2021 Lexus RX vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2021 Lexus RX showcased a modern design aesthetic with its large grille, angular headlamps, and floating roof. It offered sumptuous seating with perforated leather upholstery, though the center console design felt dated. The RX was available in five variants, including the performance-focused RX F Sport and the extended-body RXL with a third row. Changes from the 2020 model, such as elongated headlights, remained, and the SUV featured standard 18-inch aluminum wheels and LED lighting. Optional upgrades included 20-inch wheels and triple-beam LED headlights. The interior boasted standard features like NuLuxe-trimmed seats and a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, with available enhancements like semi-aniline leather upholstery and heated seats.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid, positioned between the UX and RX, maintained a sharp-edged, streamlined profile. Despite its sporty appearance, the NX used an older platform shared with the previous-generation Toyota RAV4. The F Sport Black Line model featured a larger mesh grille and dark-finish 18-inch wheels. Inside, the design felt familiar, with a stepped center console and NuLuxe upholstery. The Black Line package added features like an F Sport heated steering wheel and aluminum pedals. However, material quality seemed more mainstream than luxury, with plastic switchgear and trim.

The 2021 Lexus RX was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX 350 FWD achieved 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, while AWD models saw slightly reduced efficiency. The RX Hybrid combined a V6 with three electric motors for 308 hp, offering 29-31 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. The RX handled well with AWD, though body roll was noticeable at higher speeds. The F Sport Handling package added adaptive suspension and sport seats. The RX reached 60 mph in 7.7-7.9 seconds, with a top speed of 124 mph.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing 194 horsepower. It achieved 0-60 mph in 9.1 seconds, with a top speed of 112 mph. The NX Hybrid prioritized fuel efficiency over performance, with a clunky transition between electric and gasoline power. The Black Line package improved handling with sport-tuned suspension, maintaining a comfortable ride. However, steering felt numb, and the NX lacked the tightness of newer models. Drive modes offered minimal impact on performance, with Eco mode further reducing acceleration.

The 2021 Lexus RX offered functional design with seating for five in two-row models and up to seven in three-row versions. Front and second-row seats provided ample space, while the third row was cramped. Cargo space was limited, with 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet with seats folded. Three-row models offered even less space. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited front and rear headroom, with the worst rear legroom in its class. Front seats were comfortable with 10-way power adjustment, and heated/ventilated options were available. Rear visibility was hindered by the sloping roofline and thick pillars. Cargo space was 16.8 cubic feet with seats up and 53.7 cubic feet folded, the lowest in its segment. A power-folding second row and power liftgate were optional.

The 2021 Lexus RX came with dual-zone climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen, and compatibility with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch screen, wireless charging, and a 15-speaker Mark Levinson system. The Remote Touch controller was less refined than competitors, and the RX lacked wireless smartphone integration.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured an 8-inch display with Bluetooth and smartphone compatibility, but no touchscreen. The Remote Touch Interface touchpad was difficult to use while driving. Analog controls were available for climate and audio. The base audio system was subpar, with a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system available on higher trims.

The 2021 Lexus RX received a Top Safety Pick from IIHS and four stars from NHTSA. It included 10 airbags, blind-spot monitoring, and Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 with features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. However, it lacked advanced hands-off driving tech.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and five stars from NHTSA. It came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including forward-collision warning and Lane Tracing Assist. Blind-spot monitoring was standard, but a 360-degree camera system was missing.