Is the Lexus Nx 300 a small SUV?
The Lexus NX 300 is a compact luxury crossover SUV, one of the smaller members of Lexus’s lineup. In today’s market, the badge is more commonly replaced by NX 350 and NX 350h in new models, but the NX 300 name has appeared on older generations and in some markets.
What the NX 300 is and how it fits in the Lexus lineup
The NX family is Lexus’s compact luxury crossover range. The NX 300 badge has been used on various generations and trims, typically denoting a gas-powered setup on earlier models. In recent years, Lexus has shifted toward newer naming for the current generation—NX 350 (gas turbo) and NX 350h (hybrid)—which means NX 300 is now largely a legacy badge in markets like the United States. Some markets outside the U.S. may still feature NX 300 names on specific trims or older model years.
Below is a quick snapshot of where the NX 300 sits within the lineup and how it compares in size and scope to other Lexus SUVs.
Here are the key facts that distinguish the NX 300’s size and positioning in the Lexus lineup:
- Classification: compact luxury crossover SUV
- Size positioning: smaller than Lexus’s mid-size RX, larger than the subcompact UX
- Current badge usage: modern U.S. buyers are more likely to see NX 350 or NX 350h; NX 300 is largely a legacy or market-specific designation
In summary, the NX 300 is a compact SUV badge that has evolved with the model line. Today’s buyers should expect NX 350 or NX 350h as the standard current-options labels, with NX 300 appearing mainly on older generations or certain international markets.
How the NX 300 compares in size and dimensions
What this means for buyers
For shoppers focused on the present lineup, the NX 350 (gas turbo) and NX 350h (hybrid) are the standard offerings in many markets. The NX 300 badge remains relevant mainly for historical reference or when evaluating used-car inventories from older generations. If you’re shopping new, expect the NX 350 and NX 350h rather than a new NX 300.
How to identify the model you’re looking at
When shopping, look at the exterior badge and the powertrain designation on the window sticker or VIN. A “350” badge typically indicates a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, while a badge with an “h” denotes a hybrid. If you encounter a current year model labeled NX 300, verify the exact year and market, since it may reflect an older generation or a regional naming convention.
Bottom line
The Lexus NX 300 is a compact luxury crossover SUV, placing it among the smaller end of Lexus’s SUV range. In today’s lineup, the newer models you’ll see most often are the NX 350 and NX 350h, with NX 300 persisting mainly as a legacy badge on older generations or in certain markets.
Summary
Answering the question directly: yes, the NX 300 is considered a compact luxury crossover SUV. In current Lexus marketing and showroom practice, however, the NX 350 and NX 350h are the prevailing names for the modern gas and hybrid variants. If you’re researching or shopping, check the model year and region to determine whether NX 300 refers to a legacy model or a current alternative in your market, and rely on the NX 350/350h labels for the latest options.
What is the Lexus NX 300 comparable to?
Its close rivals include the Acura RDX, Infinity QX50, and Jaguar E-Pace, but as you'll see below, it's able to stand out from those models in more ways than one.
What are the nx 300's common problems?
The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.
- Brakes.
- Noises/Leaks.
- Engine Major.
- Climate System.
- Electrical Accessories.
- In-car Electronics.
- Drive System.
- Suspension/Steering.
Is the Lexus NX considered a small SUV?
The 2025 Lexus NX, NX Hybrid, and NX Plug-In Hybrid are the second-smallest Lexus SUV models; they are five-seat compact crossovers that measure 183.5 inches long. The 2025 Lexus RZ is the third-smallest Lexus SUV; it's a compact all-electric crossover with five seats and 189.2 inches of length.
Is the Lexus NX the same size as a RAV4?
No, the Lexus NX and Toyota RAV4 are not the same size, though they are similar, with the RAV4 generally offering more interior space and cargo capacity due to its more boxy and upright design, while the NX has a sportier, more stylized appearance. The NX is slightly longer and wider but lower than the RAV4, which contributes to a more coupe-like profile.
You can watch this video to see a comparison of the Lexus NX and Toyota RAV4: 1mPerformance LexusYouTube · May 4, 2024
| Toyota RAV4 | Lexus NX | |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior Style | Boxy and rugged | Sporty and coupe-like |
| Cargo Space | Significantly more, with up to 69.8 cubic feet with seats folded down | Less than the RAV4, with up to 46.9 cubic feet with seats folded down |
| Interior Space | Slightly more headroom and legroom for rear passengers | Slightly less headroom and rear legroom |
| Dimensions | Slightly shorter and narrower than the NX | Slightly longer and wider but lower than the RAV4 |
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