Is the Lexus NX a 6 cylinder?
The short answer: no. The Lexus NX uses four-cylinder engines—turbocharged gasoline, a hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid in some markets—and has never offered a six-cylinder option in this model line.
Overview of the NX engine options
Here are the main engine configurations you’ll find in current NX models.
- Turbocharged 2.0-liter or 2.4-liter inline-four gasoline engine (the latter is used in the NX 350 variant in many markets).
- 2.5-liter inline-four hybrid powertrain (the NX 350h), which combines a gasoline engine with electric motors for improved efficiency.
- Plug-in hybrid variant (the NX 450h+ in markets where it’s offered), built on the hybrid setup with a larger battery for electric-only driving ranges.
In brief, every NX option relies on four cylinders, with choices that range from conventional gasoline to electrified powertrains, depending on market availability.
Why Lexus sticks to four cylinders for the NX
Lexus has designed the NX around riders who value efficiency and city-friendly performance in a compact luxury SUV. The four-cylinder architecture helps keep weight down, improves fuel economy, and aligns with the NX’s positioning as a practical, entry-luxury crossover. A V6 option has not been part of the NX lineup, though some Lexus models outside the NX family do offer six-cylinder engines.
Performance and efficiency considerations
The turbocharged gasoline four delivers responsive acceleration for its class, while the Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid variants emphasize smoother operation and better fuel savings over the daily commute. Availability of the plug-in option varies by region and model year, but all NX powertrains share the core four-cylinder architecture.
Summary
Bottom line: there is no six-cylinder Lexus NX. The current NX lineup uses four-cylinder engines across gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid configurations, offering a balance of performance and efficiency tailored to urban and suburban driving. For buyers seeking a V6-powered Lexus SUV, options exist in other model lines, but not within the NX family.
