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Is the Lexus NX compact or subcompact?

The Lexus NX is a compact luxury crossover SUV.

Defining the classification

In automotive terms, subcompact crossovers are smaller and typically more affordable, while compact crossovers offer more interior space, cargo capacity, and premium features. The Lexus NX sits in the compact category, larger than Lexus’s subcompact UX but smaller than mid-size rivals like the RX. This positioning informs its balance of maneuverability, comfort, and practicality.

What follows explains how this classification is determined and how the NX compares with both subcompact and larger rivals.

Here are the general criteria used to distinguish subcompact from compact crossovers:

Length and overall footprint (subcompact tends to be shorter; compact models are longer)

Wheelbase (compact crossovers typically have a longer wheelbase for more interior room)

Interior space and cargo capacity (compact models offer noticeably more room for passengers and luggage)

Seating comfort and usable rear legroom

Positioning in manufacturer lineups and pricing

By these measures, the NX lands in the compact class with a premium interior, stronger feature sets, and a size that appeals to buyers who want luxury and practicality without moving up to a mid-size SUV.

NX positioning in the Lexus lineup

The NX sits between the subcompact UX and the mid-size RX in Lexus’s SUV family. It shares some underpinnings with other Toyota products but is tuned and equipped to emphasize upscale materials, quietness, and a modern tech suite. The move from UX to NX represents a meaningful step up in interior quality, features, and overall interior volume, while still offering a compact footprint for city driving and easy parking.

Versions and powertrains

In recent years, the NX has been offered with several powertrain choices that illustrate its compact-luxury positioning. The following are representative options seen in the current generation:

Here is a concise list of the main NX powertrain options you typically encounter:

NX250: 2.5-liter normally aspirated inline-4 gasoline engine with available all-wheel drive

NX350: 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 with stronger performance and brisk acceleration

NX450h+: plug-in hybrid variant that combines a hybrid system with electric propulsion for extended efficiency

These options give the NX a blend of everyday efficiency, capable driving dynamics, and, in the case of the plug-in variant, limited all-electric range—still within the compact-luxury segment.

What this means for buyers

For shoppers, the NX’s classification as a compact crossover translates to a balance of premium comfort and practical space. It typically offers more interior room and standard features than subcompact rivals, while remaining easier to maneuver and more affordable than larger mid-size luxury crossovers. In the competitive landscape, the NX is commonly compared with compact-luxury models such as the Audi Q3/Q5, BMW X3, and Mercedes-Benz GLC, where it emphasizes refined interiors, advanced technology, and efficient powertrains.

Here is what buyers can expect from the NX in this class:

Five-passenger seating with comfortable front and rear accommodations

Flexible cargo space suitable for everyday use and weekend trips

Strong standard safety and driver-assistance features, with premium options

A mix of efficient and performance-oriented powertrains, including hybrid options

In summary, the Lexus NX is best described as a compact luxury crossover—larger and more premium than Lexus’s subcompact UX, yet not as spacious or upscale as its mid-size siblings. This makes it a practical choice for buyers who want premium refinement in a smaller footprint.

Summary

The Lexus NX is a compact luxury crossover SUV, positioned above the subcompact UX and below mid-size rivals like the RX. Its size, interior design, and powertrain lineup reflect the compact-class emphasis on a balance of efficiency, practicality, and premium features. For buyers weighing subcompact alternatives, the NX offers more room and refinement; for those considering larger SUVs, it represents a more efficient, easier-to-maneuver option without sacrificing luxury.

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

Is the Lexus NX a subcompact 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.

What category is the Lexus NX?

The Lexus NX belongs to the compact luxury SUV or compact crossover SUV category. It is a five-passenger vehicle that is smaller than the midsize Lexus RX SUV and is known for its refined style, innovative technology, and various powertrain options, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid models.

Class: Compact luxury SUV/crossover
Positioning: Sits between the smaller Lexus UX and the larger Lexus RX in the Lexus lineup
Seating: Typically seats up to five passengers
Powertrain options: Includes gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options

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

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.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.