The Lexus NX crossover debuted on the Ukrainian market a few years ago, but it continues to expand and diversify its range of versions. For example, this is my first experience with the Lexus NX in its hybrid version, the NX 350h, in the top-tier Luxury trim. What can it offer to the buyer? And what does the Lexus NX, in general, have to offer? Let’s find out in this detailed review.
Design: A Ground-Based Spaceship
Let me be honest right away—I love the design of the Lexus NX. All those sharp lines, the intricate curved door surfaces, the prominent front bumper with its standout grille, the bold rear bumper, and the embossed tailgate are simply stunning. Add to that the two-tone alloy wheels with slender spokes, the sharply contoured rear windows, and the intricate side mirrors that combine a dark base, chrome elements, and a body-colored casing. By the way, this muted silver body color is an additional "plus" for the car. You get the idea—I really like this design!
And this isn’t the first time. A long time ago, near the end of the first-generation Lexus NX’s production cycle, I had the chance to test drive one. It wasn’t a new model by any means (in fact, its age was evident both inside and in its driving dynamics), but its "spaceship-like" design, combined with a similar silvery mica-like color, worked brilliantly—I often found myself peeking out the window just to admire the car. It feels like the second-generation Lexus NX carries over those same design codes, updating them to be even more relevant for today’s audience.
The Lexus NX crossover has always boasted a futuristic design that, to me, resembles a spaceship—especially in this silvery-gray mica color. Additionally, the Lexus NX has consistently maintained fairly compact dimensions for its class: a length of 4.66 meters, a width of 1.865 meters, a height of 1.67 meters, and a wheelbase of 2.69 meters. The ground clearance is listed at 185–195 mm, depending on the specific version and wheel size.
The interior stands out not so much for its design but for the quality of craftsmanship and clever details. In today’s automotive world, a combination of two displays is no longer surprising: a large central touchscreen and a digital instrument panel with a small screen. However, the instrument panel features a curved shape, creating an interesting effect of slightly three-dimensional imagery. Below the central display, there are rings for adjusting the climate control temperature, which have a pleasantly tight feel and noticeable clicks when turned.
Other memorable touches include the curve of the central console with its rotary drive mode selector, a sliding shelf with wireless charging, and an elegant gear shifter. Unfortunately, one detail that also stands out is the large empty space in front of the passenger seat. It feels like it’s crying out for additional decoration to enhance this part of the dashboard.
Moreover, the Lexus specialists have proven their ability to handle these details exceptionally well. This is evident in the beautifully finished door panels, where dark soft-touch material, red leather, E-Latch electromechanical lock buttons, wooden inserts, and ambient lighting come together seamlessly—and this applies not only to the front doors but also to the rear ones.
Speaking of the rear, while it doesn’t offer an overwhelming sense of spaciousness, it also doesn’t feel like the passengers have been skimped on. Almost everything essential is included: heated seats, air vents, and an armrest. The rear bench further improves comfort with its reclining backrest. There are only two adjustment positions, but both are quite convenient—you can either lounge in a semi-reclined position or sit in a more classic upright posture.
As for the trunk, it doesn’t impress with its capacity (520 liters), but it’s meticulously crafted in every detail.
The interior design of the Lexus NX closely resembles that of the Lexus RX—no less! However, the focus has shifted from purely impressing with design to delivering outstanding materials and attention to detail. Elements such as the slightly curved digital instrument panel, temperature adjustment rings, dedicated climate control section on the central display, convenient drive mode selector, and the elegant gear lever all contribute to a highly refined impression.
That said, there are a few additions that could enhance the interior even further: decorative accents for the front passenger area, massage seats for the first row, climate control for rear passengers, and slightly more legroom. The current space is adequate but lacks the feeling of generous roominess.
Notable features like the grille beneath the rear seat and the battery in the trunk are clear indicators that this is a hybrid model.
Technology: A Variety of Options – Different Engines, Hybrids, Transmissions, and Chassis
The Lexus NX is built on the GA-K platform, featuring a unibody construction, independent suspension both front and rear, the option of front-wheel or all-wheel drive, and various transmission systems and hybrid configurations. It seems the Lexus NX offers nearly every possible variant—and all of them are available to Ukrainian buyers! I’ll touch briefly on the main configurations.
The base version of the Lexus NX comes with a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine paired with a D-CVT automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. The Lexus NX 250 also features a naturally aspirated gasoline engine, but with a 2.5-liter displacement; paired with a traditional 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
The Lexus NX 350 F Sport stands out with a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, complemented by an 8-speed automatic transmission and permanent all-wheel drive. Additionally, this version includes adaptive suspension, an extra driving mode, and body dampers for improved handling and comfort.
Finally, there are two hybrid options available. Firstly, the standard hybrid (NX 350h); secondly, for the first time in the model's history, the Lexus NX offers a new PHEV hybrid (NX 450h+) with a substantial 18.1 kWh battery and the ability to be charged from an external power source. Both hybrids feature a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine, an e-CVT (essentially a planetary transmission combining the gasoline engine and electric motor), and all-wheel drive with E-Four—rear-wheel drive is achieved through an additional electric motor.
The Lexus NX crossover features a body with a high proportion of ultra-high-strength steels; not only welding and bonding of body parts but also the use of "laser screws" (additional points of body panel connection); fully independent wheel suspensions with aluminum components. Specifically, the Lexus NX 350h test vehicle features a hybrid system based on a 2.5-liter gasoline engine with a Dual VVT-i system for variable valve timing, two electric motors (one at the front and one at the rear), and a Li-Ion battery located under the rear seat. The total power output of the Lexus NX 350h hybrid is rated at 243 horsepower, with a top speed of 200 km/h and acceleration from 0-100 km/h promised in 7.7 seconds. Fuel consumption is expected to be around 5-5.3 liters per 100 kilometers. And so…
Behind the wheel: smoothness of movement – the main trait of character
The Lexus NX 350h performs exactly as expected. This vehicle perfectly combines a smooth-hybrid system with a comfortable suspension: softness and comfort accompany you on most roads. However, the term "somewhat" fully falls within the responsibility of the 20-inch wheels on the test vehicle, which occasionally require caution on large potholes; of course, if you don’t want to damage the tire/wheel or feel a jolt. On the other hand, other versions of the Lexus NX 350h offer 18-inch wheels – and I believe that with these wheels, the suspension comfort could be undeniably excellent. However, no matter how you look at it, the best description for the character of the Lexus is undoubtedly the phrase "smoothness of movement."
Pressing the accelerator pedal, we smoothly accelerate from a standstill, reaching the desired speed effortlessly. There are no gear changes or pauses because the gasoline engine and electric motor work seamlessly together, successfully "overlapping" during operation. There is more than enough acceleration and power reserve on the highway for confident overtaking, and all of this happens very smoothly. However, this doesn't mean it's slow or delayed; quite the opposite – the electric motor is ready to engage at any moment, providing a quick response to the accelerator pedal, with the gasoline engine stepping in seamlessly thereafter. Due to this combination of smoothness and fast reactions, this hybrid Lexus NX 350h feels just as dynamic as the Lexus NX 350 F Sport with its much more powerful turbocharged engine. A great hybrid: smooth in operation, responsive in feedback, and efficient in fuel consumption. But why is it so noisy?! Each start of the gasoline engine is instantly noticeable inside the cabin due to its distinct hum. It either needs to be turned into a pleasant sound or, preferably, completely eliminated. After all, what is acceptable in a Toyota RAV4 is simply not acceptable in a Lexus NX!
Especially considering that in other aspects, this car is very quiet: aerodynamic noises, sounds from the wheel arches – everything is kept to a minimum. Combined with a comfortable suspension and a relatively light steering (making 2.4 turns lock-to-lock), all this sets a relaxed atmosphere. Despite its ample power, in the case of the Lexus NX 350h, there's really no desire to drive quickly, sharply, or dynamically. Turn the steering wheel, the car smoothly enters a curve, handling with a moderate lean – and onward we go. Reflecting on my experience with the Lexus NX 350 F Sport in the past: this version of the Lexus NX tried to be sporty – but, in my opinion, it didn’t quite succeed. Instead, the comfortable and relaxed nature of the Lexus NX 350h feels cohesive and very pleasant. I might cautiously suggest that the Lexus NX 350h is the most successful embodiment of the second-generation Lexus NX overall.
The hybrid excels with its smooth performance, quick throttle response, and efficient fuel consumption. The result: a zero to sixty in 8-8.1 seconds; and this is even with winter tires – with summer tires, the car would likely come very close to the claimed 7.7 seconds. Fuel consumption also tends to be higher than expected, yet still impressive: in the city, consistently achieving fuel consumption of 6.5-7 liters per 100 km is a remarkable feat for a 243-horsepower, 1.8-ton, 8-second crossover. Although there may be fluctuations: if driven conservatively, fuel consumption can realistically reach 4.9-5 liters per 100 km; however, with heavy traffic and/or a more dynamic driving style, it can rise to a maximum of 8-9 liters. On the highway, at a speed of 100 km/h, fuel consumption remains around 6-6.5 liters per 100 km. The choice of driving modes influences the hybrid powertrain (as well as the all-wheel drive in off-road mode), steering assistance level, and even the visual display on the instrument panel: in sport mode, the tachometer is shown. On electric power alone, the range is limited to about 1-1.5 km (due to the small battery), and even then at a moderate speed – suitable only for navigating traffic jams or short distances near the house.
Cost: How much does the Lexus NX cost and who are its competitors?
The Lexus NX is offered in Ukraine with a variety of engines (naturally aspirated or turbocharged, regular gasoline or gasoline-electric hybrid), both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options, always with automatic transmissions (CVT, traditional hydraulic automatic transmission, or electric variable transmission for hybrids), and in different trims. However, these are tightly linked; for example…
The lineup begins with the Lexus NX 200 Urban, priced at 2.1 million UAH or $50,000. This model features a 2.0-liter gasoline engine (173 hp), front-wheel drive, and a CVT transmission (D-CVT), with the following standard features: 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, a multifunctional TFT instrument panel display, a 9.8-inch color touchscreen Lexus Link Connect display, rearview camera, parking sensors, heated steering wheel and front seats, dual-zone climate control, power tailgate, seats upholstered in fabric and synthetic leather, LSS+ 3.0 safety systems, airbags and curtain airbags, E-Latch system, and keyless entry.
One level up is the Lexus NX 250 Business, priced at 2.45 million UAH or $58,000. This model features a more powerful 2.5-liter atmospheric engine (207 hp), all-wheel drive, and an 8-speed automatic transmission, along with an enhanced trim: interior upholstery in synthetic leather "Tahara," power-adjustable front seats, a switch for activating off-road driving mode, and an upgraded Lexus Premium audio system with 10 speakers, compared to the previous model's eight speakers.
The next option is the Lexus NX 350h Executive, priced at 2.64 million UAH or $63,000. This model is equipped with a hybrid powertrain (total output – 243 hp), a seamless e-CVT transmission, and all-wheel drive. Additionally, its trim includes features such as tinted rear windows, a hands-free power liftgate, blind-spot monitoring system, and a door locking system that activates when dangerous moving objects are detected behind the vehicle.
The Lexus NX 350h Executive + is offered at a price of 2.85 million UAH or $68,000. This option features an extended trim with added features such as electric steering adjustment, ventilation for front seats, driver seat memory function, and a larger 14-inch Lexus Link Pro touchscreen display, along with interior upholstery combining leather and synthetic materials.
The Lexus NX 350h Luxury is available at a price of 3.24 million UAH or $77,000. This variant offers an even more extensive trim, featuring 20-inch wheels, LED headlights with four projectors and adaptive high beam, a digital rearview mirror, panoramic glass roof, heated rear seats, head-up display, Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound system with 17 speakers, wood trim, front cross-traffic detection, and an advanced 360-degree surround view system (AVM).
Lexus NX 350 F Sport is available at a price of 3.5 million UAH or $83,000. This model features a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 279 hp, full-time all-wheel drive, and an 8-speed automatic transmission. The F Sport trim roughly matches the Luxury level, with additional elements such as black 20-inch wheels, F Sport front bumper and grille, a unique rear bumper, numerous F Sport badges, perforated leather upholstery for seats and steering wheel, sporty seat design, aluminum trim, a drive mode selector with an additional SPORT+ mode, adaptive suspension adjustment, body vibration damper (front and rear), and an active noise cancellation system.
At the top of the lineup, the Lexus NX 450h+ Executive+ is priced at 3.2 million UAH or $76,000, while the Lexus NX 450h+ Luxury is priced at 3.64 million UAH or $86,000. Both models feature a PHEV hybrid powertrain with a total output of 309 hp, a continuously variable electronic-mechanical transmission, and all-wheel drive, along with an 18.1 kWh battery for all-electric driving. The trims correspond to the previously mentioned models, with the Executive+ adding heated rear seats.
At first glance, even the base Lexus NX 200 Urban features a digital instrument panel, multimedia system, rearview camera, dual-zone climate control, and a suite of safety systems such as LSS+ 3.0 (front collision prevention, traffic sign recognition, automatic high/low beam switching, lane-keeping assist, etc.). However, if all-wheel drive is needed, the Lexus NX 250 Business with a more powerful engine and enhanced features comes with an additional $8,000. For even more advanced equipment, the Lexus NX 350 Executive adds another $5,000. Want features like matrix headlights, a heads-up display, and a surround-view camera? Then you must opt for the highest trims – leading to further additional costs. Unfortunately, Lexus does not offer the flexibility to select individual options, meaning features such as matrix headlights are only available in the top-tier trims, and even basic models like the NX 200 lack certain premium options like a surround-view system or panoramic roof, significantly impacting the overall price.
To conclude, traditionally, a brief overview of competitors. The first group includes the perennial German trio: Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Mercedes-Benz GLC. Among these, BMW X3 stands out as the most formidable competitor, featuring a completely new model that will attract maximum attention with multiple engine options and the ability to create personalized configurations. It drives well and offers a spacious interior. Other notable premium vehicles include Infiniti QX50/QX55, which, despite a slightly outdated interior, offers 250 horsepower and all-wheel drive at the starting price range of Lexus NX. Additionally, several British models are worth mentioning: the more design-focused Range Rover Evoque and Range Rover Velar, as well as the more classic Land Rover Discovery Sport.
While the list of competitors can be expanded with less conventional options. For example, Alfa Romeo Stelvio offers a historically renowned name and unique styling. The DS 7 E-Tense focuses on French luxury and advanced technologies, with an emphasis on comfort and, in its starting configurations, a relatively affordable price along with an economical diesel option. Additionally, Mazda CX-60 could be seen as a partial competitor, despite some overly ambitious expectations, but with a notably powerful 3.3-liter turbo engine. Thus, there is a variety of options to consider. However, why might the choice ultimately fall on Lexus NX? Let’s summarize…
