The Lexus NX has always been the model that bridges the gap between compact practicality and midsize luxury in the SUV market. For Australian buyers, the new 2025 Lexus NX builds on that reputation with refined hybrid technology, contemporary styling, and a suite of advanced features that make it a serious contender against rivals like the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Volvo XC60.
This in-depth review explores the design, hybrid performance, technology, interior comfort, safety systems, pricing, and ownership experience of the Lexus NX in Australia, giving buyers a clear picture of whether this SUV fits their needs.
Design & Styling: Bold Lexus Identity
The 2025 NX continues Lexus’ design philosophy of sharp, distinctive lines mixed with fluid proportions. The signature spindle grille is refined rather than overbearing, framed by slimmer LED headlights and a more athletic bumper design.
From the side profile, the NX balances coupe-like flow with upright SUV practicality. Its slightly stretched wheelbase compared to earlier generations allows for a stronger road presence and better cabin space. At the rear, a full-width LED light bar spans the boot lid with the LEXUS wordmark—a modern luxury touch Australians have come to expect.
Key exterior highlights include:
- 20-inch alloy wheel options with a sportier stance.
- Adaptive LED headlights with cornering function.
- Distinctive paint finishes like Sonic Chrome and Heat Blue Contrast.
- Hands-free tailgate for convenience.
For Australian buyers, this design strikes the right balance: it’s upscale enough for city professionals while rugged enough to look at home on coastal drives and regional highways.
Hybrid Powertrains: Efficiency Meets Smooth Luxury
At the heart of the Lexus NX 2025 story is its hybrid technology, which caters perfectly to Australia’s growing interest in eco-friendly luxury vehicles.
Engine Options in Australia
- NX 350h Hybrid: A 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine paired with electric motors. Available in both FWD and AWD.
- NX 450h+ Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): A more powerful variant with greater electric-only range, designed for those who want both performance and eco-driving.
Efficiency & Driving Dynamics
The NX 350h achieves fuel efficiency figures as low as 5.0L/100km, making it one of the most frugal luxury SUVs in Australia. The plug-in hybrid 450h+ can run up to 60km on pure electric power, which is perfect for city commutes without petrol usage.
Performance is not sacrificed:
- Smooth acceleration from the electric motors.
- AWD variants add confidence on wet or unsealed roads.
- Lexus’ attention to noise insulation makes the hybrid system whisper-quiet, enhancing the sense of luxury.
On Australian highways, the hybrid NX is built for long-distance cruising—stable, efficient, and comfortable. It’s an SUV that feels equally at home weaving through Sydney’s traffic as it does gliding down the Great Ocean Road.
Interior Comfort & Space
Step inside the Lexus NX 2025, and you’re met with an interior that blends modern Japanese craftsmanship with cutting-edge tech.
Cabin Design
- Driver-focused cockpit: A wraparound dash design puts controls within easy reach.
- Premium materials: Leather upholstery, soft-touch trims, and real wood or aluminium inlays depending on trim.
- Ambient lighting: Customisable colours allow drivers to set the mood for night drives.
Seating & Practicality
The NX comfortably seats five adults, with front seats offering power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. Rear passengers get improved legroom compared to the older generation, along with reclining seatbacks.
Cargo capacity sits at around 520 litres, expanding when the rear seats fold flat. It’s enough for family holidays, golf weekends, or camping trips—key considerations for Australian buyers who need versatility.
Technology & Infotainment
Technology is where the NX shines in 2025. Lexus has listened to customer feedback and moved away from the fiddly touchpad controls of older models.
Infotainment System
- 14-inch touchscreen (standard on higher trims) with crisp graphics.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Built-in navigation optimised for Australian maps and traffic.
- Voice assistant that recognises natural speech for hands-free operation.
Other Tech Features
- Wireless charging pad for smartphones.
- 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system.
- Digital rear-view mirror for improved visibility.
- Over-the-air software updates to keep features fresh.
For Australians who demand seamless tech integration, the NX delivers an experience on par with German rivals—yet arguably more intuitive.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Lexus has always prioritised safety, and the NX is packed with advanced features under the Lexus Safety System+ banner.
Standard features across the range include:
- Pre-collision safety system with pedestrian detection.
- Lane tracing assist with lane departure alert.
- Adaptive cruise control (perfect for long highway stretches).
- Road sign recognition.
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.
The NX has achieved 5-star ANCAP safety ratings, a must for Australian families seeking peace of mind.
Lexus NX 2025 vs Rivals
The mid-size luxury SUV segment is highly competitive in Australia. Here’s how the NX stacks up:
- BMW X3: More dynamic handling but less fuel-efficient than the NX hybrid.
- Audi Q5: Tech-savvy interior but lacks the Lexus hybrid’s economy.
- Volvo XC60 Recharge: Strong hybrid option but higher entry price in Australia.
- Mercedes-Benz GLC: Prestige badge appeal, though running costs are higher.
The NX offers a balance—Japanese reliability, lower fuel bills, and a luxury feel at a price point that undercuts some German rivals.
Ownership, Warranty & Running Costs
For Australian buyers, ownership confidence is critical. Lexus delivers:
- 5-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty.
- 10-year battery warranty for hybrid and plug-in models.
- Complimentary servicing for 3 years/60,000km—a major advantage over European competitors.
Insurance premiums for luxury hybrids can be higher, but Lexus’ reputation for reliability helps offset this with lower long-term repair risks compared to some European brands.
Driving Experience in Australia
On city streets, the NX feels agile despite its size, thanks to electric motor torque and light steering. The suspension absorbs speed bumps and potholes effortlessly.
On highways, adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist reduce fatigue, while the hybrid system keeps fuel costs low—an important factor given rising petrol prices in Australia.
For occasional gravel roads or rural drives, the AWD hybrid variants offer confidence, though this is not an off-road SUV in the vein of a Land Rover or Toyota Prado.
Pricing & Trims in Australia
Australian pricing for the 2025 Lexus NX is expected to start around $68,000 AUD drive-away for the NX 350h and climb to over $90,000 AUD for the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid with top equipment.
Trim levels include:
- NX 350h Luxury – well-equipped base model.
- NX 350h Sports Luxury – upgraded interior finishes and more tech.
- NX 450h+ F Sport – sporty design cues and the most powerful hybrid system.
This positions the NX as accessible compared to German rivals, with better standard features.
Is the Lexus NX 2025 Right for You?
For Australians seeking a luxury SUV that blends efficiency, comfort, and reliability, the NX hybrid range is a smart choice. It’s not the cheapest SUV, nor the sportiest, but it strikes a balance:
- Perfect for professionals who value eco-friendly credentials.
- Great for families wanting space and safety.
- Ideal for drivers who prioritise technology and reliability over outright prestige.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Lexus NX cements its place as one of the most compelling mid-size luxury SUVs in Australia. Its hybrid technology addresses rising fuel costs, its cabin oozes premium craftsmanship, and its safety features provide peace of mind. For many Australians, it offers the sweet spot between luxury indulgence and everyday practicality.
If you’re exploring luxury SUVs this year, the Lexus NX deserves a top spot on your shortlist.
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