2025 Lexus NX 350h Review: Luxury Hybrid SUV vs. Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

Exterior Design and Features

• 🎨 The 2025 Lexus NX 350h is presented in a striking Nori Green color, featuring a multi-LED triple beam headlight system and LED fog lamps.
• 💨 While the front grille design is specific to the trim, the vehicle incorporates functional aero elements for improved MPG.
• 💨 The 20-inch silver V-spoke wheels are a highlight, though the use of flat black trim on the wheel arches and door handles is noted as a point of contention.
• ☀️ A panoramic sunroof with metallic silver roof rails and color-matched mirror caps contribute to the premium look.
• 💡 The rear design features a redesigned taillight bar that spells out the Lexus name, with functional vents at the lower bumper.

Hybrid Powertrain and Performance

• ⚙️ Under the hood, the NX 350h boasts a 2.5L inline-4 engine paired with three electric motors, producing 239 horsepower and a direct-drive transmission.
• 🚀 It achieves 0-60 mph in 7.5 seconds and offers an estimated 41 MPG city / 37 MPG highway.
• 🔌 This hybrid system is contrasted with the Mazda CX-50 hybrid, which uses a single motor and mechanical all-wheel drive, while the NX uses electric motors for rear-wheel drive.
• 🛣️ The vehicle excels in comfortable highway cruising, with a well-tuned suspension and excellent sound deadening, making it ideal for long distances.

Interior Comfort and Technology

• 🛋️ The interior features a two-tone design with soft-touch materials, dark wood finish, and premium Mark Levinson sound system speaker grilles.
• 📱 A large 14-inch infotainment system runs intuitive Toyota/Lexus multimedia software, though seat controls for heating and ventilation are screen-dependent.
• 🕹️ Actual knobs are provided for dual-zone climate control, and the shifter is an electric control for the direct-drive transmission.
• 🔌 Wireless charging, USB-A, and USB-C ports are conveniently located, along with a dual-opening armrest.
• 💺 Seats are comfortable with good bolstering, and the driver benefits from a digital gauge cluster, head-up display, and three memory seat settings.

Rear Seat and Cargo Space

• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 The rear seat offers decent legroom for a compact SUV, though slightly less than the CX-50, and includes AC vents, three-stage heated seats, and two USB-C ports.
• 📦 The cargo area provides approximately 26 cubic feet of space, expandable to 46.9 cubic feet with the 60/40 split rear seats folded.
• 📦 Underfloor storage is available in the cargo area, suitable for road trip essentials.

Driving Dynamics and Comparison

• ⚖️ The NX 350h offers a smooth ride and comfortable experience, particularly on straight roads, with a superior hybrid system compared to the CX-50 hybrid.
• ⚠️ However, the vehicle exhibits significant body roll and wallow in twisty road driving, lacking confidence-inspiring handling.
• 🔊 A minor drawback is the constant engine drone during acceleration due to the direct-drive transmission lacking simulated shifting.
• 💰 Starting at around $53,000, the NX 350h is positioned as a luxury option, with the reviewed model priced near $56,000, prompting a comparison with the Mazda CX-50 hybrid on value and luxury.