What is the difference between nx250 and nx350?
The NX350 is the more powerful, turbocharged option, delivering quicker acceleration and stronger highway confidence, while the NX250 serves as the efficient, entry-level counterpart with a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine. Both models share the same compact SUV platform and many interior features, but they target different buyers in terms of power, refinement, and price.
In this article, we compare the two models across powertrains, performance, efficiency, equipment, and pricing to help potential buyers decide which NX fits their needs.
Powertrain differences
Here are the core mechanical differences between the NX250 and NX350 in concise terms:
In short, the NX350 delivers notably stronger acceleration and more torque thanks to the turbocharged setup, while the NX250 prioritizes efficiency and lower initial cost.
Performance and efficiency
Performance and efficiency concerns differ mainly in how the powertrains respond, how they behave on highways, and how fuel economy is balanced with power. The turbocharged NX350 is typically quicker off the line and offers stronger reserve for passing and steep grades, especially when equipped with all-wheel drive. The NX250, with its naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine, aims for smooth, consistent power delivery and tends to edge ahead in everyday efficiency when driven conservatively.
Real-world driving can vary with wheel size, trim level, and drivetrain choice. Factors such as the use of all-wheel drive, tire type, and driving style will influence mpg figures and perceived performance for each model.
Equipment, trims, and pricing considerations
The two models also diverge in the standard equipment and the expected price range, with the NX350 generally positioned as the more feature-rich and premium option at a higher starting price. Availability of certain features can vary by market and model year, but the NX350 typically includes more powerful performance-oriented hardware and may come with more standard or optional premium features on lower trims.
The NX350 carries a higher starting price than the NX250, reflecting its turbocharged power and enhanced performance potential. Exact pricing varies by market and selected options. The NX350 line often bundles more convenience and tech features on base trims, with additional upgrades available in mid- and upper-level trims. The NX250 tends to offer fewer standard premium features at baseline but can be well equipped with options. Availability of drivetrain choices (FWD vs AWD), infotainment packages, and safety tech can shift between model years and regions, so checking current local specifications is advised.
In practice, the NX250 is typically the better value if upfront cost and ongoing efficiency are priorities, while the NX350 targets buyers who want stronger performance and a more premium feel from the base configuration.
Which NX should you buy?
Your choice depends on how you intend to use the vehicle. If you primarily drive in the city, commute, and value efficiency with a lower starting price, the NX250 is a solid, economical pick. If you want more confident acceleration for highway merging, overtaking, and a sportier driving experience, the NX350 is the stronger option, especially when you anticipate frequent use of all-wheel drive for rough weather or challenging road conditions.
Note on hybrid options
For buyers who want a middle ground—more efficiency without sacrificing too much power—the NX350h (the hybrid variant) blends a 2.5-liter engine with electric motors to deliver a balanced mix of refinement and better fuel economy. It sits alongside the NX250 and NX350 in Lexus’s NX lineup, offering another path depending on your priorities.
Summary
In short, the NX350 is the performance-oriented choice with a turbocharged engine and more torque, delivering quicker responses and stronger highway capability. The NX250 remains the efficient, budget-conscious option with a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine and lower baseline pricing. Both share the same platform and many interior features, but your decision should hinge on how much you value power versus price and efficiency. For those who want a premium hybrid balance, the NX350h provides another viable path.
What is the difference between Lexus NX 250 and 350?
Appearance. Sporting 18-inch, five-spoke alloy wheels with Dark Gray accents, the 2024 NX 250 contrasts with the NX 350, which offers an optional package featuring 20-inch, 20-spoke alloy wheels. Additionally, the NX 350 showcases premium triple-beam LED headlamps.
What is the difference between Lexus 250 and 350?
The main differences between a Lexus 250 and a 350 are engine power and, in some models, drivetrain. The 350 models have more powerful engines (like a 3.5L V6) that offer stronger acceleration, while the 250 models use smaller, more fuel-efficient engines (like a 2.5L 4-cylinder). For example, the ES 350 has a 302-horsepower V6, while the ES 250 has a 203-horsepower 4-cylinder. Similarly, the NX 350 has a 275-horsepower engine, compared to the NX 250's 203 horsepower.
This video compares the engines of Lexus IS 250 and 350, highlighting the difference in horsepower and acceleration: 56sMarty MotoringYouTube · Nov 13, 2018
| Feature | Lexus 250 | Lexus 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Smaller, more fuel-efficient engine (e.g., 2.5L 4-cylinder) | Larger, more powerful engine (e.g., 3.5L V6) |
| Horsepower | Lower (e.g., 203 hp in NX and ES models) | Higher (e.g., 275 hp in NX and 302 hp in ES) |
| Drivetrain | Often front-wheel drive (FWD) standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) as an option or in specific trims. The NX 250 is not standard with all-wheel drive. | Can be FWD or AWD, depending on the model. For example, the NX 350 comes standard with all-wheel drive. |
| Performance | Good for daily driving; less focus on acceleration | Stronger acceleration and passing power |
| Customization | Fewer options for customization compared to 350 models | More opportunities for customization |
(this||self).Wufxzb=function(c,e,f,l,k){var d=document.getElementById(c);if(d&&(d.offsetWidth!==0||d.offsetHeight!==0)){c=d.querySelector("div");var g=c.scrollWidth-c.offsetWidth,h=Math.min(e?g:0,g);c.scrollLeft=e&&(l||f)?0:h;var a=d.getElementsByTagName("g-left-button")[0],b=d.getElementsByTagName("g-right-button")[0];a&&b&&(e=RegExp("\\btHT0l\\b"),f=RegExp("\\bpQXcHc\\b"),a.className=a.className.replace(e,""),b.className=b.className.replace(e,""),h===0?a.className="pQXcHc "+a.className:(a.className=
a.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("pA30Ne")),h===g?b.className="pQXcHc "+b.className:(b.className=b.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("FpCCub")),setTimeout(function(){a.className+=" tHT0l";b.className+=" tHT0l"},50))}};}).call(this);(function(){var id='_6dMlabWFLsezi-gP97y0oQ4_246';var rtl=false;var gecko=false;var edge=false;var soh=false;
(this||self).Wufxzb(id,rtl,gecko,edge,soh);})();
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
How much bigger is NX 350 than 250?
The Lexus NX 250 vs. NX 350 Packages You Can Add
| Specification | 2025 Lexus NX 250 | 2025 Lexus NX 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Sizes | 18-in | 18 / 20-in |
| Passenger Seating | 5 | 5 |
| Exterior Length / Width / Height | 183.5 / 73.4 / 65.4 in | 183.5 / 73.4 / 65.4 in |
| Max Front Headroom / Legroom | 38.3 / 41 in | 38.3 / 41 in |
