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What cylinder is the Lexus NX hybrid?

The Lexus NX hybrid uses a four-cylinder engine.


Beyond the basic question, the NX lineup pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with electric motors in its hybrid configurations. In most markets, the core options are the self-charging NX 350h and the plug-in NX 450h+, both built around the same four-cylinder base and electrified drivetrain. There is no V6 option in the NX hybrid family.


Engine configuration and cylinder count


All NX hybrid models rely on a 2.5-liter inline-four gasoline engine paired with electric motors. The engine operates in Atkinson-cycle mode to maximize efficiency, and the hybrid system uses an electric continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) to blend power from the engine and motors. Across the NX hybrids, the cylinder count remains four, prioritizing efficiency and smooth operation over larger-displacement options.


Two main hybrid configurations


Below is a concise look at the two primary NX hybrid configurations offered in many markets. The list highlights how each variant uses the same four-cylinder core with different battery and electric-motor setups.



  • NX 350h: Self-charging hybrid with the 2.5-liter inline-4 engine paired with electric motors; no plug-in charging capability.

  • NX 450h+: Plug-in hybrid variant with a larger battery and electric motors; can operate on electric power for short distances and offers higher total system output in markets where it is available.


Both variants share the four-cylinder engine foundation, with the primary differences being battery capacity, electric range, and overall performance characteristics rather than a different engine cylinder configuration.


What this means for buyers


From a cylinder perspective, the NX hybrid lineup remains four-cylinder across the board. The choice between 350h and 450h+ is driven by battery size and the degree of electrification you want — including whether you need an electric-only driving option — rather than a change in engine architecture.


Summary


The Lexus NX hybrid is powered by a four-cylinder inline-4 engine paired with an electric drivetrain in both its self-charging (350h) and plug-in (450h+) variants. This configuration emphasizes efficiency, quiet operation, and refined daily driving without introducing a V6 option in the NX lineup.

Is the Lexus NX 4 or 6 cylinder?


Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2025 NX has two nonhybrid powertrain options. The base NX250 comes with a 203-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder, while the NX350 is powered by a 275-hp turbocharged 2.4-liter.



Which Lexus SUV has a 6 cylinder?


Lexus offers several 6-cylinder SUVs, most of which are powered by a twin-turbocharged V6 engine. The LX is a large luxury SUV with a twin-turbo V6, and the GX is a rugged, mid-size SUV also featuring a twin-turbo V6. Additionally, the TX 550h+ is a plug-in hybrid SUV with a 6-cylinder engine.
 
Lexus LX

  • Engine: Twin-turbocharged V6 (gas or hybrid option) 
  • Horsepower: Up to 457 net combined horsepower in the 700h hybrid model 
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 8,000 pounds 
  • Features: Body-on-frame construction and a spacious interior, representing the flagship luxury SUV 

Lexus GX
  • Engine: 3.4L twin-turbo V6
  • Horsepower: 349 horsepower
  • Torque: 479 lb-ft
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 9,096 pounds
  • Features: Body-on-frame construction, making it ideal for off-road adventures 

Lexus TX
  • Engine: V6 plug-in hybrid option (in the TX 550h+)
  • Features: Three-row seating, with a plug-in hybrid option available in the TX 550h+ 



What are the common problems with the NX hybrid?


A 2020 Lexus NX Hybrid is experiencing power loss, increased fuel consumption, black smoke from the exhaust, engine stalling, and a strong exhaust smell. These issues may be linked to a low-pressure fuel system fault, potentially caused by incorrect software values for the fuel pump.



Is the Lexus NX 350 a 4-cylinder?


NX 350h (FWD/AWD): Horsepower and Hybrid Electric
The NX 350h brings power and fuel economy improvements, pairing the D4-S fuel injection 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder gasoline engine with up to two high-torque electric drive motor-generators for strong acceleration and passing performance.


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Kevin Bennett

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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.