Hey car enthusiasts! Are you guys currently in the market for a luxury SUV? Then, you've likely got the Lexus NX 350 and the RX 350 on your radar. Both are stellar options from Lexus, a brand renowned for its reliability, opulent interiors, and smooth driving experiences. But, choosing between them can feel like a tough decision. They share the same manufacturer, but there are some key differences. In this detailed comparison, we'll dive deep into the 2024 Lexus NX 350 and RX 350. We will compare their specs, features, and overall value to help you make an informed decision and discover which SUV best suits your needs and lifestyle. Buckle up, and let's get started!

Lexus NX 350: Compact Luxury Redefined

The 2024 Lexus NX 350 embodies the essence of a compact luxury SUV. It is designed for those seeking a blend of practicality, style, and advanced technology in a smaller footprint. The NX 350 has been carefully crafted, with an emphasis on urban adaptability and fuel efficiency. It appeals to a demographic that values maneuverability and ease of parking without sacrificing the premium experience Lexus is known for. With its sharp lines, bold front grille, and sophisticated interior, the NX 350 makes a striking statement on the road. It isn't just about looks, though. The NX 350 is packed with features, offering a comfortable and connected driving experience. It’s a great pick if you want a luxury SUV that is easy to handle in city environments and offers great tech. Let's delve deeper into what makes the NX 350 stand out, examining its performance, interior, and overall value proposition.

Performance and Powertrain

The heart of the 2024 Lexus NX 350 is its robust 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, which produces a spirited 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth and responsive shifts. Front-wheel drive is standard, but you can opt for all-wheel drive for enhanced traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. The NX 350 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 6.6 seconds, making it feel surprisingly quick for its class. Fuel economy is also impressive, with an estimated 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for the front-wheel-drive model. The all-wheel-drive version sees a slight decrease in fuel efficiency but still maintains competitive numbers. The NX 350's suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. Its nimble handling and precise steering make it a joy to drive in various conditions, from city streets to winding country roads. The engine provides ample power for everyday driving, while the well-engineered chassis ensures a composed and engaging driving experience.

Interior and Technology

Inside the 2024 Lexus NX 350, you'll find a meticulously crafted cabin that exudes luxury and sophistication. The interior design emphasizes both style and functionality, with premium materials and thoughtful details throughout. The seats are supportive and comfortable, providing excellent comfort for both short commutes and long journeys. The infotainment system is centered around a large touchscreen display, which seamlessly integrates navigation, audio controls, and smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The user interface is intuitive and easy to use, with crisp graphics and responsive touch controls. The NX 350 also comes equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, enhancing safety and convenience. The available features, such as a panoramic sunroof, a premium audio system, and a head-up display, further elevate the luxury experience. The interior offers a blend of style, comfort, and advanced technology, making every drive a pleasurable experience.

Value and Practicality

The Lexus NX 350 offers excellent value for its price, providing a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and features. Its starting price is competitive within the compact luxury SUV segment, making it an attractive option for those seeking a premium driving experience without breaking the bank. The NX 350's fuel efficiency and reliability contribute to lower ownership costs. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver and park, while still providing ample cargo space and passenger room. The NX 350 is a practical choice for individuals or small families seeking a versatile and stylish SUV. The resale value of the NX 350 is also strong, ensuring that you will retain a good portion of your investment over time. It offers a great blend of luxury, practicality, and value, solidifying its position as a top contender in the compact luxury SUV market.

Lexus RX 350: The Established Luxury Icon

The 2024 Lexus RX 350 is a flagship model that has long defined the mid-size luxury SUV segment. Known for its sophisticated design, comfortable ride, and exceptional reliability, the RX 350 is a favorite among those who prioritize a refined driving experience and ample space. The RX 350 combines elegance, functionality, and advanced technology in a package that appeals to a broad range of drivers. Its spacious interior, powerful engine options, and premium features make it an ideal choice for families and individuals who desire a vehicle that excels in comfort, performance, and overall refinement. The RX 350 is a testament to Lexus's commitment to quality and innovation. It's a vehicle designed to provide a luxurious and enjoyable experience for both the driver and passengers. Let's delve into the details that make the RX 350 stand out, exploring its performance, interior, and overall appeal.

Performance and Powertrain

The 2024 Lexus RX 350 is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, just like the NX 350, but with different tuning. This engine delivers 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering seamless gear changes and optimal performance. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is available for enhanced traction and control. The RX 350 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.9 seconds, which is slightly slower than the NX 350, but still offers plenty of power for everyday driving. Fuel economy is impressive for its size, with an estimated 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for the front-wheel-drive model. The all-wheel-drive version has slightly reduced fuel efficiency. The RX 350's suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections with ease. The precise steering and composed handling make it a pleasure to drive, whether navigating city streets or cruising on the open highway. The engine's responsiveness and the smooth transmission provide a refined and engaging driving experience.

Interior and Technology

Inside the 2024 Lexus RX 350, you'll find a spacious and luxurious cabin that caters to both comfort and sophistication. The interior is meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, including premium leather and wood trim, creating an atmosphere of refined elegance. The seats are plush and supportive, offering exceptional comfort for both the driver and passengers. The infotainment system features a large touchscreen display with intuitive controls and seamless smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The RX 350 is also equipped with a range of advanced driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, enhancing safety and convenience. Available features, like a panoramic sunroof, a premium Mark Levinson audio system, and a head-up display, further elevate the luxury experience. The interior of the RX 350 offers a perfect blend of style, comfort, and advanced technology, making it a truly exceptional vehicle.

Value and Practicality

The Lexus RX 350 represents a strong value proposition within the mid-size luxury SUV segment. Its starting price reflects its premium features, performance, and overall refinement. The RX 350’s reliability and fuel efficiency contribute to lower ownership costs. It offers a spacious interior and ample cargo capacity, making it an excellent choice for families and individuals who need extra space. The RX 350's resale value is typically high, ensuring that it retains a good portion of its value over time. It provides a blend of luxury, practicality, and performance, solidifying its position as a top choice in its class. The RX 350 offers a compelling package for those seeking a luxurious and dependable SUV.

Lexus NX 350 vs RX 350: Key Differences

Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty and look at the key differences between the 2024 Lexus NX 350 and RX 350. These differences help define their individual characters and appeal to different types of drivers. Knowing these distinctions is essential for making the right choice for your lifestyle and needs.

• Size and Space: The RX 350 is the larger SUV. It offers more interior space, especially for rear passengers and cargo. The NX 350 is more compact, making it easier to maneuver and park in urban environments. If you frequently haul passengers or need extra cargo capacity, the RX 350 is the better option. If you value maneuverability and don't need the extra space, the NX 350 will serve you well.
• Price: Generally, the RX 350 has a higher starting price than the NX 350, reflecting its larger size and more features. The NX 350 provides a great entry point into the Lexus luxury experience. The RX 350 provides more of a premium driving experience, but at a higher price.
• Driving Experience: Both offer a smooth and comfortable ride. The NX 350 is a bit sportier with more responsive handling, making it feel more agile. The RX 350 prioritizes comfort and offers a more relaxed driving experience, ideal for long journeys. You can tell which suits your driving style better by taking both for a test drive!
• Fuel Efficiency: Both SUVs have good fuel economy ratings for their classes. The NX 350 often gets slightly better fuel economy due to its smaller size and weight. If fuel efficiency is a top priority, the NX 350 might be the slightly better choice, although the difference isn’t huge.
• Features: Both models are packed with features, but the RX 350 often offers more available luxury and technology options due to its higher trim levels and positioning in the market. The NX 350 is still very well-equipped. It may simply lack some of the premium features that come standard on the RX 350.

Which Lexus SUV Should You Choose?

So, which Lexus SUV should you choose? The answer depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. Here's a quick guide to help you decide:

• Choose the NX 350 if: You want a more compact and agile SUV that's easy to maneuver in the city. You value a sportier driving experience and prefer a more affordable option. You don't need as much cargo space and prioritize fuel efficiency. If you are looking for a luxury experience and don't need a lot of space, the NX 350 is for you.
• Choose the RX 350 if: You need more space for passengers and cargo. You desire a more comfortable and refined driving experience. You want access to a wider range of luxury features and options. You prioritize a spacious interior and a premium driving experience. The RX 350 is a great choice if you have a family or need extra space.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the 2024 Lexus NX 350 and RX 350 are outstanding luxury SUVs that offer a compelling combination of performance, comfort, and features. The NX 350 excels as a compact and sporty option, perfect for city driving. It offers great value and a modern design. The RX 350 remains a leader in the mid-size luxury SUV segment. It provides more space, a more refined experience, and a broader range of premium features. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, space requirements, and driving style when making your decision. Whichever model you choose, you can rest assured that you'll be driving a high-quality, reliable, and luxurious vehicle from Lexus.

We hope this comparison has been helpful! Happy car shopping, and enjoy the ride!