Lexus NX: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide

Last updated August 4, 2026

Lexus NX

The Lexus NX is a compact luxury SUV known for quiet comfort, an upscale cabin, strong safety technology, and a city-friendly size. Recent models include gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid versions.

Launched for 2015, the NX brought Lexus luxury to a smaller, younger-feeling SUV than the RX. Sharp styling, a technology-focused cabin, and quiet road manners have remained central to its character. Over time, the lineup has expanded its electrified choices while continuing to favor comfort, efficiency, and Lexus reliability over all-out sportiness.

Strengths

  • It delivers quiet, comfort-oriented road manners instead of chasing an aggressively sporty feel.
  • Its compact footprint makes it easier to manage around town while still providing seating for five.
  • Recent lineups cover gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid driving, giving used-car shoppers several approaches to efficiency.
  • The 2026 hybrid is rated at 42 mpg in the city, making stop-and-go driving a clear strength.
  • Safety technology has been a consistent priority, with a standard safety suite across the lineup since 2018.
  • Lexus reliability is a central part of the NX’s long-running appeal.

Who it's for

The NX best fits shoppers who want an upscale daily driver that is easy to manage in town and comfortable on longer trips. It especially suits buyers interested in hybrid or plug-in hybrid driving who do not need the space of a larger luxury SUV.

Lexus NX lineup

The main versions are defined first by powertrain: the NX 350 uses gas power, the NX 350h is the efficiency-focused hybrid, and the NX 450h+ is the plug-in hybrid. In 2026, the hybrid is rated at 42 mpg in the city, while the plug-in hybrid has a 37-mile electric-range rating. Premium and Luxury grades move toward the more upscale side of the lineup, while F SPORT Handling is the pick for sportier styling and handling. Even in F SPORT form, the NX remains more comfort-focused than aggressively sporty.

Lexus NX generations

From 2015 to 2026, the NX spans two generations. The current 2nd Generation arrived for 2022, following the 1st Generation — AZ10 (2015–2021).

2nd Generation (2022–Present)

The second-generation NX moved to a new platform with wider-looking styling, a touchscreen-based cabin, and an updated safety suite. Its four-powertrain lineup added the NX 250, turbocharged NX 350, NX 350h hybrid, and NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid.

44 In Stock
2nd Generation (2022–Present) Lexus NX
2026Trim changes

The NX 450h+ Premium trim debuts, and the F SPORT Handling trim expands to the hybrid lineup. The NX 350h also adds front-wheel drive, while plug-in hybrids get dual-voltage charging cables.

2025Trim changes

Two front USB-C ports, parking assist with automatic braking, rain-sensing wipers, and a power rear door become standard across the lineup.

2024Trim changes

Minor cabin trim details change for certain interior combinations; the powertrains and main grade structure carry over.

2023

The four powertrains, touchscreen system, and safety suite carry over from the redesigned 2022 model.

2022New generation

A full redesign brings a new platform, touchscreen-based cabin, updated safety suite, wider-looking body, and four powertrains, including the first NX plug-in hybrid.

1st Generation — AZ10 (2015–2021)

The first NX introduced Lexus to the compact luxury crossover class with sharp styling, a turbocharged gas engine, and a hybrid model. A substantial 2018 update refreshed the styling, comfort, safety equipment, and multimedia system.

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1st Generation — AZ10 (2015–2021) Lexus NX
2021Trim changes

The NX 300h F SPORT Black Line special edition debuts. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert also become standard across the lineup.

2020Trim changes

An updated safety suite becomes standard, adding lane-centering support and road-sign recognition. Later-build models also gain Android Auto.

2019

A limited Black Line special edition debuts, and Apple CarPlay is added to the standard multimedia system.

2018Mid-cycle update

Refreshed front and rear styling joins a retuned suspension, more sound insulation, standard safety features, and an upgraded multimedia system. The NX 200t is renamed NX 300.

2017

The NX 300h becomes AWD-only, while the styling and core hardware otherwise carry over.

2016Trim changes

The engines, platform, cabin design, and trim structure carry over from the launch year.

2015New generation

The all-new NX launches as Lexus' first compact luxury crossover, with NX 200t turbo and NX 300h hybrid versions.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Lexus NX a small SUV or a midsize SUV?

The Lexus NX is a compact luxury SUV. It has four doors and seating for five, giving it a more city-friendly footprint than a larger luxury SUV while still providing a raised seating position and useful cargo space.

Does the Lexus NX come as a hybrid?

Yes. The NX has offered a regular hybrid since its first generation, originally called the NX 300h and later the NX 350h. Since the 2022 redesign, the lineup has also included the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid.

What is the difference between the NX hybrid and plug-in hybrid?

The NX 350h is a regular hybrid that recharges itself as you drive, so it never needs plugging in. The NX 450h+ has a larger battery that is charged from an outlet and provides an EPA-estimated 37 miles of electric driving before operating as a hybrid.

What is the Lexus NX known for?

The NX is known for quiet road manners, a comfortable upscale cabin, strong safety technology, and efficient hybrid choices. Its personality leans more toward relaxed everyday driving and Lexus reliability than sharp, sports-car-like handling.

Who is the Lexus NX a good fit for?

The NX suits singles, couples, and small families who want a five-seat luxury SUV that is easy to manage around town. It also fits commuters interested in hybrid efficiency or short electric trips without moving to a larger SUV.

How many generations of the Lexus NX are there?

There are two generations. The first ran from 2015 through 2021. The second arrived for 2022 with a redesigned body and cabin, a touchscreen-based interface, an updated safety suite, and a wider selection of gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains.

Lexus NX Reviews

What owners are saying about the Lexus NX.

4.2
Lexus NX
(2,923 reviews)
5 stars (1,268)
4 stars (1,148)
3 stars (406)
2 stars (85)
1 star (16)

About owner reviews

Carvana owner reviews are provided in partnership with Strategic Vision, one of the largest automotive consumer research providers in the U.S. Star ratings are from ranking surveys completed by owners one to six months post-purchase. Comments from owners are optional, but included here when available.

“I absolutely love my vehicle. Very sleek and luxurious with a smooth and comfortable ride. I love the attention to detail in the interior.”

MBMichael B.
2017 Lexus NX NX200t AWD

“Easy to maneuver. Fuel economy is so-so but just acceptable. Excellent seating comfort. Easy to access the cargo area. The exterior cameras should be improved and more camera views added. This is principally an in-town car that is OK on the highway just not very perky.”

CCharles
2020 Lexus NX NX300H AWD

“While I love my new Lexus, it doesn't quite meet my expectation as far as reputation. It does not drive as 'smoothly and seamlessly' as I would have hoped”

RBRob B.
2015 Lexus NX NX200t AWD
No rating

“Make sure everything you need can fit in the vehicle, as space is at a premium. Other than that, solid recommend.”

ILIsaac L.
2021 Lexus NX NX300H AWD
No rating

“Prior to owning my Lexus I leased a Lincoln MKZ. I had low expectations for that car and was pleasantly surprised. My expectations for my Lexus were high. While I pleased with it I also expected it to be a good car”

DRDon R.
2015 Lexus NX NX200t FWD

“I purchased a 2021 Lexus NX 300 FSport with 9210 miles. This vehicle rides so comfortably. It has a front grill that commands attention. The red and black leather interior stands out and I look gorgeous behind the wheel. This vehicle is luxury and sport combined. I got several good reviews from previous Lexus owners. I would certainly consider Lexus on my next purchase also.”

DBDerrick B.
2021 Lexus NX NX300 FWD