Two crossover SUVs that are go-to choices for many in the market for their next vehicle are the Toyota RAV4 and Lexus NX. What are the differences between the Lexus NX and Toyota RAV4? This comparison review details out how the NX and RAV4 differ, ranging from dimensions and capacities to performance specs, trim level options, and features available.

Compare the Toyota RAV4 vs. Lexus NX here to learn about which SUV you want to explore further.

2024 Lexus NX vs. 2023 Toyota RAV4 Dimensions

Lexus NX vs. Toyota RAV4 Engines & Powertrains

The Lexus NX offers 4 different engine and powertrain combinations, including gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid. Available Lexus NX engines include: 203-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder, 275-hp 2.4L Turbo 4-cylinder, 240-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder and Lexus Hybrid Electric Drive, and 304-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder and Lexus Plug-in Hybrid Electric Drive engines.

When comparing engines on the Toyota RAV4, you will find that the RAV4 offers 3 different engine and powertrain choices, including a 203-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder, 219-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder Hybrid, and 302-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder Plug-in Hybrid engine.

Lets see a comparison of max horsepower, estimated MPG, and towing capacity between the Lexus NX and Toyota RAV4 gas-powered trims up close to get a better understanding of similarities and differences between the two SUV performances.

2024 Lexus NX:

• Max Horsepower: 275hp
• Max EPA-Estimated MPG City/Hwy: 26/33 MPG
• Max Towing Capacity: 2,000lbs

2023 Toyota RAV4:

• Max Horsepower: 203hp
• Max EPA-Estimated MPG City/Hwy: 28/35 MPG
• Max Towing Capacity: 3,500lbs

Lexus NX vs. Toyota RAV4 Trim Options

How do the Lexus NX trims compare to the Toyota RAV4? The RAV4 has 6 gas-powered trims and the NX has 3 gas-powered trims. For hybrids, the RAV4 Hybrid offers 7 hybrid versions, as well as 2 plug-in hybrid models. The Lexus NX has 1 hybrid trim, as well as 2 plug-in hybrid versions.

Lexus NX Trims

• NX 250
• NX 350 AWD
• NX 350 F SPORT Handling AWD
• NX 350h AWD
• NX 450h+ AWD
• NX 450h+ F SPORT Handling AWD

Toyota RAV4 Trims

• RAV4 LE
• RAV4 XLE
• RAV4 XLE Premium
• RAV4 Adventure
• RAV4 TRD Off-Road
• RAV4 Limited
• RAV4 Hybrid LE
• RAV4 Hybrid XLE
• RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition
• RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium
• RAV4 Hybrid SE
• RAV4 Hybrid XSE
• RAV4 Hybrid Limited
• RAV4 Prime SE
• RAV4 Prime XSE

Toyota RAV4 vs. Lexus NX Features Comparison Review

Both of these SUVs get constructed with advanced technology, have many design options, and come with the assurance of innovative safety systems standard.

Comparing Safety Features:

You will find many similarities with safety features for both of these models, but the Lexus NX takes things a bit further. The Toyota RAV4 has Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5 standard and this includes features: Pre-Collision System w/Pedestrian Detection, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert w/Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Automatic High Beams, and Road Sign Assist. Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert is available in a package on the base trim of the RAV4 and comes standard on the second trim up, the XLE.

Included with the Lexus NX is Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 and this forward-thinking system includes: Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management, Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and Intersection Support, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, and Intelligent High Beams. Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert also comes standard on the Lexus NX.

Comparing Technology:

How does the technology look when comparing the NX vs. RAV4? Both offer impressive features like Panoramic View Monitors, standard Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, and much more. In the RAV4 interior, you will find a standard 8-inch touchscreen and option to upgrade to a larger 10.5-inch touchscreen. The RAV4 comes with 6 speakers but you can also go for the available 11-speaker JBL® Premium Audio.

The Lexus NX stuns with its tech as well, with a Lexus Interface with 9.8-inch touchscreen standard and a 14-inch touchscreen with Lexus Interface available as an upgrade. You get a 10-speaker Lexus Premium Sound System standard to utilize, but if you want to take your listening experience further, there is an available Mark Levinson® 17-speaker system.

Comparing Interiors:

Both SUVs have comfortable and spacious interiors, however, the Lexus NX radiates pure luxury with standard heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, an available Lexus Memory System, a standard leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob, and standard 8-way power-adjustable front seats.

The RAV4 has a climate control system standard, but to get dual zone automatic climate control you will need to go up in trims. On the base trim you get a 6-way adjustable front driver’s seat and 4-way adjustable front passenger seat but just one trim up gets you an 8-way adjustable driver’s seat.

Check Out a Lexus NX at DARCARS Lexus of Englewood

After reviewing this competitive comparison between the Toyota RAV4 vs. Lexus NX, have you come to a decision on the SUV for you? The RAV4 offers a large variety of trims, spacious cargo room, and impressive capability, and the Lexus NX comes standard with a grand list of advanced technology and safety features, thrilling power, and luxurious amenities. If your want to see more about the Lexus NX in Englewood, NJ, head over to test drive an NX today at our Lexus dealership.

Frequently Asked Questions