For 2026, Lexus offers two closely related crossover SUVs at the core of its lineup: the compact NX and the midsize RX. They share many design elements, providing sleek styling, a quiet driving experience, and an interior focused on touchscreen controls and advanced safety features. Both emphasize comfort over sportiness, with a smooth driving feel that is distinctly Lexus. Similar infotainment systems and driver assistance features highlight their family connection.
Their powertrain menus are similar. Each offers a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a conventional hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), giving buyers several good choices. Both lineups begin with front-wheel-drive (FWD) models before offering all-wheel-drive (AWD) versions. While their standard horsepower figures are similar, the RX features a higher-performance variant that delivers far more power than any model in the NX lineup.
Size is where the two differ most clearly. The RX is longer, wider, and sits on a longer wheelbase, offering more passenger space and greater cargo capacity behind the second row of seats. It feels more substantial and open inside, while the NX sacrifices some of that space for easier handling and a smaller footprint, which may appeal to city drivers or those who value ease of parking. Both interiors are well finished, but the RX has a more commanding presence, while the NX offers a luxurious feel in a more compact package.
With overlapping technology and shared design philosophy, but significant differences in size, power, and interior space, the 2026 NX and RX offer a comparison driven more by what buyers value most than by right or wrong choices.
2026 Lexus NX 350h
For 2026, the Lexus NX lineup comprises four trim levels, Base, Premium, Luxury, and F Sport Handling, and can be paired with three powertrain options. Buyers can choose the turbocharged NX 350, the NX 350h hybrid, or the plug-in NX 450h+. Pricing begins at $46,470 for the FWD NX 350h, while the lowest-priced non-hybrid model, the AWD NX 350, starts at $47,120. The lineup peaks with the NX 450h+ F Sport Handling AWD, which starts at $64,425. All prices include the $1,295 destination charge.
The 2026 NX includes four years of unlimited mileage roadside assistance and free LexusCare coverage for the first two scheduled maintenance visits. A trial of Lexus Drive Connect offers access to remote functions, emergency support, cloud-based navigation, and service alerts. Additionally, buyers get a 30-day/3-gigabyte Lexus Wi-Fi Connect trial of in-vehicle hotspot capability.
The 2026 Lexus RX includes four main trims, Base, Premium, Premium Plus, and Luxury, and three F Sport trims: Design, Handling, and Performance. All but the F Sport Handling and F Sport Performance trims offer either FWD or AWD; the F Sport Handling and F Sport Performance trims are available only with AWD. The FWD 350 trim is the most affordable among the 2026 RX lineup, starting at $52,275. The plug-in hybrid 450h+ Luxury AWD begins at $73,310. All prices include the $1,450 destination charge.
Like the NX, the Lexus RX offers buyers a complimentary maintenance plan that includes the first two scheduled service visits and free roadside assistance for four years with no mileage limit. The RX's connectivity features are also almost the same as those in the NX, including trials of Drive Connect, Remote Connect, and Wi-Fi Connect, with durations as short as a 30-day/30-gigabyte trial of Wi-Fi Connect. Safety Connect and Service Connect provide five-year trials.
Advantage: Lexus RX
Why? The RX offers the most powerful option.
2026 Lexus RX 350 Premium
The Lexus NX does not rank among the top three models in the Compact Premium SUV segment in the JD Power 2026 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), which assesses owner reported problems after three years of ownership.
The NX ranks second in its segment in the JD Power 2025 U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS), which tracks problems experienced by owners during the first 90 days.
The 2026 Lexus NX comes with a standard warranty of four years or 50,000 miles and a powertrain warranty of six years or 70,000 miles.
The Lexus RX ranks third in the Midsize Premium SUV segment in the 2026 VDS and second in its segment (in a tie) in the 2025 IQS. Unsurprisingly, it offers the same warranty coverage as its sibling, the Lexus NX.
Advantage: Lexus RX
Why? The NX performs well in initial quality, but the RX is among the top three models in its segment for both quality and vehicle dependability.
2026 Lexus NX 350h
For 2026, the Lexus NX offers potential buyers three powertrain options. The NX 350 features a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. The NX 350h hybrid, available with FWD or AWD, combines its gasoline engine with electric motor assistance for a total output of 240 hp. The NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid tops the lineup with 304 hp and an EPA-estimated electric-only range of 37 miles.
Fuel economy varies widely depending on the powertrain. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rates the FWD NX 350h at 40 mpg combined, while the AWD version is rated at 39 mpg. The AWD NX 350 has a combined rating of 24 mpg. As of now, the EPA has not finalized figures for the 2026 NX 450h+, but Lexus estimates a combined 84 MPGe for the PHEV.
A two-row, five-passenger crossover, the NX is 9 inches shorter overall than the Lexus RX, resulting in a less spacious cabin. However, cargo capacity remains generous—22.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 46.9 cubic feet with the second row folded. A power liftgate comes standard, with higher trims adding hands-free operation.
Lexus offers its 2026 RX buyers a diverse selection of powertrains. The 350 models come with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine identical to the one in the NX. It produces 275 hp and 317 pound-feet of torque. The 350h models feature a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid system, delivering a total of 246 hp and 233 pound-feet of torque. The plug-in hybrid 450h+ provides 304 hp and an EPA-estimated all-electric range of 38 miles. At the top of the lineup, the 500h F Sport Performance combines a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with hybrid drive to produce 366 hp and 406 pound-feet of torque.
According to the EPA, the turbocharged RX 350 gets an estimated 25 mpg combined in FWD and 24 mpg combined with AWD. The powerful 500h offers a 27-mpg combined rating, while the hybrid 350h leads with a 36-mpg combined mark. As of this writing, the EPA has not published a rating for the 450h+ PHEV, but Lexus reports an 85 MPGe rating.
The Lexus RX is larger than the NX in nearly every way. Both crossovers comfortably seat five, but the RX provides more space in both rows. With the rear seat in use, the RX surpasses its smaller sibling in rear cargo capacity, offering 29.6 cubic feet compared to 22.7 for the NX. However, with the rear seat folded, the NX surprises with 46.9 cubic feet of cargo space, just slightly more than the RX's 46.2 cubic feet. The RX includes features such as a convenient 40/20/40 split-folding and reclining rear seats, and most versions come with a power-operated rear hatch. An optional kick sensor is available for opening the hatch.
Advantage: Lexus RX
Why? The RX is more spacious and comfortable, plus it has a more powerful top-tier drivetrain.
2026 Lexus RX 350 Premium
At this point, it is reasonable for any consumer to expect a brand new vehicle to include the following safety features:
So, how do the NX and RX stack up? Let's take a look.
The 2026 Lexus NX features Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (LSS+ 3.0), which offers a comprehensive range of driver assistance features. While blind spot and rear cross-traffic warnings are not included in that package, both are additional standard features on every 2026 NX SUV. Key advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) include collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assistance, navigation-linked adaptive cruise control (ACC), lane centering assistance, and automatic emergency steering with braking assist. Optional features comprise a surround view camera, front cross-traffic warning, lane change assist, and active parking assistance.
Safety ratings for the 2026 NX are not yet available. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not issued an overall score, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has not evaluated the 2026 model. However, the structurally similar 2025 NX received a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Institute for the 2025 calendar year, though the SUV has yet to earn that distinction for 2026.
You probably will not be surprised to learn that the 2026 Lexus RX also offers LSS+ 3.0. Additionally, the RX includes blind spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning, two systems that are not part of LSS+ 3.0. Through an optional package available on several trims, buyers can add traffic jam assist, lane change assist, and front cross-traffic warning. A head-up display and a surround view camera system are also available in optional packages.
The NHTSA has awarded most versions of the 2026 Lexus RX a maximum five-star overall safety rating. Exceptions include the FWD RX 350, which received four stars, and the 450h+ PHEV, which it did not rate. Meanwhile, the IIHS gave the 2026 RX the highest-possible Good ratings in two of three crashworthiness tests, but a Poor rating in the updated moderate overlap front test.
Advantage: Lexus RX
Why? The RX earns five-star NHTSA safety ratings for most versions.
2026 Lexus NX 350h
The 2026 NX features the luxury brand’s proprietary Lexus Interface infotainment system. Most trims come with a 9.8-inch touchscreen, while a 14-inch display is available as an option. The larger display is standard on the 450h+ plug-in hybrid. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring are standard on all trims, along with Bluetooth connectivity and a three-month SiriusXM Platinum satellite radio trial. Higher trims include a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.
The NX's connected services include trial periods of different lengths and feature remote engine start and door locking via Remote Connect. Wi-Fi Connect offers hotspot capability for up to five devices, while Safety Connect provides emergency assistance, and Service Connect tracks vehicle health and maintenance status.
The NX’s cloud-based navigation works like systems in other competing models, but its Destination Assist feature connects drivers with live agents who can send directions directly to the vehicle. Through user profiles, owners can save preferences for navigation, audio, and language, and the Intelligent Assistant supports voice commands for climate control, routing, and infotainment.
The 2026 Lexus RX features standard and optional infotainment systems similar to those in the NX. It also uses the in-house-developed Lexus infotainment platform. Base models feature a 9.8-inch touchscreen, while a 14-inch touchscreen is available on mid-level trims and standard on top trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a three-month SiriusXM trial, are standard across all 2026 RX trims. A Lexus-branded 12-speaker audio system is standard, with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson system available on certain trims.
Purchasers of the 2026 RX receive a range of connected services with free trial periods of varying lengths. These include Drive Connect, which offers cloud-based navigation, a voice-controlled intelligent assistant, and Destination Assist, which features live agents. Remote Connect provides engine start functionality, and Safety Connect includes automatic emergency services.
Lexus Smart Stop Technology, standard on the 2026 RX and NX, is designed to prevent unintended acceleration by automatically cutting engine power when it detects the brake and accelerator being pressed simultaneously. Reducing power without shutting off the engine allows the SUV to maintain steering and helps the driver bring the vehicle to a safe stop.
Advantage: Neither
Why? When it comes to infotainment and connectivity, the NX and RX are like two bytes on a silicon chip.
2026 Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance AWD
The 2026 Lexus NX continues to play a key role in the lineup, aiming to combine refinement, comfort, and advanced technology in a compact luxury package. The cabin feels well-designed, the ride is smooth and controlled, and the feature list stands out in a crowded market. It is more confined inside than some European rivals for both passengers and cargo, but the NX still projects a premium vibe that makes rush-hour commutes and weekend drives feel just as refined.
Where the NX truly excels is under the hood. Few competitors offer such a wide range of powertrains, from a turbocharged gasoline model to a hybrid and a full plug-in hybrid. The base version features FWD, while all other variants switch to AWD. At the top, the 304-hp PHEV combines efficiency with enough power to feel genuinely responsive, even if it does not match the performance of machines like the Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 or the BMW X3 M50 xDrive.
The Lexus RX is the originator of the luxury crossover SUV segment and remains the top seller in that category. The current generation, introduced in 2022 as a 2023 model, is the fifth and most diverse. Like the NX, it offers a wide range of powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, a hybrid, a plug-in hybrid, and a turbo/hybrid combo. Compared to the NX, its mainstream trims deliver similar horsepower, but its F Sport Performance version is significantly more powerful than the NX's top trim.
Since the RX is longer, wider, and has a longer wheelbase than the NX, it is easy to see that it offers a more spacious interior than the NX. Subjectively, the RX's interior also feels grander, although the NX is still well-designed and carefully crafted. Regarding infotainment and technology, the two Lexus SUVs are essentially identical. Although the NX has become a near-clone of the RX, if I am advising the typical luxury SUV buyer on which to choose, I would recommend the RX.
Advantage: Lexus RX
Why? The RX is larger and more comfortable than the NX, and if you choose wisely, it does not cost much more.
To learn more about these Lexus SUVs, read our expert reviews of the 2025 Lexus NX and the Lexus RX. To see how consumers rate models in this segment, check out our ratings from verified vehicle owners.
Additionally, please note that while the information in this article was accurate and current as of March 20, 2026, it may have changed since then. Always verify product details and availability on the automaker's website or with your local dealership.
Jack R. Nerad has reviewed cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs for over three decades. He also managed the editorial efforts of MotorTrend, JD Power, and Kelley Blue Book. Jack currently hosts the Sports Byline Network program “America on the Road,” available on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Spotify, Audacy, Amazon Music, and other platforms.
The Ford Transit is the automaker’s full-size cargo and passenger van offering, designed to serve a wide range of commercial and lifestyle applications. With 37 available configurations, the platform ...See More
Read the Full Article
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size, three-row SUV with a standard V8 engine and available diesel power. Built on the same platform as the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 pickup, the Tahoe benefits from its ...See More
Read the Full Article
It is the end of the line for the Ford Escape. After 25 years as a fixture of Ford’s lineup, 2026 will be the compact SUV’s last model year.
Read the Full Article
The Colorado is Chevrolet’s midsize pickup. It ranks among the segment’s most capable trucks for payload and towing, and can be configured for both work and off-road adventures. For 2026, the ...See More
Read the Full Article