2025 Lexus NX Review

2025 Lexus NX – Overview

The 2025 Lexus NX presents a stylish look, comfortable and plush seating, and a smooth, composed driving experience. While there’s little to fault about this subcompact luxury SUV, it may not be the ultimate choice in its class. The NX lineup includes four powertrain options: two conventional gasoline engines (the NX250 and NX350), a hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid variant. We’ll cover the hybrid models separately. The NX350’s available turbocharged engine offers respectable pep, but don’t expect a thrilling, sporty drive—even in the F Sport trim—as performance isn’t this model’s main focus. Instead, Lexus designed its second-smallest crossover as a dependable and comfortable companion for daily errands, commuting, or relaxed road trips with friends and family. For those craving more engaging driving dynamics, competitors like the Audi Q3, BMW X1, or Mercedes-Benz GLA might better satisfy that desire.

When Is The 2025 Lexus NX Coming Out?

Lexus has confirmed that the 2025 NX will arrive at dealerships in late 2024, with deliveries expected to begin in early 2025. The exact release date may vary by region, so interested buyers should check with their local dealers for availability.

Pre-orders are expected to open in the fall of 2024, giving early adopters the chance to secure their preferred trim and configuration before inventory becomes widely available.

What’s New for 2025 Lexus NX?

Following its major redesign in 2022, the 2025 Lexus NX receives only subtle updates. A standout addition is the new Copper Crest exterior color, which glows with a unique rose gold shimmer. Inside, the Macadamia shade debuts exclusively in the Luxury trim, adding a fresh touch to the cabin. Buyers can now opt for a wireless charger on any trim level, while two extra USB-C ports have been added as standard features within the front console. Other standard upgrades include rain-sensing windshield wipers, a power liftgate, and Lexus’s advanced parking assist system with automatic braking, which is now standard on all models.

Pricing and Which Trim to Choose

The 2025 Lexus NX is priced starting at $42,140, with the top-tier models reaching up to $51,965, depending on trim level and optional features.

While the base NX model comes in just under $42,000, it might feel a bit bare-bones for those seeking true luxury. For a better balance of power and features, the mid-level NX350 is a solid pick, equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 275 horsepower. Our recommendation is the NX350 Luxury trim, which upgrades the experience with premium touches such as a larger 14-inch infotainment screen, quilted leather seats, cloud-connected navigation, enhanced ambient interior lighting, 20-inch wheels, four-way adjustable lumbar support for the driver, and adaptive headlamps. If you’re after a sportier look and added performance, the NX350 F Sport trim offers similar pricing with an edgier design. Adding one of three premium exterior paint options costs an additional $500, while the special Ultrasonic Blue Mica and Copper Crest finishes carry a $595 premium.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

For 2025, the Lexus NX offers two nonhybrid powertrain choices. The base NX250 features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower, while the NX350 steps it up with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder delivering 275 horsepower. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The NX250 is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, whereas the NX350 comes standard with all-wheel drive.

Although the NX doesn’t impress as a sporty handler, its ride quality is comfortable and composed. With some spirited driving, we found it capable of delivering a few enjoyable moments on winding back roads. The F Sport trim enhances the experience with an adaptive suspension that firms up the ride and improves handling finesse, but even then, the NX falls short of the BMW X1’s agility when navigating twisty roads.

0–60-MPH Times

During our testing of the mid-level NX350, the SUV accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 6.6 seconds. While we haven’t tested the base NX250 ourselves, we expect its performance to be noticeably slower than the turbocharged NX350.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The EPA rates the base NX250 with impressive fuel efficiency, achieving up to 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged NX350, meanwhile, earns slightly lower ratings, with a top score of 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. In our real-world testing on a 75-mph highway route, an all-wheel-drive NX350 managed to deliver 28 mpg. For more detailed fuel economy information on the NX, you can visit the EPA’s official website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The latest generation of the 2025 Lexus NX brings a significant upgrade to the cabin, featuring a sleek, modern design paired with high-quality materials. It boasts one of the roomiest interiors in the luxury subcompact crossover class, offering generous rear-seat passenger space and more cargo capacity with the rear seats folded down than many competitors. Optional amenities include a panoramic sunroof, heated rear seats, a customizable ambient lighting system with 64 color options, and elegant black open-pore wood trim, all enhancing the overall comfort and sophistication.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Every 2025 Lexus NX comes with a touchscreen infotainment system, featuring a 9.8-inch display on base models and an expansive 14-inch screen on higher trims. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard and connect wirelessly, enhancing convenience. Optional tech upgrades include a wireless smartphone charging pad and a head-up display. The standard audio setup includes a 10-speaker stereo system, which also offers a free trial of Amazon Music. For audiophiles, an upgraded 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system is available with the Premium or Luxury packages, delivering a rich, immersive listening experience.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2025 Lexus NX comes well-equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assistance technologies. Every model includes automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning paired with lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. These features work together to enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue. For detailed crash test ratings, you can check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Key Safety Highlights:

• Automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection (standard)

• Lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist (standard)

• Adaptive cruise control (standard)

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Lexus offers one of the most extensive protection plans in the automotive market. However, unlike competitors such as the Volvo XC40 and BMW X1—which include three years of free scheduled maintenance—Lexus limits this benefit to just one year.

• Limited warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles

• Powertrain warranty extends to six years or 70,000 miles

• Complimentary maintenance is available for one year or 10,000 miles

2025 Lexus NX Specifications

Final Verdict

The 2025 Lexus NX remains one of the most well-rounded luxury compact SUVs available today. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, comfort, tech, or safety, the NX has a configuration to suit. Its wide range of powertrains—from efficient hybrid to punchy turbo to all-electric plug-in—sets it apart from most rivals. While some enthusiasts may crave sharper driving dynamics, Lexus fans will appreciate the NX’s serene ride and exceptional quality.

2025 Lexus NX Videos