Leave it to Lexus to shine in the compact luxury crossover segment. And then there’s an h after that as well. It may be a hybrid, but the 2025 NX 350h is a fun vehicle to drive on the road, responsive to any driving situation, packed with luxury/high-tech equipment and safety features. This lively SUV is suitably quick, accelerating from 0 to 60 in just over 7 seconds and has a top speed of 200 mph.
The 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine produces 240 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 179 pound-feet of torque at 4,300 rpm. The all-wheel drive NX is connected to two battery-powered electric motors, with the second electric motor driving the rear wheels for increased traction. It is combined with a regular continuously variable transmission. However, the driver can choose between Normal, Eco and Sport modes. When decelerating or braking, the vehicle uses regenerative deceleration to use much of the wasted energy to charge the hybrid battery.
The long, sleek front flaunts the familiar Lexus spindle grille with dark chrome trim, flanked by triple-beam LED headlights and fog lamps. Full-width taillamps with new LEXUS insignia are a nice touch. Step into the bright and spacious cabin (thanks to an array of ambient lights) and you’ll instantly feel cozy and comfortable on the plush semi-aniline leather seats. At the top of the dash is a huge 14-inch touch screen for the driver to control the climate, audio, and phone. The 27.7 cubic feet behind the second row could have used a little more cabin room, but the underfloor storage bin in the cargo area is a smart idea. Also standard are dual auto AC, 8-way power heated/cooled front seats and manual reclining/folding 60/40 rear seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel/shifter, 10-speaker premium sound, head-up display, and wireless CarPlay. . Android Auto, power moonroof/liftgate, power tilt/telescoping steering column.
Standard safety features include dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbags, driver knee airbag, passenger cushion airbag, as well as side-impact door beams, four-wheel antilock brakes, electronic brake distribution and braking. Includes assistance, vehicle stability and safety. Traction control, rearview camera, blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, push button start, 3-point seatbelts with pretensioners, front/rear park sensors, crumple zones. For added protection, there’s Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning with steer assist, smart beam headlamps, and dynamic cruise control.
If you’re looking for a compact luxury crossover with a powerful engine, great fuel economy (36 mpg continuous), and plenty of comfort, the NX 350h fits the bill.
