What engine is in the Lexus nx250?
The Lexus NX250 is a compact luxury crossover SUV that offers a smooth and efficient driving experience. At the heart of this vehicle is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers impressive performance and fuel economy.
Engine Specifications
The Lexus NX250 is powered by a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine that produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that provides seamless gear changes and helps optimize fuel efficiency.
The engine features direct fuel injection and dual variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which helps to improve both power and efficiency. The NX250 also comes standard with front-wheel drive, though all-wheel drive is available as an option.
Fuel Economy and Performance
With its efficient 2.5-liter engine, the Lexus NX250 achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway in its front-wheel-drive configuration. The all-wheel-drive model has a slightly lower rating of 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.
In terms of performance, the NX250 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 8.6 seconds, which is respectable for a compact luxury SUV. The engine provides ample power for daily driving, with a smooth and responsive feel that is characteristic of Lexus vehicles.
Conclusion
The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine in the Lexus NX250 is a well-engineered and efficient powertrain that delivers a balance of performance and fuel economy. Its combination of direct injection, variable valve timing, and a smooth-shifting automatic transmission make it a compelling choice in the compact luxury SUV segment.
Is Lexus discontinuing the NX 250?
Yes, the Lexus NX 250 was discontinued for the 2026 model year, with Lexus shifting its lineup to focus more on hybrids. The new entry-level model is the NX 350, which features a turbocharged engine and standard all-wheel drive. The previous entry-level gas engine option has been replaced by the hybrid NX 350h, which is now available with a front-wheel-drive option.
This video explains why Lexus discontinued the NX 250: 1mLSFTYouTube · Jun 10, 2025
- Discontinuation: The non-hybrid NX 250, previously the base model, has been eliminated from the lineup.
- New entry-level model: The NX 350 is now the base gas-powered model, equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive.
- Shift to hybrids: Lexus is increasing its focus on its hybrid offerings, with the NX 350h (hybrid) and NX 450h+ (plug-in hybrid) becoming more prominent in the lineup.
- New hybrid option: The NX 350h is now available with front-wheel drive, making it a new and more accessible entry point for the hybrid lineup.
You can watch this video to learn about the new features of the 2026 Lexus NX: 59sLSFTYouTube · Jul 26, 2025
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 engine does the Lexus Nx 250 have?
There's also a significant horsepower difference: the NX 250 is powered by a 2.5L engine with 203 horsepower, while the NX 350 AWD features a more robust 275-horsepower 2.4L engine.
Which is better, Lexus NX 250 or 350?
The main difference is performance: the NX 250 uses a naturally aspirated 2.5L engine with 203 horsepower, while the NX 350 features a more powerful turbocharged 2.4L engine with 275 horsepower. The NX 350 also comes standard with all-wheel drive, whereas the base NX 250 is front-wheel drive, and the 350 generally offers more luxury options and features.
| Feature | NX 250 | NX 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder | 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 203 hp | 275 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 317 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | Standard front-wheel drive (AWD is optional) | Standard all-wheel drive |
| Fuel | Regular gasoline | Premium gasoline |
| Performance | More fuel-efficient, less powerful | More powerful, quicker acceleration |
| Features | Standard luxury features, but fewer upgrade options | More premium standard and optional features, such as upgraded interior materials and lighting |
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