Whether you want a fuel-efficient SUV for commuting or a comfortable vehicle for family road trips, ride in luxury when you choose a Lexus SUV. Two of the most popular Lexus SUVs, the compact NX and the midsize RX, offer a wide range of premium features to enhance your driving experience. If you’re considering one of these SUVs, you may want to know which one fits your preferences and lifestyle the best. Review this guide to learn about the key differences between the Lexus RX and NX to help you choose the right luxury SUV for you.
Performance
2023 Lexus RX
Both the Lexus NX and Lexus RX offer powerful performance in a luxury SUV. Recent upgrades to new NX models include an enhanced powertrain for superior performance, while the RX delivers slightly more horsepower to provide a thrilling driving experience. Available drive modes on both SUVs offer steering and suspension enhancements for precise handling on the road. Both the Lexus NX and RX come standard with front-wheel drive, though all-wheel drive is an option for both SUVs, providing increased traction on any road surface. In addition, both SUVs are available as hybrid models with impressive driving ranges and increased efficiency.
Size
One of the biggest differences between the Lexus NX and RX is their size. The Lexus NX, a compact crossover, can seat five people comfortably with ample cargo volume. In comparison, the Lexus RX, a midsize SUV, is taller, wider, and longer than the NX, which creates more interior and cargo space. While most RX models seat five passengers, some offer an optional third row of seats, allowing seven passengers to ride comfortably in the SUV. In these models, you can fold down the second-and third-row seats for maximum cargo space, whether you’re hauling gear, equipment, or luggage.
Interior
When you want premium interior comforts, you can’t go wrong with either the Lexus NX or RX. Both SUVs offer top-of-the-line interior features, from premium upholstery to refined materials. Some commonly shared interior features include dual-zone automatic climate control, a power tilt-and-telescopic steering column, and power-adjustable front seats. In new models, the RX offers various other enhanced features, such as a standard memory system for the power driver’s seat, rearview mirrors, and steering wheel. These options may be available on some NX models.
Technology
Both the Lexus NX and RX come equipped with state-of-the-art technology to keep you connected, no matter where the road takes you. The two SUVs each offer a sizable multimedia touch-screen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration so you can access your maps, stream music, or listen to podcasts. A premium sound system comes standard in both the Lexus NX and RX, or upgrade the audio system with additional packages available for both SUVs.
New models of both the NX and RX allow you to use the Lexus app on your phone to start the vehicle remotely, schedule service appointments, and more. Bluetooth and USB smartphone connectivity are standard features in new Lexus NX and RX models, and wireless charging is available. If you purchase a brand-new Lexus RX, it comes with three years of the Lexus Enform Remote service, which allows you to check the engine, monitor fuel levels, and more using your smartphone, smartwatch, and other enabled devices.
Safety
2022 Lexus NX 450H
When you drive a Lexus NX or RX, you can feel confident behind the wheel. Both SUVs come standard with the Lexus Safety System+, which provides a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features. Some of the common safety features you’ll find in both the Lexus NX and RX include:
- Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection: This safety feature detects oncoming vehicles or pedestrians to help avoid a collision, automatically applying the brakes in some situations.
- Lane departure alert with steering assist: Using a high-resolution camera, this feature monitors lane markers and provides an alert when the vehicle drifts into another lane. In some cases, it takes temporary measures to keep the vehicle on the right path.
- Backup camera: Both the Lexus NX and RX come equipped with a standard backup camera, which provides a comprehensive view of the area behind the vehicle when you’re reversing or backing into a parking spot.
- Road sign assist: This feature uses a built-in camera to display speed limits and other useful road sign information in the vehicle’s display panel.
- Intelligent high beams: This safety feature provides enhanced illumination when you’re driving in the evening. It automatically defaults to high-beam mode and adjusts to low-beam mode when it senses another vehicle approaching.
Price
When purchasing a new vehicle, price is an important factor for many people. Both the Lexus NX and RX offer the lowest prices on the base models, with upper trims increasing in price as the vehicles add upgraded premium features. In 2022, the base NX 250 trim has a starting MSRP of $39,025, while the base RX 350 with front-wheel drive starts at $46,645 MSRP. This RX model also comes in an all-wheel-drive version, which starts at $48,045 MSRP.
Often, you can find used and certified pre-owned Lexus NX and RX models for comparable prices, depending on the model year, trim, and additional features. At Longo Lexus, we offer a wide selection of L/Certified by Lexus vehicles, which have undergone a rigorous 161-point inspection to ensure quality and performance. An unlimited-mileage vehicle warranty offers peace of mind, while complimentary maintenance can help keep your vehicle in mint condition for years to come. For more information, contact our sales staff or stop by our dealership in El Monte, California.
Test Drive a Lexus RX or NX in El Monte, California
Now you know more about the similarities and differences between the Lexus NX and the Lexus RX. Are you ready to take one of these luxury SUVs for a test drive? At Longo Lexus, we’re proud to be the premier destination for new and certified pre-owned Lexus models in the San Gabriel Valley. Browse our online inventory or visit our dealership in El Monte, California, to see our current selection. Our friendly sales staff can answer your questions and provide more details to help you find the right Lexus SUV for you. For more information, contact us today.
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