Is the Lexus NX fast?
Yes—though the speed you feel depends on the variant. The turbocharged NX350 and the plug-in hybrid NX450h+ deliver noticeably brisk acceleration for a compact luxury SUV, while the base NX250 is adequate for daily driving but not a standout in quickness.
This article breaks down how fast the NX lineup is, what to expect from each powertrain, and how those numbers translate to real-world driving in today’s market. We’ll also place the NX’s performance in the context of its rivals in the compact luxury SUV segment.
Performance by variant
Here are typical 0-60 mph figures across the current NX lineup, with notes on drivetrain and powertrain effects. Actual times vary by year, trim, and testing conditions.
- NX250 — approximately 7.5–8.0 seconds to 60 mph; all-wheel-drive and tires can shift the number a bit, with a top speed around 125 mph.
- NX350 — typically 6.4–6.8 seconds to 60 mph; turbocharged 2.4L provides strong midrange torque, with AWD variants often running toward the quicker end of the spectrum.
- NX350h — about 7.0–7.7 seconds to 60 mph; hybrid torque helps low-end response, but added weight can temper peak acceleration slightly.
- NX450h+ — around 6.0–6.5 seconds to 60 mph; plug-in hybrid benefits from electric boost and often feels the quickest NX in everyday driving.
Bottom line: If speed is a priority, the NX350 and especially the NX450h+ offer the most acceleration, while the NX250 prioritizes efficiency and refinement over outright quickness.
Real-world driving feel and driving modes
In everyday use, throttle response and throttle mapping matter as much as the official numbers. The NX350’s turbo engine responds quickly, particularly in Sport mode, which sharpens throttle and shifts for a more immediate feel. The NX450h+ leverages electric torque for instant push from a stop and meaningful midrange oomph when the battery is charged, making it noticeably quicker in real traffic. The NX250 remains smooth and quiet, but its acceleration is more suited to comfortable commuting than sporty running.
How the NX stacks up against rivals
Among its peers in the compact luxury SUV segment, the NX350 and NX450h+ typically offer acceleration that competes with or surpasses many rivals in similar power bands, while still delivering Lexus refinement and ride quality. Cars like the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Mercedes GLC each have quicker variants, but the NX’s balance of speed, comfort, and technology keeps it competitive for a broad range of buyers.
Efficiency and practicality
Speed isn’t the only factor buyers weigh. The NX350h and NX450h+ generally deliver strong efficiency for their class, with the NX450h+ offering a meaningful electric-range advantage when charged. The NX350 provides a strong compromise between performance and fuel economy, while the NX250 prioritizes economy and a quiet, smooth ride. Cargo space and interior comfort remain strong selling points across the lineup.
Summary
The Lexus NX presents a clear performance ladder: the base NX250 delivers dependable, everyday acceleration and efficiency; the NX350 adds genuine briskness with its turbocharged engine; and the NX450h+ combines electric torque with gasoline power for the fastest, most responsive acceleration in the lineup. For buyers who want tempo and refinement in a compact luxury SUV, the higher-performance trims are where the NX feels notably fast, while the base model remains a practical, economical choice.
