What is the difference between Lexus NX 300 and NX 300h?

The Lexus NX is a popular luxury compact SUV that comes in two main variants: the NX 300 and the NX 300h. While these two models share many similarities, there are some key differences that set them apart. In this article, we'll explore the main distinctions between the Lexus NX 300 and NX 300h to help you determine which one best suits your needs.

Powertrain and Fuel Efficiency

The primary difference between the Lexus NX 300 and NX 300h lies in their powertrain configurations. The NX 300 is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and is available in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations.

In contrast, the Lexus NX 300h is a hybrid model that combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor. This hybrid system produces a total of 194 horsepower and is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The NX 300h is available exclusively with all-wheel-drive.

The key difference in fuel efficiency is that the NX 300h is significantly more fuel-efficient than the NX 300. The NX 300h is rated at an impressive 33 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, while the NX 300 achieves 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

The Lexus NX 300 offers a more powerful and responsive driving experience compared to the NX 300h. The turbocharged engine in the NX 300 provides quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving feel, especially at higher speeds.

On the other hand, the NX 300h prioritizes efficiency and smooth, quiet operation. The hybrid system in the NX 300h provides a more relaxed and serene driving experience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic where the electric motor can operate in pure electric mode.

Pricing and Availability

Due to the additional hybrid technology, the Lexus NX 300h typically carries a higher starting price than the NX 300. The NX 300 has a base MSRP of around $38,000, while the NX 300h starts at around $41,000.

Both the NX 300 and NX 300h are widely available at Lexus dealerships, but the NX 300h may be slightly more limited in certain regions due to its specialized hybrid powertrain.

Key Takeaways

• Powertrain: The NX 300 has a turbocharged gasoline engine, while the NX 300h is a hybrid with a gasoline engine and electric motor.


• Fuel Efficiency: The NX 300h is significantly more fuel-efficient, with an EPA-estimated 33 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.


• Performance: The NX 300 offers more power and a more engaging driving experience, while the NX 300h prioritizes efficiency and smooth operation.


• Pricing: The NX 300h typically carries a higher starting price due to its hybrid technology.

In summary, the Lexus NX 300 and NX 300h cater to different preferences and needs. The NX 300 is the better choice for those who prioritize performance and a more dynamic driving experience, while the NX 300h is the more fuel-efficient and environmentally-friendly option. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your personal driving requirements and preferences.

What is the difference between Lexus NX 300 and NX 300h?

The differentiating feature of the Lexus NX 300h is its hybrid powertrain. While the Lexus NX 300 uses a turbocharged gasoline engine with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, the NX 300h uses a potent four-cylinder engine paired with electric motors and intelligent all-wheel drive.

Is the Lexus NX 300 discontinued?

Yes, the Lexus NX 300 has been discontinued. It was replaced by the redesigned 2022 Lexus NX lineup, which includes new models like the NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. 
You can watch this video to learn about the redesign of the Lexus NX: 1mLSFTYouTube · Jun 10, 2025

• The NX 300 was discontinued after the 2021 model year.
• Lexus redesigned the NX for the 2022 model year, introducing new trims and dropping the NX 300 from the lineup.
• The new models include the NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. 

What is the difference between Lexus NX and NX hybrid?

The main difference between the Lexus NX and the NX Hybrid is their powertrain: the standard NX uses a traditional gasoline engine, while the NX Hybrid combines a gasoline engine with electric motors for better fuel efficiency. This difference results in the NX Hybrid offering significantly higher MPG, while the standard NX models provide a more traditional driving experience and a wider range of power options, such as the turbocharged NX 350. 
This video explains the differences between the standard and hybrid Lexus NX models, focusing on their powertrains and transmissions: 41sModern MotoringYouTube · Mar 9, 2024
Performance

• Standard NX (e.g., NX 250, NX 350): The standard models offer a range of gasoline engines, including a 203-horsepower naturally aspirated engine and a 275-horsepower turbocharged engine. The NX 350, for example, has a more traditional and powerful acceleration profile with an 8-speed automatic transmission. 
• NX Hybrid (e.g., NX 350h, NX 450h+): The hybrid models use a combination of a gasoline engine and electric motors, resulting in a smoother and more responsive feel, especially at lower speeds. 
  • The NX 350h produces a combined 240 horsepower. 
  • The NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid delivers 304 horsepower and can operate on all-electric power for a certain range. 

This video discusses the performance of the Lexus NX 350h and NX 350: 54sModern MotoringYouTube · Aug 7, 2025
Fuel Efficiency

• Standard NX: Expect lower MPG compared to the hybrid, with ratings like 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway for the NX 250 and 21 mpg city / 28 mpg highway for the NX 350. 
• NX Hybrid: The hybrid versions are significantly more fuel-efficient. 
  • The NX 350h has an EPA-estimated rating of 41 mpg city / 37 mpg highway. 
  • The NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid can achieve an impressive 84 MPGe combined, with up to 37 miles of all-electric range. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the fuel efficiency of the Lexus NX 350h: 51sMotor City MaggieYouTube · Jun 26, 2025
Similarities

• Design: The standard NX and NX Hybrid share the same modern and sophisticated exterior design language. 
• Interior and Technology: Both models offer a luxurious interior, advanced technology, and safety features, such as the Lexus Interface, with standard safety systems like LSS+ 3.0. 

How to choose

• Choose the Standard NX if: You prefer a more traditional gasoline engine with a wider variety of performance options and don't prioritize maximum fuel efficiency.
• Choose the NX Hybrid if: Fuel economy is your top priority and you want to save on gas expenses. The hybrid models offer a smoother driving experience and lower emissions, with the NX 450h+ providing the additional benefit of all-electric driving. 

What are common NX 300h problems?

Faulty sensors. Weak or imbalanced battery cells. Inverter or ECU issues.