Who are the competitors of the Lexus NX 2020?

The main competitors for the 2020 Lexus NX are compact luxury SUVs from premium brands, including the BMW X3, Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Volvo XC60, Acura RDX, and Infiniti QX50.

In this article, we examine how the NX stacks up against these rivals in terms of pricing, features, interior quality, performance options, and overall value, and identify other notable contenders that shoppers in this segment often consider.

Direct rivals in the compact luxury SUV segment

The following vehicles were widely regarded as the NX’s core competitors for the 2020 model year, offering similar size, powertrains, and luxury features.

• BMW X3


• Audi Q5


• Mercedes-Benz GLC


• Volvo XC60


• Acura RDX


• Infiniti QX50

These models represented the primary battleground for the NX in 2020, balancing price, performance, interior quality, and technology in ways that appealed to premium-SUV shoppers.

Other notable contenders

Beyond the core group, several additional premium crossovers were commonly evaluated by buyers in this class, offering their own blends of sportiness, luxury, and practicality.

• Jaguar F-Pace


• Cadillac XT5


• Lincoln Corsair


• Porsche Macan

These alternatives varied more in emphasis—some prioritized sportiness or distinctive styling, while others focused on interior spaciousness or brand prestige—yet they remained in the same general competition tier as the NX.

Market positioning and differentiators

Performance and efficiency

In 2020, the NX offered a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the NX 300, with all-wheel drive available. While rivals like the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Volvo XC60 offered similarly efficient powertrains, several competitors also offered higher-performance options (for example, models with more powerful engines or sportier tuning). The NX emphasized efficiency and urban usability within its class, rather than outright performance bragging rights.

Interior, technology, and value

Inside, the NX highlighted Lexus’ traditional strengths: high-quality materials, a well-built interior, and a user-friendly, if sometimes conservative, infotainment setup. Some rivals bundled more aggressive technology or larger rear-seat space, and certain brands priced aggressively to attract buyers on a value proposition. For 2020 shoppers, the NX tended to appeal to those prioritizing reliability, refined cabin quality, and a compelling overall value package.

Summary

For the 2020 Lexus NX, the competitive landscape centered on a core group of premium compact SUVs—the BMW X3, Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Volvo XC60, Acura RDX, and Infiniti QX50—alongside additional contenders such as the Jaguar F‑Pace, Cadillac XT5, Lincoln Corsair, and Porsche Macan. Buyers weighed factors like ride comfort, interior quality, tech amenities, and overall value, with the NX offering a strong combination of efficiency, Lexus reliability, and urban practicality within a crowded field.

Is the Lexus NX better than the Acura RDX?

The main differences are performance and powertrain, with the Acura RDX offering a sportier, more engaging drive, while the Lexus NX provides hybrid options for better fuel efficiency and a more luxurious, comfortable ride. The RDX also has more cargo space, while the NX is known for its advanced technology and reliability. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize a sporty driving experience (RDX) or hybrid fuel economy and a quiet ride (NX).
 
This video provides an overview of the Acura RDX and Lexus NX: 1mCar Help CornerYouTube · Mar 24, 2021
Acura RDX

• Performance: Sportier handling, better steering feedback, and a more dynamic driving experience. 
• Cargo Space: More spacious and offers more cargo capacity. 
• Price/Value: Can be cheaper and often includes more features for the money compared to the gasoline-powered NX. 
• Engine: Only comes with a gasoline engine, not a hybrid option. 

This video compares the performance of the Acura RDX and Lexus NX: 48sCar Help CornerYouTube · Mar 23, 2022
Lexus NX

• Performance: Smoother and more refined, but not as sporty as the RDX. 
• Powertrain: Offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid options for better fuel economy. 
• Technology: Focuses on a touchscreen-centric technology experience. 
• Reliability: Known for strong long-term reliability and resale value. 

This video discusses the features and options of the Lexus NX and Acura RDX: 44sAutomotivePressYouTube · Jun 27, 2024
Which one should you choose?

• Choose the Acura RDX if:
  • You want a more fun-to-drive SUV with better performance. 
  • You need maximum cargo space. 
• Choose the Lexus NX if:
  • You prioritize fuel efficiency and want a hybrid powertrain. 
  • You prefer a quieter, more luxurious, and technologically focused interior. 

Which is better quality, Mercedes or Lexus?

Lexus remains an outstanding choice when it comes to dependability with a score of 135 PP100. This is a full 55 problems per 100 vehicles lower than the industry average of 190 PP100. Compared to the Mercedes-Benz score of 218 PP100, Lexus is the clear winner in terms of dependability.

What is comparable to the Lexus NX?

Alternatives to the Lexus NX include luxury rivals like the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Acura RDX, and more budget-friendly options such as the Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V. The best choice depends on your priorities, whether it's premium features, performance, or affordability.
 
This video compares the Lexus NX and Audi Q5: 59sRealistickYouTube · Feb 2, 2024
Luxury alternatives

• Audi Q5: A strong competitor known for its sophisticated and conservative design. 
• BMW X3: Offers a luxurious interior and powerful engine options. 
• Acura RDX: Often praised for its sporty feel, strong performance, and ample cargo and passenger space. 
• Mercedes-Benz GLC: A direct competitor in the compact luxury SUV segment. 
• Genesis GV70: A stylish and well-regarded luxury crossover. 
• Volvo XC40: Features a charming design and a good lineup of powertrains, including a powerful EV version. 

Value-oriented and non-luxury alternatives

• Mazda CX-50: A more affordable alternative that offers comparable amenities and a comfortable ride. 
• Toyota RAV4: The Lexus NX is built on a similar platform to the RAV4 and uses many of the same hybrid components, making it a very close, more budget-friendly option. 
• Honda CR-V: A practical and spacious alternative, offering more passenger and cargo room than the NX. 
• Buick Envision: A reliable and well-equipped option that scores highly in reliability ratings. 
• Infiniti QX50: A contender with clean lines and reasonable pricing, though it may be less engaging to drive than some rivals. 

You can watch this video to learn about the differences between the Toyota RAV4 and Lexus NX: 54sCarLandTVYouTube · Nov 8, 2025

Is the Lexus NX just a RAV4?

No, the Lexus NX is not just a RAV4; it is a more luxurious and refined compact SUV that shares a platform with the Toyota RAV4 but differentiates itself with premium materials, different engine options, more advanced technology, and a higher price point. While both are built on the same TNGA-K platform, the NX offers a more upscale experience and performance variations. 
Key differences 
This video highlights the differences in size and cargo space between the Lexus NX and Toyota RAV4: 54sJosh on CarsYouTube · Apr 9, 2023

Feature	Lexus NX	Toyota RAV4
Design and Interior	Focuses on luxury with premium materials, a more upscale interior design, and a sportier, coupe-like exterior.	Emphasizes practicality and utility with a more traditional, boxy SUV design.
Powertrain	Offers more engine options, including turbocharged and plug-in hybrid variants, with higher horsepower outputs on some models.	Provides fewer engine options but includes a very popular hybrid powertrain.
Technology	Features more premium technology, such as larger touchscreens, available head-up displays, and more advanced safety systems on some trims.	Offers capable and practical technology, with features like a 10.5-inch touchscreen standard on many models.
Price and Value	Has a higher starting price, requires premium fuel, and comes with a higher cost of ownership.	Is more budget-friendly and a better value, with lower depreciation and better fuel efficiency.
Space	Generally has less cargo space and a tighter rear seat compared to the RAV4 due to its sportier design.	Offers more cargo space and a more spacious interior due to its taller and more utilitarian design.

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