2021 Lexus NX vs. Its Competition

2021 Lexus NX image
Martin Padgett Martin Padgett Editorial Director

The NX is smaller than its German and Japanese rivals, though it’s bigger than those makers’ pint-size SUVs.

For some buyers, it may be the ideal recipe.

The Mercedes GLC has more design flair and can be had with healthy AMG power for a hefty price.

The BMW X3 is an appealing, low-stress crossover with good features and strong turbocharged engines.

The Jaguar E-Pace is small but has an upmarket feel that appeals, and its styling is top-notch.

Infiniti’s QX50 has a high-tech engine, but it feels like it’s playing catch up with other luxury brands.

We like the Acura RDX for its impressive dynamics, but its user interface is also complicated.

2021 Lexus NX image2021 Lexus NX
Browse Used Listings		2021 Acura RDX image2021 Acura RDX
Browse Used Listings		2021 BMW X3 image2021 BMW X3
Browse Used Listings		2021 INFINITI QX50 image2021 INFINITI QX50
Browse Used Listings		2020 Jaguar E-Pace image2020 Jaguar E-Pace
Browse Used Listings		2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC Class image2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC Class
Browse Used Listings
Quick Specs
6.5
The dramatic shape of the 2021 Lexus NX have stayed fresh—and so has its hybrid mileage.
6.7
The 2021 Acura RDX satisfies sport-sedan drivers and crossover needers alike with strong performance and scads of space.
7.3
The 2021 BMW X3 is a do-all small crossover loaded with luxury, technology, and usability, with a dash of sporty personality.
6.3
The 2021 Infiniti QX50 is a tech-forward crossover SUV with a plush interior that nonetheless can feel like a wallflower.
6.4
The 2020 Jaguar E-Pace is a city-sized luxury SUV that’s stylish and fun to drive, but not without faults.
7.0
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class is comfortable and quiet, with few rivals in among small luxury crossovers.
MSRP From     
$37,610$38,400$43,000$38,050$39,950$42,500
Gas Mileage     
22 MPG City / 30 MPG Hwy21 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy14 MPG City / 29 MPG Hwy22 MPG City / 29 MPG Hwy21 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy16 MPG City / 29 MPG Hwy
Engine     
Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
EPA Class     
Small SUV 2WDSmall SUV 2WDSmall SUV 2WDSmall SUV 2WDSmall SUV 4WDSmall SUV 2WD
Style Name     
NX 300 FWDFWDsDrive30i Sports Activity VehiclePURE FWDP250 AWDGLC 300 SUV
Drivetrain     
Front Wheel DriveFront Wheel DriveRear Wheel DriveFront Wheel DriveAll Wheel DriveRear Wheel Drive
Passenger Capacity     
555555
Passenger Doors     
N/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/A
Body Style     
Sport UtilitySport UtilitySports Activity VehicleSport UtilitySport UtilitySport Utility
Transmission     
Automatic w/ODAutomatic w/ODAutomatic w/ODCVT w/ODAutomatic w/ODAutomatic w/OD
Detailed Spec Comparison
 2021 Lexus NX vs. 2021 Acura RDX2021 Lexus NX vs. 2021 BMW X32021 Lexus NX vs. 2021 INFINITI QX502021 Lexus NX vs. 2020 Jaguar E-Pace2021 Lexus NX vs. 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC Class