2025 Lexus NX review

Within the constantly changing premium compact SUV market, the 2025 Lexus NX stands out as a sophisticated and progressive competitor. With the NX, an SUV built to provide a luxurious driving experience without sacrificing comfort, efficiency, or technology, Lexus continues to keep up with consumer preferences that are shifting toward cars that offer both luxury amenities and everyday practicality. The NX series, which debuted in 2015, immediately became well-known for its svelte styling, seamless operation, and legendary Lexus dependability. It has become one of the brand's most well-liked models throughout time, especially among younger drivers and city workers seeking a fashionable yet useful car. Building on the success of earlier updates, Lexus expands its appeal with the 2025 model year by adding more efficient powertrains, smarter technologies, and subtle design enhancements.

External Design

The 2025 Lexus NX's appearance is a tasteful fusion of aggressive styling and contemporary elegance, carrying on Lexus's design ethos while incorporating small but significant improvements. The goal of the NX's updated look is to attract attention without drawing attention to itself by balancing refinement and confidence.

Improved Front Fascia with Detailed Accents

The updated front fascia is among the most obvious 2025 changes. A distinguishing feature of Lexus design, the spindle grille has been delicately redesigned to blend in better with the body. The front end has a sleeker profile thanks to the grille's improved mesh design, which gives it a more upscale and aerodynamic appearance. New, thinner LED headlamps with sharper daytime running lights (DRLs) flank the grille, giving the NX a more aggressive and futuristic appearance.

A neat side profile with defined lines

Strong character lines that extend from the front fender to the back highlight the SUV's athletic stance while maintaining a clean and dynamic side profile. To preserve a smooth appearance, the 2025 model still uses flush-fitting door handles and seamlessly integrated window trim. Overall, the form keeps its small size, which makes it perfect for cities, while still giving it a strong appearance when driving.

New Designs for Alloy Wheels

Depending on the trim level, Lexus has unveiled a range of new alloy wheels for 2025 that measure between 18 and 20 inches. Whether it is the sportier variants with aggressive, angular spoke designs or the luxury-focused trims with delicate multi-spoke patterns, each design has been carefully chosen to complement the overall theme of the vehicle. These wheels improve ride quality and aerodynamics in addition to their aesthetic appeal.

Smooth Rear Improvements

The 2025 NX has a sleeker, more contemporary appearance in the back. The full-width LED taillight bar that was first seen on previous models is still present, but it has a slightly altered lighting signature for a more noticeable nighttime appearance. A simple "LEXUS" wordmark has taken the place of the Lexus logo, in keeping with the company's most recent worldwide stylistic approach. Without coming across as unduly forceful, subtle adjustments to the diffuser and rear bumper improve the SUV's upmarket vibe.

Color Scheme and Personalization

Lexus has added new high-end finishes to the NX's color scheme to go with the styling changes. These include deep blues, ultra-metallic silvers, and even satin-style grays that highlight the car's body lines in various lighting scenarios. Blacked-out exterior options, which are available on some grades and include darkened grille surrounds, mirror caps, and wheels for a more noticeable road presence, are an option for buyers seeking a more distinctive appearance.

A Well-Balanced Road Presence

The Lexus NX exudes confidence and sophistication in spite of its small size. The 2025 model's meticulously sculpted design and attention to detail make it stand out whether it is parked curbside or speeding down the highway. Its proportionate size guarantees that it can still be easily maneuvered in confined situations while maintaining the impressive visibility and presence that one would anticipate from a luxury SUV.

Comfort and Interior Design

When you enter the 2025 Lexus NX, you are greeted by a space that skillfully combines state-of-the-art styling with outstanding comfort. To provide a luxurious, easy-to-use, and tranquil driving and riding experience, every little feature has been thoughtfully chosen. The interior of the NX exudes a sense of subtle luxury, whether you are traveling for a weekend or commuting through the city.

Human-Centered Engineering Inspires Stylish Cabin Design

The "Tazuna" design philosophy, which emphasizes smooth communication between the driver and the vehicle, lies at the core of the NX's interior. This method guarantees that controls are positioned rationally, that screens are readable, and that the layout as a whole reduces distraction. The cabin gently curves around the driver, giving them a cockpit-like experience that improves concentration and self-assurance when driving.

Because of a clever architecture and careful use of space, the inside feels spacious and open even though it is classified as a compact SUV. Soft-touch materials, brushed metal accents, and optional wood trims give the dashboard a tactile feeling of luxury as it seamlessly blends over the front of the cabin.

High-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail

The 2025 NX is a testament to Lexus's reputation for quality construction. The interior is furnished with either real leather upholstery, NuLuxe® synthetic leather, or perforated leather with contrast stitching, depending on the trim level. High-quality materials that feel sturdy and elegant are used to finish touchpoints throughout the car, including the center console, door panels, and steering wheel.

The craftsmanship is evident even in the base trimmings. From the stitching on the seats to the climate control knobs, even the smallest details exhibit exquisite design cues and accuracy, devoid of cheap plastics and unpolished surfaces.

Comfortable Seating for Every Traveler

With several power-adjustment options, the NX's front seats are ergonomically built to support passengers on lengthy rides. For year-round comfort, the majority of mid- to upper-level trims come equipped with heated and ventilated front seats as standard. Even driver memory settings and lumbar support that may be adjusted are included in higher models.

Passengers enjoy a surprisingly large amount of space in the back for a car in its class. The NX is a good option for small families or people who regularly travel with passengers because the second-row seats provide enough of legroom and a pleasant seating posture. Additionally, some trims provide rear seat heating, which adds even more luxury.

Capacity for Cargo and Useful Features

The 2025 NX has useful stowage space behind the back seats for daily use. The cargo room is well-shaped and accessible, despite not being the largest in its class. There is space for many baggage or a weekly supermarket haul when the back seats are up. The cargo area is greatly increased when the second-row seats are folded, giving room for bulkier objects like strollers, sports equipment, and luggage. A hands-free power liftgate adds even more convenience by enabling you to open the back hatch with just a foot motion. This is a useful feature when your hands are full.

Calm Ambient Lighting and Calm Ambience

The emotional experience of being inside the NX is another thing that Lexus has taken into consideration. With a variety of color choices, drivers can customize the mood of the cabin with ambient inside lighting, which is available on higher trim levels. This understated lighting improves nighttime driving and heightens the feeling of comfort and serenity.

Another noteworthy aspect is acoustic insulation. Even at highway speeds, the 2025 NX's quiet cabin is enhanced by acoustic glass and sound-deadening materials. Road noise is reduced, music is more engrossing, and conversations are clear—all of which add to a classy, first-class experience.

Tech and entertainment

More than just a high-end SUV, the 2025 Lexus NX is a technological showcase meant to keep drivers delighted, informed, and connected on every trip. To guarantee that technology not only improves convenience but also helps provide a safer, more customized driving experience, Lexus has made deliberate breakthroughs.

The NX's technology anticipates your requirements and reacts naturally, whether you are streaming your favorite music, navigating city streets, or merely adjusting the climate controls.

14-inch Lexus interface with touchscreen

The available 14-inch high-definition touchscreen, which acts as the primary hub for infotainment and vehicle settings, is the centerpiece of the NX's technological package. The driver can easily reach this monitor, which has a clear, easy-to-use interface, quick response times, and sharp visuals.

The touchscreen, which is powered by the most recent Lexus Interface system, enables seamless control over media, navigation, climate, and other features. With its clever menu structure and easily accessible icons, the new layout feels contemporary and user-friendly in contrast to previous systems that mostly depended on touchpads or buttons.

The larger 14-inch screen, which is standard on higher trims, enhances the experience and flawlessly blends in with the opulent interior. Base trims come with a smaller screen.

Android Auto and Apple CarPlay wirelessly

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are two of the 2025 Lexus NX's most notable features. Without requiring a physical connection, these solutions enable drivers to effortlessly reflect the interface of their smartphone onto the infotainment screen.

The technology keeps you completely connected without diverting your focus from the road, whether you are using voice commands to send messages, accessing your preferred navigation apps, or queuing up music or podcasts. An easy digital lifestyle is also supported with wireless charging and numerous USB-C connectors.

"Hi Lexus," says the voice-activated assistant.

An additional level of convenience is provided by the integrated voice assistant. Drivers can activate a variety of commands, such as finding the closest gas station or altering the cabin temperature, by simply saying "Hey Lexus." Unlike conventional voice controls, the system is more intuitive because it is made to recognize normal speech patterns.

By enabling numerous operations to be managed without taking hands off the wheel or eyes off the road, this feature helps prevent driver distraction.

Cluster of Digital Instruments and Personalization

The NX has a fully digital instrument cluster in addition to the center touchscreen, providing a customized view of key data including speed, navigation directions, driver-assist status, and more. Depending on their tastes or the road circumstances, drivers can select from a variety of display layouts.

This digital configuration adds to the car's overall futuristic appearance and creates a high-tech driving atmosphere.

Features of Optional Technology for a High-End Experience

To enhance the experience, Lexus provides a variety of technology for customers looking for even more sophisticated features:

Drivers may keep informed without looking down thanks to the Head-Up Display (HUD), which projects important driving information onto the windshield.

With a carefully positioned speaker array, the Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound System produces studio-caliber sounds for a captivating auditory experience.

When passengers or goods hamper conventional visibility, the digital rearview mirror's built-in camera allows for a wider, unhindered rear view.

Cloud-Based Navigation with Over-the-Air Updates: Automatically update system software and maps for increased functionality and accuracy over time.

Customization and Linked Services

Drivers can remotely access functions including climate control, remote start, door locking and unlocking, and car status checks via the Lexus app. Particularly when operating the car remotely, these services offer convenience and comfort of mind.

In order to guarantee that settings for seat position, climate preferences, music, and navigation are implemented automatically, user profiles can also be recorded and connected to the driver's smart key or smartphone app.

A Careful Juxtaposition of Usability and Luxury

The 2025 NX's technology is notable not only for its feature set but also for how well it functions as a whole. Lexus has refrained from overburdening drivers with needless intricacy. Rather, the NX concentrates on developing a clever, integrated experience that is easy to use and actually improves everyday driving.

Options for the Powertrain

With one of the most varied powertrain options in its class, the 2025 Lexus NX distinguishes itself in the small luxury SUV market. There is an NX model that fits your needs, whether fuel economy, smooth daily driving, or a more responsive and dynamic experience are your top priorities.

True to the brand's dedication to balancing luxury and dependability, Lexus has carefully designed each NX variation to give accurate handling, refined performance, and a quiet, confident ride.

NX 250: Simplicity Aspirated by Nature

The NX 250, which has a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine, is the base model in the series. Together with an 8-speed automatic transmission, this engine generates 203 horsepower.

Performance: Smooth acceleration makes it perfect for interstate cruising and city commuting.

Drivetrain: All-wheel drive (AWD) or front-wheel drive (FWD) are options.

Fuel Efficiency: (combined estimate) about 28 miles per gallon.

For drivers who value dependability, simplicity, and reduced operating expenses without sacrificing comfort and sophistication, this version is perfect.

NX 350: Increased Performance and Turbocharged Power

The NX 350 offers a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque for drivers looking for a more aggressive drive.

Transmission: 8-speed automatic with smooth shifting.

Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD), which enhances handling and traction, is standard.

Acceleration: 6.6 seconds (estimated) from 0 to 60 mph.

Fuel Efficiency: around 25 mpg (all combined).

The NX 350 successfully balances everyday usage and performance. It is ideal for drivers who want to navigate difficult terrain or merge into highways with confidence without compromising style

NX 350h: Standard AWD and an Effective Hybrid

The NX 350h offers a hybrid drivetrain without sacrificing performance for buyers who are concerned about the environment but yet want a powerful SUV. It has a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 240 horsepower when combined with two electric motors.

Drivetrain: An independent electric motor powers the back wheels, enabling All-Wheel Drive (AWD) as standard.

Transmission: For seamless power delivery, use Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT).

Fuel Efficiency: A remarkable combined estimated 39 mpg.

This variant uses a lot less gasoline and provides a smooth, quiet ride. It is an excellent choice for both short-distance and long-distance driving because the switch between gas and electric power is almost seamless.

The Plug-In Hybrid Flagship, the NX 450h+

The NX 450h+, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) that blends performance, efficiency, and elegance, sits at the top of the powertrain range. It combines a larger battery pack and more powerful electric motors with the same 2.5-liter engine as the 350h, producing 302 horsepower overall.

Electric Range: An estimated 37 miles of fully electric driving makes it perfect for quick commutes and fuel-free errands.

Charging: For quicker recharging, it is compatible with both Level 1 (a typical home outlet) and Level 2 (240V) chargers.

Drivetrain: For assured handling, AWD is standard.

Efficiency: Outstanding fuel efficiency, particularly for drivers who frequently switch to electric vehicles.

With its hybrid versatility for longer trips and electric efficiency for local driving, the NX 450h+ provides the best of both worlds. The most potent and technologically sophisticated model in the series, it appeals to drivers seeking superior performance and environmentally beneficial features.

Optimized for Comfort and Confidence in Driving Dynamics

The 2025 Lexus NX is designed with comfort and control in mind across all powertrains. The steering is responsive without coming across as unduly forceful, and the suspension is adjusted to absorb road irregularities while preserving stability. Every journey feels calm and peaceful thanks to the NX's distinctive smoothness, which is maintained even in the more potent models.

With performance-focused features like sport seats, adaptive variable suspension, and improved brakes, the F Sport Handling trims—which come with the NX 350 and NX 450h+—make driving more exciting and dynamic for enthusiasts.

Safety and Driver Support

The 2025 Lexus NX upholds Lexus's longstanding reputation for safety by offering an amazing array of standard and optional technologies that are intended to safeguard, support, and comfort both drivers and passengers. Through cutting-edge technologies and careful engineering, the NX offers a strong sense of security whether driving on the highway or through congested city streets.

The most recent iteration of Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, a comprehensive package that integrates state-of-the-art driver aid features into every NX model, regardless of trim level, is at the core of its safety offering.

Lexus Safety System+ 3.0: A More Intelligent Method of Defense

The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which improves upon earlier iterations with increased precision and expanded capabilities, is standard on every 2025 NX. This technique is intended to lessen the severity of possible collisions and assist in preventing accidents before they occur.

Important characteristics include:

Pre-Collision System with Cyclist and Pedestrian Identification

use cameras and forward-facing radar to keep an eye on the road ahead. In order to lessen impact or prevent an accident completely, the system can automatically apply the brakes and notify the driver if it detects a possible collision.

Alert for Lane Departure with Steering Assistance

keeps an eye on traffic signs and, if accidental drifting is detected, gently nudges the car back into its lane. On highways and multilane roads, this feature performs admirably, particularly on lengthy rides.

Help with Lane Tracing

This feature uses minor steering adjustments to keep the car centered in its lane when adaptive cruise control is engaged. It makes driving in heavy traffic or on lengthy highway trips smoother and less taxing.

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (All-Speed) automatically modifies speed to correspond with traffic flow while maintaining a predetermined speed and distance from the car in front. It can assist lessen driver tiredness by bringing the car to a complete stop and starting up again when traffic resumes.

Road Sign Assist helps drivers stay informed without taking their eyes off the road by detecting and displaying road signs like yield signs, stop signs, and speed restrictions on the digital instrument panel.

Active Driving Support

A new feature that helps preserve safer and smoother driving habits by gently adjusting the steering or brakes when it senses curves, pedestrians, or vehicles ahead.

Extra Highlights of Standard Safety

In addition to the fundamental driver-assist functions, the NX comes with a number of basic safety features, such as:

Blind Spot Monitor makes lane changes safer by alerting the driver when another car is spotted in the nearby lane.

Rear Cross-Traffic Alert lowers the chance of backup crashes by assisting in the detection of oncoming cars from the side when reversing out of parking spots.

When a door is ready to be opened, Safe Exit Assist uses radar sensors to alert passengers if a car or cyclist is approaching from behind.

A useful feature for families is the rear seat reminder, which alerts the driver to inspect the back seats before getting out of the car.

Advanced Safety Features Available

Lexus provides a range of optional safety enhancements that increase the NX's protective qualities for customers who want even more peace of mind:

View Monitor in Panoramic

makes parking and tight maneuvers easier by using several cameras to provide an aerial picture of the area.

When accelerating at crossroads with poor visibility, the Front Cross-Traffic Alert alerts the driver of cars approaching from either side.

By automatically applying the brakes in the event of an object detection, the Parking Support Brake helps prevent or lessen low-speed collisions while parking.

Digital Rearview Mirror

uses a video feed to provide an unhindered view of the area behind the car; this is particularly helpful when the back glass is obscured.

Ratings for Crash Tests and Structural Integrity

Although official 2025 crash test scores are still pending as of this writing, the Lexus NX has continuously scored highly in prior model years. For instance, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2024 NX a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) a Top Safety Pick+.

Similar outcomes are anticipated since the 2025 model is based on the same robust framework and gains from continuous safety improvements.