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Is the Lexus NX fully electric?

In short: no. As of 2025, the Lexus NX is not a fully electric vehicle. The NX lineup includes gasoline-powered models, a hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid, while Lexus’ stand-alone fully electric SUV is the RZ 450e rather than the NX.


Overview of the Lexus NX lineup


The NX family has grown to offer multiple powertrain choices designed to balance performance and efficiency. In most markets, buyers encounter a conventional gasoline variant, a hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid. Lexus positions the NX within its electrified strategy, but a dedicated battery-electric NX does not currently exist as a global production model. Availability can vary by region.


Current NX powertrain options


The main drivetrain choices available for the NX in many markets are described below.



  • Gasoline-only NX models: These are traditional internal-combustion vehicles with no plug-in charging capability.

  • Hybrid NX 350h: A self-charging hybrid that combines a gasoline engine with electric motors to improve fuel economy without needing external charging.

  • Plug-in hybrid NX 450h+: A PHEV that can drive short distances on electric power when charged, before the gasoline engine assists or takes over.


In summary, these variants cover the NX lineup’s typical powertrains, but none are a full battery electric vehicle. If you want a Lexus BEV today, you would look to a dedicated electric model rather than the NX.


What this means for buyers


For daily driving, charging access, and total ownership costs, your choice should reflect how far you typically travel on a workday and whether you have reliable charging options. The NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid offers a useful amount of electric driving for short commutes, while the NX 350h hybrid improves efficiency on longer trips without needing to plug in. If a pure electric experience is your priority, consider Lexus’ dedicated BEV option.


Beyond the NX: Lexus' BEV strategy


Lexus is expanding its electrified lineup beyond the NX, focusing BEV development on models built on purpose-built electric architectures. The brand’s dedicated BEV in its current lineup is the RZ 450e, and future models are expected to broaden access to battery-electric driving while the NX remains non-electric in most markets.


RZ 450e: the brand's dedicated BEV


The RZ 450e represents Lexus’ first purpose-built battery-electric SUV, illustrating the company’s shift toward electrification. It serves as the flagship BEV in the Lexus lineup, with performance and range characteristics tailored to electric powertrains, while the NX remains offered in gasoline and electrified (hybrid and plug-in hybrid) forms.


Summary


Bottom line: the Lexus NX is not fully electric. It is offered in gasoline and electrified configurations (hybrid and plug-in hybrid), whereas a true BEV version of the NX does not exist in the current lineup. For buyers prioritizing a pure electric experience from Lexus, the RZ 450e is the relevant option, as the company continues to roll out more BEV models in the coming years.

Which Lexus model is fully electric?


RZ ALL
RZ ALL ELECTRIC
The first-ever fully electric Lexus, the RZ exhilarates with available DIRECT4 all-wheel drive and inspires with premium touches throughout the cabin.



Is the Lexus NX just a RAV4?


No, the Lexus NX is not just a RAV4; it is a more luxurious and refined compact SUV that shares a platform with the Toyota RAV4 but differentiates itself with premium materials, different engine options, more advanced technology, and a higher price point. While both are built on the same TNGA-K platform, the NX offers a more upscale experience and performance variations. 
Key differences 
This video highlights the differences in size and cargo space between the Lexus NX and Toyota RAV4: 54sJosh on CarsYouTube · Apr 9, 2023

Feature Lexus NX Toyota RAV4
Design and Interior Focuses on luxury with premium materials, a more upscale interior design, and a sportier, coupe-like exterior. Emphasizes practicality and utility with a more traditional, boxy SUV design.
Powertrain Offers more engine options, including turbocharged and plug-in hybrid variants, with higher horsepower outputs on some models. Provides fewer engine options but includes a very popular hybrid powertrain.
Technology Features more premium technology, such as larger touchscreens, available head-up displays, and more advanced safety systems on some trims. Offers capable and practical technology, with features like a 10.5-inch touchscreen standard on many models.
Price and Value Has a higher starting price, requires premium fuel, and comes with a higher cost of ownership. Is more budget-friendly and a better value, with lower depreciation and better fuel efficiency.
Space Generally has less cargo space and a tighter rear seat compared to the RAV4 due to its sportier design. Offers more cargo space and a more spacious interior due to its taller and more utilitarian design.
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Is the Lexus NX gas powered?


The 2025 Lexus NX offers Lexington drivers four winning powertrains, each with its own powerful engine that is a thrill to drive. Whether you're looking for a conventional gas-powered commuter, hybrid vehicle, or plug-in electric hybrid, the Lexus NX has you covered for every Irmo trip.



Do you have to plug-in a Lexus NX hybrid?


Most of the time you're driving, your battery is charging. Not just on the move, but when you stop or slow down, our regenerative braking system recovers even more energy without you having to do a thing. Lexus Self-charging hybrids never need plugging in.


Kevin's Auto

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.