The Lexus RX was the first SUV ever introduced by the brand back in the 1990s. Since then, Lexus has added to its SUV lineup and the model that most closely resembles the RX is the NX. Both are luxury SUVs that provide the high level of comfort and performance that Lexus is known for. The primary differences revolve around size and price, with the RX one notch above the NX in both categories. Here's a comparison of these two outstanding luxury SUVs that are both available at Lexus Santa Monica in Santa Monica CA.
Lexus NX vs. RX Comparison
A comparison of powertrains
The RX and the NX both offer multiple powertrain options including standard gas powered engines, gas-electric hybrids and plug-in hybrids. Many of those powertrains are shared by both models. The smaller NX leads off with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine capable of 203 horsepower. Both the RX350 and the NX350 offer a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Both SUVs come with an eight-speed automatic transmission and in the NX-350, all-wheel drive is standard. Meanwhile, RX350 buyers can choose either front- or all-wheel drive.
In addition, both SUVs offer several hybrid powertrains. The RX350h and NX350h hybrids are built with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motors along with standard all-wheel drive. The plug-in hybrid versions of both models are all-wheel drive and the RX500h is a pure hybrid, not a plug-in.
A comparison of performance
The base level engine in the NX250 delivers 203 horsepower and an EPA-estimated 28 MPG combined fuel economy. The NX-350 and the all-wheel drive RX with the 2.4-liter turbo provides 24 MPG. The pure hybrids do much better in terms of fuel efficiency with 39 MPG for the NX350h and 36 MPG for the larger RX350h. In terms of pulling power, all NX models can tow 2.000 pounds while every version of the RX can tow up to 3,494 pounds.
A comparison of pricing and trim levels
The RX and the NX both offer eleven different trims to choose from. Pricing for the NX starts at around $41,700 and tops out at $63,400. The RX ranges in price from around $50,000 up to around $70,600.
A comparison of sizes
The Lexus NX is a compact crossover while the Lexus RX is a mid-size SUV. Both have seating for five people and the Lexus NX gives you 71.6 cubic feet of interior space while the Lexus RX has 121.3 cubic feet. In general, the standard Lexus RX provides more legroom, shoulder room and headroom than its NX cousin. The NX rolls with standard 17-inch wheels and available 18-inch wheels. Meanwhile, the RX starts with standard 18-inch wheels and offers upgraded 20-inch wheels.
A comparison of technology features
Both the Lexus RX and NX come with an array of entertainment features like the Lexus Enform App Suite, HD radio, subscription-free traffic and weather updates and Siri Eyes-Free technology. The Lexus Enform App lets you access your favorite mobile applications through the center console display screen and you can control the system easily with standard voice commands. Both SUVs come equipped with standard GPS Link turn-by-turn directions. Both come with Apple CarPlay® and Amazon Alexa compatibility.
You're invited to do your own comparison at our dealership
You can start by browsing our new Lexus inventory to see everything we currently have available. Another option is to focus on our new Lexus SUVs to see our selection of RX and NX models. If you're on a more limited budget, take a look at our used inventory. We look forward to sharing a test drive with you soon at Lexus Santa Monica in Santa Monica CA.
