What engine is in the Lexus NX 300h?
The NX 300h uses a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder petrol engine paired with electric motors to form Lexus Hybrid Drive, delivering a combined output of roughly 197 horsepower.
In this article, we explore the engine and hybrid system that power the NX 300h, how the components work together, and what that means for performance and efficiency. The NX 300h represents Lexus’ approach to combining conventional gasoline propulsion with electric assistance in a compact luxury SUV, emphasizing smoothness and fuel economy.
Engine and hybrid system
The core of the NX 300h’s powertrain is a conventional gasoline engine joined by an electric propulsion system. Here are the key elements you should know:
Key components and specifications of the NX 300h's hybrid powertrain are:
- Engine: 2.5-liter inline-four gasoline engine that uses the Atkinson cycle to maximise efficiency.
- Hybrid system: Lexus Hybrid Drive, pairing the petrol engine with electric motors to drive the wheels and to generate electricity.
- Electric motors: One motor assists propulsion, with a second motor functioning as a generator; together they manage energy flow and battery charging.
- Transmission: Electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) that coordinates power from engine and motors.
- System output: Combined output is approximately 197 horsepower (about 147 kW).
- Drivetrain: Available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations depending on model year and market.
In practice, the engine and electric motors work together to provide smooth acceleration, with the electric motors often taking on low-speed propulsion and the gasoline engine maintaining efficiency at higher speeds. The CVT ensures seamless power delivery across the speed range.
Performance and efficiency context
Because the NX 300h is designed as a hybrid, the emphasis is on efficiency and refined, quiet operation rather than raw horsepower. Fuel economy and performance depend on driving style, conditions, and battery state of charge. Market-specific specs can vary, so check the official brochure or dealership data for your region.
Summary
The NX 300h combines a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with electric propulsion to deliver about 197 horsepower total, via a CVT and an available AWD option. This setup prioritizes smooth, economical driving and refined luxury in a compact hybrid SUV.
What are common NX 300h problems?
Faulty sensors. Weak or imbalanced battery cells. Inverter or ECU issues.
What engine does the Lexus NX 300h have?
2.5-liter 2AR-FXE engine
The NX 300h is powered by a 2.5-liter 2AR-FXE engine mated to an electric motor and CVT that puts out a combined power output of 145 kW (194 hp; 197 PS).
Is the Lexus NX engine the same as the RAV4?
Both the RAV4 and the NX 350h use a version of Toyota's well-known hybrid system, which is based around a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Output numbers differ, however, with the Toyota generating a system total of 219 horsepower and the Lexus outdoing it by 21 hp, for a total of 240 horsepower.
What are the NX 300's common problems?
The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.
- Brakes.
- Noises/Leaks.
- Engine Major.
- Climate System.
- Electrical Accessories.
- In-car Electronics.
- Drive System.
- Suspension/Steering.
