Is the Lexus NX a small SUV?
Yes. The Lexus NX is a compact luxury crossover SUV, commonly described as a small premium SUV by everyday standards. It sits below the RX in size, and above the subcompact UX in Lexus’s lineup—though UX remains the smallest Lexus SUV overall.
In practical terms, the NX serves as Lexus’s entry point into the compact luxury SUV segment. It combines premium interior quality, modern technology, and a footprint designed for urban driving while offering usable cargo space and available all-wheel drive.
Size and segment context
To place the NX within the Lexus SUV family, here is a quick size-based comparison of the lineup from smallest to largest among traditional crossovers:
- UX — subcompact luxury crossover (the smallest Lexus SUV)
- NX — compact luxury crossover (the main subject of this article)
- RX — midsize luxury SUV
- GX/LX — larger, full-size options in the Lexus range
In brief, the NX is considered a compact, or small, SUV within Lexus’s lineup. It is not the tiniest model in the brand’s overall catalog, since the UX is smaller, but the NX is the smallest model in the conventional, non-subcompact SUV segment for many markets.
Variants and powertrains
Across markets, the NX is offered with several powertrain options that reflect its role as a premium, efficient compact SUV. Typical configurations include turbocharged gasoline engines, hybrid variants, and, in some regions, plug-in hybrid options. Availability varies by country and model year, so buyers should consult their local Lexus dealer for the exact lineup.
Summary
The Lexus NX is a compact luxury crossover SUV. It is widely regarded as a small SUV within premium segments, positioned below the midsize RX and above the subcompact UX in Lexus’s lineup. It offers a balance of urban practicality and luxury features, with multiple powertrain options that vary by region.
What is Lexus NX comparable to?
The Lexus NX is comparable to other luxury compact SUVs like the Acura RDX, Genesis GV70, and BMW X1, but also shares a platform with the more mainstream Toyota RAV4. It can also be compared to the Lexus RX, though the RX is larger and more powerful. Key competitors also include the Infiniti QX50 and Jaguar E-Pace, as well as the Volvo XC60.
This video compares the Lexus NX to its mainstream counterpart, the Toyota RAV4: 57sShifting LanesYouTube · Jan 21, 2025
Luxury compact SUV competitors
- Acura RDX: A major rival known for safety, with comparable driver-assist features to the NX.
- Genesis GV70: Offers a premium experience and is a direct competitor in the luxury space.
- BMW X1: Another German luxury competitor in the same class.
- Infiniti QX50: Considered a close rival in the segment.
- Jaguar E-Pace: Another competitor in this class of luxury SUVs.
- Lincoln Corsair: Offers a similar level of luxury.
- Cadillac XT4: Competes with the NX and offers advanced driver-assist features.
- Volvo XC60: A key competitor with its own set of luxury and performance offerings.
You can watch this video to compare the Lexus NX and the Acura RDX: 58sRaiti's RidesYouTube · May 7, 2025
Mainstream and larger SUV comparisons
- Toyota RAV4: The NX is built on a similar platform to the RAV4, but the RAV4 is generally more practical with more cargo space and towing capacity, while the NX offers more luxury features.
- Lexus RX: The RX is the larger sibling to the NX, offering a more powerful engine but less fuel efficiency, especially in its hybrid version, though it does provide more cargo space.
- Toyota Crown Signia: This vehicle is often compared to the NX due to its similar price point, though it is a wagon that sits slightly lower.
This video compares the Lexus NX to the larger Lexus RX: 51sPerformance LexusYouTube · Aug 17, 2024
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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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.
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.
