What kind of engine does a Lexus NX have?
The Lexus NX lineup primarily uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine as the base, with hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants augmenting or replacing the gasoline powerplant. In some markets, a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine is available for higher performance.
Powerplant options in North America
The following describes the primary engine choices you’ll find in the US and Canada for the current NX lineup.
NX 250 — 2.5-liter inline-four gasoline engine paired with an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT); available in front- or all-wheel drive; typical output sits around 200–205 horsepower.
NX 350h — Hybrid system combining a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle inline-four with electric motors; total system output generally listed near 239 horsepower, with a seamless switch between gas and electric propulsion.
NX 450h+ — Plug-in hybrid that combines the 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with a larger battery and electric motors; total system output around 300+ horsepower, and an electric-only range in the tens of miles (EPA-rated roughly mid-to-upper 30s miles depending on conditions).
In practice, North American NX models emphasize electrified powertrains for efficiency, while maintaining a gasoline core in the NX 250 baseline and two electrified variants for extended driving in everyday use.
Global engine options
Outside North America, Lexus offers a broader mix, including a turbocharged gasoline option in some markets, along with the hybrid and plug-in hybrid setups.
NX 250 — 2.5-liter inline-four gasoline engine (local tuning may vary); typically mated to an eCVT or conventional automatic transmission depending on market.
NX 350 — Turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four engine available in several regions; higher power output and sportier characteristics, usually with AWD options.
NX 350h — Hybrid system with a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine and electric motors; total system output around 239 horsepower.
NX 450h+ — Plug-in hybrid variant with the 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine and a larger battery; electric range similar to the other markets’ PHEV versions, with a total system output around 300+ horsepower.
Across most regions, the NX engine family centers on a 2.5-liter four-cylinder base with electrified variants, and a turbocharged option where market regulations and demand permit.
Performance and ownership considerations
Choosing among these powertrains affects daily driving, fuel economy, and whether you’ll need access to charging for the plug-in options. Hybrids prioritize efficiency and smooth operation, while the turbocharged version delivers stronger acceleration. The plug-in hybrid adds an electric-only range for shorter commutes, with the gas engine providing support for longer trips.
Summary
The Lexus NX offers a versatile engine lineup centered on a 2.5-liter four-cylinder base, with hybrid (NX 350h) and plug-in hybrid (NX 450h+) variants in most markets. A turbocharged 2.4-liter engine (NX 350) is available in several regions for higher performance. Engine availability and specifications vary by model year and region, but the core approach remains: gasoline power as the base, topped by electrified options and, in select markets, a turbocharged alternative.
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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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.
What engine does the Lexus NX have?
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.
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.
