How fast is the Lexus NX 350h?
The Lexus NX 350h accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 7.0–7.5 seconds, depending on drivetrain and conditions, with a top speed around 110–112 mph. It trades outright sprint for refined, efficient highway and city performance.
Powertrain and performance figures
The NX 350h blends a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with two electric motors to deliver a combined system output of about 239 horsepower. It uses an electronic continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) and offers a choice of front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). The hybrid system is tuned to prioritize smooth, steady acceleration and everyday usability over outright speed.
Below are the core numbers you might want to know about the NX 350h's speed and performance.
- Combined system output: 239 horsepower
- Drivetrain options: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
- Transmission: Electronic CVT (e-CVT)
- 0–60 mph: approximately 7.0–7.5 seconds (varies by drivetrain and conditions)
- Top speed: electronically limited to around 110–112 mph
In practice, the NX 350h delivers responsive but restrained acceleration, with a emphasis on quiet operation and smooth power delivery rather than aggressive overtaking ability.
Real-world driving and impressions
On the road, the NX 350h feels refined and comfortable. The hybrid powertrain provides assistance at takeoff and during light-throttle driving, and the e-CVT ensures a seamless transition between electric and gasoline power. The driving experience emphasizes steadiness and efficiency, which helps it feel quick enough for everyday merging and passing without the drama of a high-performance turbo.
EV mode and efficiency
Because the NX 350h is a non-plug-in hybrid, it cannot be charged externally. It relies on the gasoline engine and its battery to assist during acceleration and city driving. In typical urban use, drivers may notice brief periods of electric assist at very low speeds, but sustained electric-only driving is limited. The overall design prioritizes steady, efficient progress over raw speed, making it a practical choice for daily use.
Summary
The Lexus NX 350h offers a balanced blend of efficiency and usable speed. With 239 horsepower from its hybrid system, 0–60 mph times around 7.0–7.5 seconds, and a top speed near 110–112 mph, it prioritizes refined, quiet acceleration and everyday practicality over sportscar-like performance. It’s well-suited for drivers who value comfort, smoothness, and fuel efficiency in a compact luxury SUV.
Is the Lexus NX just a RAV4?
No, the Lexus NX is not just a RAV4; it is a more luxurious and refined compact SUV that shares a platform with the Toyota RAV4 but differentiates itself with premium materials, different engine options, more advanced technology, and a higher price point. While both are built on the same TNGA-K platform, the NX offers a more upscale experience and performance variations.
Key differences
This video highlights the differences in size and cargo space between the Lexus NX and Toyota RAV4: 54sJosh on CarsYouTube · Apr 9, 2023
| Feature | Lexus NX | Toyota RAV4 |
|---|---|---|
| Design and Interior | Focuses on luxury with premium materials, a more upscale interior design, and a sportier, coupe-like exterior. | Emphasizes practicality and utility with a more traditional, boxy SUV design. |
| Powertrain | Offers more engine options, including turbocharged and plug-in hybrid variants, with higher horsepower outputs on some models. | Provides fewer engine options but includes a very popular hybrid powertrain. |
| Technology | Features more premium technology, such as larger touchscreens, available head-up displays, and more advanced safety systems on some trims. | Offers capable and practical technology, with features like a 10.5-inch touchscreen standard on many models. |
| Price and Value | Has a higher starting price, requires premium fuel, and comes with a higher cost of ownership. | Is more budget-friendly and a better value, with lower depreciation and better fuel efficiency. |
| Space | Generally has less cargo space and a tighter rear seat compared to the RAV4 due to its sportier design. | Offers more cargo space and a more spacious interior due to its taller and more utilitarian design. |
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What is the 0-60 time for the Lexus NX 350h?
The 0–60 mph time for the Lexus NX 350h is 7.2 seconds for the all-wheel-drive (AWD) model and 8.2 seconds for the front-wheel-drive (FWD) model. The AWD version has a 0–60 mph time of 7.2 seconds due to its more powerful hybrid system, while the FWD model is slightly slower at 8.2 seconds.
You can watch this video to see a real-world 0-60 mph test of the Lexus NX 350h: 1mPaul's PlaceYouTube · Mar 12, 2025
- AWD Model: 7.2 seconds
- FWD Model: 8.2 seconds
What is the difference between NX 350 and NX 350h?
The main differences are performance, fuel economy, and drivetrain. The NX 350 has a more powerful, turbocharged gasoline engine, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and a more traditional all-wheel-drive (AWD) system for a sportier feel. The NX 350h uses a hybrid system with a continuously variable automatic transmission (ECVT), offers significantly better fuel efficiency (especially in the city), and a slightly less powerful engine with smooth acceleration. The 350h is better for city driving and fuel savings, while the 350 is better for those who prioritize traditional driving dynamics and highway performance.
This video explains the differences between the Lexus NX 350h and the NX 350: 52sLife with SondurenYouTube · Mar 13, 2023
Lexus NX 350
- Engine: 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 275 hp
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Fuel Economy: Lower, with an estimated 21 MPG city and 28 MPG highway
- Drivetrain: Traditional AWD system with a center limited-slip differential, providing more engaging performance
- Best For: Drivers who prefer a sportier, more traditional driving experience and spend more time on the highway
This video provides a detailed review of the Lexus NX 350: 1mEveryman DriverYouTube · Nov 16, 2025
Lexus NX 350h
- Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder with hybrid assistance
- Horsepower: 240 hp total system output
- Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT)
- Fuel Economy: Much higher, with an estimated 41 MPG city and 37 MPG highway
- Drivetrain: AWD, but it's a hybrid system where the rear axle is powered by an electric motor
- Best For: City driving and drivers looking to maximize fuel efficiency
Key takeaways
- Choose the NX 350 if: You want a more powerful and engaging driving experience, especially during acceleration, and are willing to accept lower fuel economy.
- Choose the NX 350h if: You prioritize fuel savings, do a lot of city driving, and want a smoother, quieter ride. The hybrid system provides strong low-end acceleration, even if highway passing power is not as strong as the 350.
Is the Lexus NX350 fast?
The lower center of gravity and enhancements in vehicle dynamics combine for the capable performance of the 2.4L turbo on the NX 350. An eight-speed transmission supports the luxury crossover's 275 horsepower and 317 lb. ft. of torque with a 0-60 time of 6.6 seconds.
