE form or 240 hp in its 350h form, which pairs two electric motors to the 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Finally, there’s the most powerful 450h+ Plug-in Hybrid, which gets a combined 304 hp.
With the exception of the base model NX250 and 250 Premium, all other Lexus NX models come standard with all-wheel drive (AWD). The two NX250 models can still get AWD, but it’ll cost you an additional $1,600.
For easier comparison, here are the trims with their respective base prices:
- Lexus NX – $42,140
- NX 250 Premium – $44,065
- NX 350 AWD – $45,900
- NX Premium AWD – $47,825
- NX 350 Luxury AWD – $51,965
- NX F Sport Handling – $50,510
- NX 350h AWD – $46,600
- NX 350h Premium AWD – $48,525
- NX 350h Luxury AWD – $52,665
- NX 450h + AWD – $62,415
- NX 450h + F Sport Handling AWD – $63,505
Reason to love it #3: Outstanding driving compromise
Even the base model NX250 gets proper suspension tuning. Sure, the F Sport Handling packages are a bit firmer and have better adhesion, but all of the Lexus NX models I tested handled great, had an excellent highway ride, and were a snap to park.
Lexus
Reason to love it #4: Snazzy digs
The interior of the 2025 Lexus NX is a lovely place to spend time. While it looks similar to other Lexus products, the designers did not skimp on the internal quality. A more than adequate 9.8-inch touchscreen display comes standard, while a larger 14-inch screen is available as part of the Lexus Interface multimedia system.
The seats are well-bolstered and comfortable for drivers of different builds. The backseat and cargo space are good, too, with 22.7 cu-ft of cargo space behind the back seat and up to 46.9 cu-ft with the rear seats folded.
Lexus
Reason to think twice #1: Door handles from the depths of Hades
Lexus reinvented the simple, reliable door handle to mitigate harm to passing bicyclists. Boo says I. By doing this, they eliminated a conventional pull handle on the exterior and added an overcomplicated door button or double pull interior handle.
Did I mention it can get a bit stuck if not closed properly? It’s silly, unnecessary, and counterintuitive for many. I say just give us a visual and audio warning about things passing by the exit door, and we can do the rest.
Lexus
Reason to think twice #2: Elephant in the room: it’s based on a Toyota RAV4
Yup, in many ways, the Lexus NX250 is a Toyota, with similar powertrains and the same footprint. Sure, they have completely different interiors, characters, and overall looks, but they do share a lot. That’s why I often say, “The Lexus NX is a Toyota RAV4 in a tuxedo.”
Look, that’s not a slight against the NX, but it is the truth. That said, I still think there’s enough of a difference to make a case for the price differences.
Lexus
Final thoughts
Other than the diminutive Lexus UX, the NX represents the popular entry-level luxury crossover many dream about. It’s a nice car to live with and one that’s more than competitive with most automakers. Sure, it has its quirks, and it’s very similar to the Toyota RAV4, but it still maintains a certain level of luxury that others don’t quite reach.
About the author
Nathan Adlen
Contributing Writer, Autoblog