Lexus NX Review | Hybrid Luxury SUV | Specs | Price in Australia

Australia’s luxury SUV market has become fiercely competitive, with brands like BMW, Audi, Volvo, and Mercedes all vying for attention. Yet, Lexus continues to carve out a niche for itself with a blend of Japanese craftsmanship, hybrid efficiency, and understated elegance. The Lexus NX is one of the brand’s most important models, sitting in the mid-size SUV category where buyers want premium comfort, strong tech, and fuel efficiency — without stretching to the size (or price) of a full-sized SUV.

The NX is not just a facelifted update; it’s a vehicle that represents Lexus’ evolving design philosophy and hybrid leadership. With multiple trims, hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) options, and a sharp balance of luxury and practicality, the Lexus NX caters to Australian drivers who want sophistication without sacrificing economy.

This review breaks down the Lexus NX in detail: design, specs, hybrid powertrain, technology, safety, and of course, pricing in Australia. Whether you’re comparing it against German rivals or looking for a stylish yet efficient daily driver, this deep dive will help you decide if the NX deserves a spot in your garage.

Exterior Design – Bold and Distinctive

One glance at the Lexus NX and it’s clear Lexus wants to make a statement. The sharp spindle grille remains a signature design element, but it’s been refined to look more cohesive with the rest of the SUV. Slimmer LED headlights, sculpted bodywork, and an elegant rear profile with a full-width light bar give it a futuristic yet mature aesthetic.

The NX isn’t trying to be sporty in the same way a BMW X3 M Sport does, nor is it as restrained as a Volvo XC60. Instead, it strikes a balance — bold enough to stand out in traffic but refined enough to feel premium.

Wheel options range from 18-inch alloys on base models to 20-inch designs for higher trims. Paint finishes include classic Lexus metallics like Sonic Chrome and Sonic Quartz, plus more vibrant choices for buyers who want individuality.

Interior – Where Lexus Truly Shines

Inside, the Lexus NX feels every bit a luxury SUV. The cabin prioritises driver comfort, passenger space, and high-quality materials. Lexus’ Takumi craftsmanship is evident in details like stitched leather surfaces, aluminium trim, and precise switchgear.

Key highlights include:

• Driver-Centric Layout: The NX adopts a cockpit-style interior, with a digital instrument cluster and a large central infotainment screen angled toward the driver.
• Infotainment: The latest Lexus Interface system replaces the old touchpad, now offering a crisp 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and voice assistant.
• Comfort: Heated and ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, and premium Mark Levinson audio system (on higher trims) create a first-class environment.
• Space: Rear legroom has improved compared to the previous NX, making it more practical for families. The boot capacity ranges from around 520L, expanding with rear seats folded.

For Australian buyers, the cabin’s quietness is a standout feature. Lexus invests heavily in sound insulation, meaning the NX offers a more serene ride than many rivals, even on coarse Aussie bitumen roads.

Powertrain Options – Hybrid Leadership

Lexus has long been a pioneer in hybrid technology, and the NX benefits from this expertise. In Australia, buyers can choose between petrol and hybrid variants, with the plug-in hybrid NX 450h+ expected to appeal to eco-minded buyers.

• NX 250 (Petrol): A 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic. Suitable for those who prefer simplicity, but not the pick for efficiency.
• NX 350h (Hybrid): Combines a 2.5-litre engine with electric motors to deliver strong performance and fuel efficiency. Available in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.
• NX 450h+ (Plug-in Hybrid): The flagship model with a larger battery, offering up to 60–70 km of EV-only range. Perfect for short commutes without using petrol, yet still capable on longer road trips.

The hybrid NX 350h is the sweet spot for most Australian buyers. It offers fuel economy figures as low as 5.0–5.5L/100km, which is impressive for a luxury SUV in this segment.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

On the road, the Lexus NX is less about raw performance and more about comfort and refinement. The hybrid system delivers smooth acceleration, with instant torque from the electric motor making city driving effortless.

The NX 350h AWD, in particular, provides a confident driving experience thanks to its E-Four all-wheel drive system, which distributes power intelligently for better traction. Steering is light yet precise, perfect for urban use, while highway cruising feels stable and controlled.

For those wanting more excitement, the NX 350 with a turbocharged petrol engine (in some markets) offers sharper acceleration, but in Australia, Lexus emphasises hybrid practicality over sporty thrills. Compared to rivals like the BMW X3 or Audi Q5, the NX leans toward comfort rather than dynamic cornering.

Technology and Features

The Lexus NX is packed with technology that enhances both convenience and safety.

Highlights include:

• Infotainment: 9.8-inch standard screen, or optional 14-inch unit with navigation and advanced connectivity.
• Audio: Standard 10-speaker system, or 17-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound in higher trims.
• Digital Key: Some models allow smartphone-based entry and ignition.
• Head-Up Display: Projects key driving info onto the windscreen.
• Over-the-Air Updates: Keeps software fresh without dealership visits.

Australian buyers will particularly appreciate the wireless Apple CarPlay integration — although Android Auto remains wired.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety is a cornerstone of Lexus vehicles, and the NX comes equipped with Lexus Safety System+ as standard. This suite includes:

• Pre-collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection
• Lane tracing assist and lane departure alert
• Dynamic radar cruise control
• Road sign assist
• Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert

The NX has already achieved top scores in global safety tests, and given ANCAP’s alignment with international standards, buyers in Australia can expect a strong safety rating. Families will find the NX reassuring, with ISOFIX mounts and airbags throughout the cabin.

Pricing in Australia

The Lexus NX is positioned competitively against European luxury SUVs. Pricing (approximate drive-away figures in Australia) generally falls into these ranges:

• NX 250 Petrol: From around $65,000–$70,000
• NX 350h Hybrid: From $72,000–$82,000 depending on trim and AWD option
• NX 450h+ PHEV: Expected around $90,000–$100,000, placing it in line with plug-in rivals

While not cheap, the NX undercuts some German competitors while offering better standard equipment and Lexus’ reputation for long-term reliability. Running costs are also lower thanks to hybrid efficiency and capped-price servicing.

Lexus NX vs Rivals

When cross-shopping, Australian buyers will likely compare the NX to:

• BMW X3: More dynamic to drive, but more expensive and less efficient.
• Audi Q5: A well-rounded choice, though its interior feels more conventional.
• Volvo XC60: Strong safety and Scandinavian design, but not as refined as Lexus hybrids.
• Mercedes-Benz GLC: Luxurious but pricier and less fuel efficient.

The Lexus NX stands out for its balance of hybrid economy, build quality, and reliability. While it may not win every head-to-head in terms of driving thrills, it delivers peace of mind and long-term value.

Maintenance and Ownership Experience

Lexus’ ownership experience is a key part of its appeal. Buyers in Australia benefit from:

• 4-year/100,000 km warranty (with hybrid battery coverage up to 10 years if serviced through Lexus).
• Capped-price servicing, generally lower than German luxury brands.
• Lexus Encore Program, which includes benefits like service loan cars, roadside assistance, and lifestyle events.

For Australian buyers concerned about long-term costs, Lexus consistently ranks among the most reliable luxury brands, making the NX a sensible investment.

Fuel Efficiency and Green Credentials

Hybrid SUVs are increasingly popular in Australia, and the NX is well-positioned here. The NX 350h delivers outstanding real-world efficiency, often undercutting diesel rivals in fuel use while offering quieter performance.

The plug-in NX 450h+ is even greener, with the ability to run daily commutes on electric power alone if charged regularly. For eco-conscious buyers who aren’t ready to jump into a full EV, the NX represents a practical middle ground.

Verdict – Should You Buy the Lexus NX in Australia?

The Lexus NX is more than just a luxury SUV — it’s a statement of Lexus’ hybrid expertise, reliability, and premium craftsmanship.

• If you want efficiency and comfort: Go for the NX 350h Hybrid.
• If you want maximum eco-friendliness and occasional EV driving: The NX 450h+ PHEV is the pick.
• If budget is tighter but you still want Lexus quality: The NX 250 petrol is a solid entry point.

Compared to German rivals, the NX offers more equipment for less money, superior reliability, and a calmer ownership experience. It may not deliver the sharpest cornering thrills, but it excels where it matters most for Australian SUV buyers — efficiency, comfort, safety, and long-term value.

For many Aussies, the Lexus NX could be the smart luxury SUV choice in 2025.