Is the Lexus NX 300h a hybrid?

Yes. The Lexus NX 300h is the hybrid variant of the NX compact SUV, pairing a gasoline engine with an electric motor to deliver propulsion through a hybrid system. It is a self-charging hybrid, not a plug-in model.

This article explains what makes the NX 300h a hybrid, how it fits into Lexus’ current lineup, and how it compares with newer hybrid options such as the NX 350h and NX 450h+. It also notes how the NX 300h is viewed in today’s market.

What is the NX 300h?

Here are the core features that define the NX 300h’s hybrid setup:

• Hybrid drivetrain: A 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle inline-four gasoline engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output that competes with other compact-hybrid systems.


• Electric motor assistance: The electric motor provides propulsion and assists the gasoline engine, improving efficiency and smoothness.


• Transmission: An electronically controlled CVT (continuously variable transmission) that manages power from both the gasoline engine and the electric motor.


• Self-charging: The battery is charged through braking and engine-generated energy; there is no external plug-in charging requirement.


• All-wheel-drive option: While commonly equipped with front-wheel drive, a more capable all-wheel-drive variant was available in some markets.

In brief, the NX 300h uses Toyota/Lexus’ Hybrid Synergy Drive to deliver a fuel-efficient, self-contained hybrid experience without a plug-in charging option.

How the NX 300h fits in today’s Lexus hybrid lineup

Before delving into comparisons, it’s helpful to situate the NX 300h within Lexus’ current hybrid strategy. The name and family of hybrid NX models have evolved, with newer models adopting updated naming and powertrain configurations.

Below is a quick look at how the NX 300h relates to today’s options:

• Current hybrid name: In recent years, Lexus has marketed the NX hybrid as the NX 350h in many markets, replacing the NX 300h as the standard hybrid variant.


• Powertrain evolution: The NX 350h uses a refined 2.5-liter hybrid system designed for improved efficiency and smoother performance over older NX 300h configurations.


• Plug-in option: For customers seeking a plug-in hybrid, the NX 450h+ (where offered) is the PHEV variant, distinct from the non-plug-in NX 350h.


• Market availability: While the NX 300h name persists in historical or used-market references, new-car shopping today typically involves the NX 350h (hybrid) or NX 450h+ (PHEV) where offered.

Overall, if you’re shopping new, you’re more likely to encounter the NX 350h as the contemporary hybrid option, with the NX 450h+ available where plug-in hybrids are offered. The NX 300h remains part of Lexus’ legacy lineup and is more commonly found in used inventories.

Summary

The Lexus NX 300h is indeed a hybrid, built around a 2.5-liter gas engine paired with an electric motor and a self-charging hybrid system. In today’s market, Lexus’ hybrid options have shifted to the NX 350h (non-plug-in) and the NX 450h+ (plug-in), with the NX 300h primarily appearing in older models and used-car listings. If you want a modern hybrid NX, the NX 350h is the closest current-equipment equivalent, while the NX 450h+ covers plug-in needs.

Is the Lexus NX 300h hybrid?

2021 Lexus NX 300h Performance Specs
Each NX 300h is built around a four-cylinder engine and Lexus Hybrid Powertrain paired to an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (ECVT). The NX 300h also includes standard all-wheel drive (AWD) in every trim.

What are common NX 300h problems?

Faulty sensors. Weak or imbalanced battery cells. Inverter or ECU issues.

What is the difference between Lexus NX and NX hybrid?

The main difference between the Lexus NX and the NX Hybrid is their powertrain: the standard NX uses a traditional gasoline engine, while the NX Hybrid combines a gasoline engine with electric motors for better fuel efficiency. This difference results in the NX Hybrid offering significantly higher MPG, while the standard NX models provide a more traditional driving experience and a wider range of power options, such as the turbocharged NX 350. 
This video explains the differences between the standard and hybrid Lexus NX models, focusing on their powertrains and transmissions: 41sModern MotoringYouTube · Mar 9, 2024
Performance

• Standard NX (e.g., NX 250, NX 350): The standard models offer a range of gasoline engines, including a 203-horsepower naturally aspirated engine and a 275-horsepower turbocharged engine. The NX 350, for example, has a more traditional and powerful acceleration profile with an 8-speed automatic transmission. 
• NX Hybrid (e.g., NX 350h, NX 450h+): The hybrid models use a combination of a gasoline engine and electric motors, resulting in a smoother and more responsive feel, especially at lower speeds. 
  • The NX 350h produces a combined 240 horsepower. 
  • The NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid delivers 304 horsepower and can operate on all-electric power for a certain range. 

This video discusses the performance of the Lexus NX 350h and NX 350: 54sModern MotoringYouTube · Aug 7, 2025
Fuel Efficiency

• Standard NX: Expect lower MPG compared to the hybrid, with ratings like 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway for the NX 250 and 21 mpg city / 28 mpg highway for the NX 350. 
• NX Hybrid: The hybrid versions are significantly more fuel-efficient. 
  • The NX 350h has an EPA-estimated rating of 41 mpg city / 37 mpg highway. 
  • The NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid can achieve an impressive 84 MPGe combined, with up to 37 miles of all-electric range. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the fuel efficiency of the Lexus NX 350h: 51sMotor City MaggieYouTube · Jun 26, 2025
Similarities

• Design: The standard NX and NX Hybrid share the same modern and sophisticated exterior design language. 
• Interior and Technology: Both models offer a luxurious interior, advanced technology, and safety features, such as the Lexus Interface, with standard safety systems like LSS+ 3.0. 

How to choose

• Choose the Standard NX if: You prefer a more traditional gasoline engine with a wider variety of performance options and don't prioritize maximum fuel efficiency.
• Choose the NX Hybrid if: Fuel economy is your top priority and you want to save on gas expenses. The hybrid models offer a smoother driving experience and lower emissions, with the NX 450h+ providing the additional benefit of all-electric driving. 

Does the Lexus NX 300h hybrid require premium gas?

Yes, the Lexus NX requires premium gas.
If you use fuel with an octane rating of less than 91, it can damage your engine. To figure out the octane level of the gas you're buying, check the numbers on the pump. Each fuel option will let you know how much octane is in the gas you're buying.