Is Lexus NX considered midsize SUV?
The Lexus NX is classified as a compact luxury crossover SUV, not a midsize model.
In the current lineup, the NX sits below the midsize Lexus RX and other larger SUVs. This article explains how size metrics and market labeling place the NX in the compact category, while still highlighting its premium features and powertrain options.
Size, space, and market positioning
Size metrics help determine whether a vehicle is compact or midsize. For the NX, these indicators align with the compact segment rather than midsize models.
Key size indicators for the NX, and how they compare to typical midsize models, include its overall length, wheelbase, interior passenger volume, and cargo capacity.
- Overall length: about 183 inches (model years around 2022–2024)
- Wheelbase: about 106.9 inches
- Passenger volume: in the low-to-mid-90s cubic feet
- Cargo space: 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats; up to 53.7 cubic feet with rear seats folded
These figures place the NX squarely in the compact class, as opposed to the longer wheelbases and larger cargo areas typical of midsize SUVs.
NX in the Lexus lineup and model-year evolution
Automakers and reviewers typically categorize the NX as a compact luxury SUV, with the RX occupying the next size tier in Lexus’s own lineup. The NX underwent a major overhaul for the 2022 model year, adopting a new design language, updated interior tech, and a turbocharged engine option, along with hybrid variants such as the NX 350h and NX 450h+ in certain markets. These changes reinforced its role as a premium, compact offering rather than a full-size or three-row midsize SUV.
What separates compact from midsize in practice
Beyond raw measurements, buyers consider interior space, seating configuration, and cargo flexibility. Most midsize models offer more rear-seat legroom, larger cargo areas, and, in many cases, a higher seating position or optional third row. The NX prioritizes urban practicality, efficiency, and a premium, technology-forward cabin over the extended space and versatility often associated with midsize SUVs.
Summary
Bottom line: The Lexus NX remains a compact luxury SUV. Its dimensions, interior layout, and market labeling align with the compact segment, while its premium features and available powertrains keep it competitive against other small luxury crossovers. For shoppers seeking a larger, more spacious midsize SUV with more cargo and seating options, models like the Lexus RX or other midsize rivals would be the next step up.
What class SUV is Lexus NX?
compact luxury crossover SUV
The Lexus NX (Japanese: レクサス・NX, Hepburn: Rekusasu NX) is a compact luxury crossover SUV sold by Lexus, a luxury division of Toyota. Introduced in late 2014, it is positioned between the subcompact UX and the mid-size RX in Lexus' crossover SUV lineup.
Is the Lexus NX the same size as a CRV?
The Honda CR-V is larger than the Lexus NX, especially in cargo space, with significantly more room both with the rear seats up and folded down. For example, the CR-V offers 39.339.339.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats compared to the NX's 22.722.722.7 cubic feet. When the rear seats are folded, the CR-V has 76.576.576.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, while the NX has 46.946.946.9 cubic feet.
This video compares the cargo space of the 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Honda CR-V Hybrid, and Lexus NX 350h: 16sCar Help CornerYouTube · Dec 24, 2023
| Feature | Honda CR-V | Lexus NX |
|---|---|---|
| Cargo Space (behind rear seats) | 39.339.339.3 cubic feet | 22.722.722.7 cubic feet |
| Maximum Cargo Space (rear seats folded) | 76.576.576.5 cubic feet | 46.946.946.9 cubic feet |
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- The CR-V also has a lower lift-over height for easier loading, measuring 282828 inches compared to the NX's 30.830.830.8 inches.
- While the NX is a compact luxury SUV, the CR-V is a practical compact SUV that is generally seen as having more overall interior and cargo volume.
Which is bigger, Lexus NX or RAV4?
The Toyota RAV4 is slightly bigger than the Lexus NX, particularly in terms of cargo space and rear passenger room. While their external dimensions are very similar, with the NX being slightly longer and wider, the RAV4 offers more rear legroom and a significantly larger cargo area.
| Feature | Lexus NX | Toyota RAV4 |
|---|---|---|
| Cargo Space | 46.946.946.9 cubic feet (max) | 69.869.869.8 cubic feet (max) |
| Rear Legroom | 36.136.136.1 inches | 37.837.837.8 inches |
| Length | 183.5183.5183.5 inches | 180.9180.9180.9 inches |
| Width | 73.473.473.4 inches | 73.073.073.0 inches |
| Height | 65.75−66.165.75 minus 66.165.75−66.1 inches | 67.0−67.267.0 minus 67.267.0−67.2 inches |
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Is the Lexus NX a compact or midsize SUV?
Compact SUVs
Compact SUVs include the NX and RZ, each below a 190-inch length with impressive cargo specs and second-row legroom. Our first midsize SUV, the RX, has a five-seat configuration while boasting 46.2 cubic feet of cargo room and a 67.3-inch height.
