CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: N/A
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 36.5%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 3.9 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 100
Average Price: Around £40,000

Lexus NX (2026) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Smooth, comfortable ride	Petrol engine sounds thrashy when pushed
Feels refreshingly different from German rivals	Too much body lean in corners
Lexus's enviable reputation for reliability	Rear-seat area is a little dark

Quick Summary

The Lexus NX is a mid-size premium SUV that sits between the smaller UX and larger RX in Lexus's lineup. The current model represents a significant evolution, moving onto a new platform and expanding its electrified powertrain options. Available as the NX350h self-charging hybrid or NX450h+ plug-in hybrid with 302bhp and 42-46 miles of electric-only range, it offers a refreshingly different approach to premium motoring compared to German rivals. With up to 525 litres of boot space, an electric tailgate as standard, and generous rear passenger space, it balances practicality with comfort.

The NX excels at delivering a relaxing, smooth driving experience with an excellent ride that soothes away road imperfections. Both hybrid systems enable near-silent electric progress at low speeds, whilst the 2.5-litre petrol engine provides strong performance when needed. Real-world fuel economy ranges from 45mpg for the front-wheel-drive NX350h to 50-60mpg for the NX450h+ depending on charging habits. Lexus's enviable reliability reputation, combined with thoughtful design, generous standard equipment, and a large, logically laid-out infotainment system, make the NX an exceptionally comfortable and well-specified alternative to sportier German SUVs.

Best for: Drivers prioritising comfort and reliability over sportiness, company-car users seeking tax-efficient plug-in hybrid efficiency, and those wanting a premium SUV that feels carefully engineered rather than brash.

Not ideal for: Buyers seeking sharp handling or dynamic driving characteristics, those wanting a darker rear cabin, or drivers unable to regularly charge a plug-in hybrid.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the NX if: You prioritise comfort and reliability over sportiness, are a company-car user seeking tax-efficient plug-in hybrid efficiency, or want a premium SUV that feels carefully engineered rather than brash.

Consider alternatives if: You seek sharp handling or dynamic driving characteristics, prefer a brighter rear cabin, or cannot regularly charge a plug-in hybrid.

Competitive Position: The Lexus NX stands out as a highly appealing alternative to German premium SUVs by going its own way rather than chasing sportiness. Whilst rivals like the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 score higher on overall CarGurus ratings and user satisfaction, the NX offers exceptional comfort, thoughtful design, and Lexus's enviable reliability reputation. It's ideal for those seeking a different approach to premium motoring, combining smooth hybrid power with impressive efficiency and plentiful equipment. The NX450h+ plug-in hybrid particularly appeals to company-car drivers and those prioritising electric driving capability without committing to a full EV.

Read our full Lexus NX Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from June 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.

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