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What Toyota is the Lexus NX comparable to?

The Lexus NX is a compact luxury crossover SUV that is often compared to various Toyota models. While the NX is part of the Lexus brand, which is Toyota's luxury division, it shares many similarities with certain Toyota vehicles. In this article, we'll explore which Toyota model the Lexus NX is most comparable to.

The Lexus NX: An Overview

The Lexus NX was first introduced in 2014 as a 2015 model year vehicle. It is positioned as a smaller and more affordable alternative to the larger Lexus RX SUV. The NX is available in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, and it offers a range of powertrain options, including turbocharged and hybrid variants.

The Toyota RAV4: A Comparable Model

When it comes to finding a Toyota model that is comparable to the Lexus NX, the Toyota RAV4 is the most logical choice. The RAV4 is a compact SUV that shares many of the same design and engineering principles as the Lexus NX.

Both the NX and the RAV4 are built on the same underlying platform, which means they share a similar chassis and suspension setup.

The NX and the RAV4 also offer similar powertrain options, including turbocharged and hybrid variants.

In terms of size and interior space, the NX and the RAV4 are quite comparable, with the NX being slightly larger and more premium-oriented.

While the Lexus NX is a more luxurious and feature-rich version of the Toyota RAV4, the two vehicles are closely related and share a significant amount of DNA.

Conclusion

In summary, the Toyota RAV4 is the model that is most comparable to the Lexus NX. Both vehicles share a similar platform, powertrain options, and overall size and design, with the NX offering a more premium and luxurious take on the compact SUV formula. For those looking for a Toyota-based compact SUV with a more upscale feel, the Lexus NX is a natural choice.

Is NX better than RAV4?

The Lexus NX prioritizes luxury, comfort, and performance, while the Toyota RAV4 focuses on value, practicality, and space. Both SUVs share a platform, but the NX offers more powerful engine options (including a turbo), a more upscale interior with premium materials, and a more refined ride. The RAV4 provides a more spacious cabin and cargo area, is more affordable, and generally has lower ownership costs.
This video compares the Lexus NX and Toyota RAV4, highlighting their key differences and similarities: 56sPerformance LexusYouTube · May 4, 2024
Lexus NX

Luxury and performance: Features a more upscale interior with premium materials like NuLuxe synthetic leather and has available, more powerful engine options, including a turbocharged engine and a plug-in hybrid.
Driving experience: Offers a smoother, quieter, and more refined ride.
Technology: Includes a larger standard touchscreen, a more advanced infotainment system, and premium audio options.
Price: Has a higher starting price and requires premium fuel.

Toyota RAV4

Value and practicality: Is the more affordable option with a lower cost of ownership and better value for the money.
Space: Provides a more spacious and utilitarian interior with significantly more cargo room.
Efficiency: Generally offers better fuel economy.
Reliability: Comes with a reputation for Toyota reliability and offers a longer period of free maintenance.

Which one should you choose?

Choose the Lexus NX if: You are looking for a more luxurious and comfortable experience with a focus on performance and technology, and you are willing to pay a premium for it.
Choose the Toyota RAV4 if: Your priority is value, practicality, and maximizing interior and cargo space for a lower price and cost of ownership.

This video explains which SUV is a better choice based on your priorities: 1mAutoMobiYouTube · Jun 10, 2025

What Toyota platform is the Lexus NX built on?

GA-K platform
Toyota's luxury arm is Lexus, and the Lexus NX is built on the same GA-K platform as the Toyota RAV4, which overtook the Ford F-150 as the best-selling vehicle in the United States in 2024. The Toyota GA-K platform is also used on vehicles ranging from the Camry sedan to the Highlander unibody SUV and Sienna minivan.

What is the Toyota version of Lexus NX?

Toyota RAV4 vs.
Let's start with the standard engine. Where the Toyota RAV4 LE FWD provides 226 horsepower, the Lexus NX 350 starts with a whopping 275 horsepower. The RAV4 can only reach 236 horsepower with AWD, a figure the NX can outpace with its 240-horsepower hybrid configuration.

Is the Lexus NX just a RAV4?

No, the Lexus NX and Toyota RAV4 are not the same, but they share the same platform, meaning they have a lot of underlying similarities in size and components. The main differences are that the Lexus NX is a more luxurious and refined vehicle with premium materials, additional features, and a higher starting price, while the RAV4 is a more budget-friendly and practical option that prioritizes value and cargo space.

This video compares the Lexus NX and Toyota RAV4, highlighting their similarities and differences: 57sShifting LanesYouTube · Jan 21, 2025
Lexus NX

Luxury: Offers more premium materials like NuLuxe or leather, a more upscale interior design, and a quieter cabin.
Features: Comes standard with more technology and comfort features, such as a premium sound system and auto-dimming mirrors.
Performance: Features a more powerful turbocharged engine option and offers a wider range of powertrain options, including a plug-in hybrid (PHEV).
Price: Is significantly more expensive than the RAV4, with a higher starting price.

Toyota RAV4

Value: Is the more budget-friendly choice, offering excellent value for money.
Practicality: Provides more cargo space and a more rugged design that is better suited for a wider range of driving conditions.
Performance: Has a less powerful engine than the NX's turbocharged option, though it is still capable for daily driving.
Fuel Efficiency: The RAV4 Hybrid option is known for its impressive fuel economy.

This video discusses the 2026 Toyota RAV4 and Lexus NX: 1mAutoMobiYouTube · Jun 10, 2025
Which one should you choose?

Choose the Lexus NX if you prioritize a luxurious interior, premium features, and a more powerful and refined driving experience and are willing to pay a higher price.
Choose the Toyota RAV4 if you are looking for a practical and reliable SUV that offers great value, ample cargo space, and good fuel economy, especially if you opt for the hybrid model.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.