What is the best Lexus SUV?
Lexus offers a wide range of SUV models in their range, but which is the right one for you? Read our guide to find out more about the best options available
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Lexus is known for building premium, high-quality cars that are durable and long-lasting.
Most of its models feature advanced hybrid tech, and those that don’t are electric-only, so they also appeal to the environmentally conscious.
SUVs are typically less efficient than hatchbacks because they’re heavier and less aerodynamic, but the Lexus SUV range tackles this with clever eco-friendly powertrains.
If you’re looking for used Lexus SUVs, you’ll notice that there are lots of Lexus SUV models to pick from.
Read about them below to understand what makes them different and to learn about some of their key selling points.
What makes the Lexus LBX a good crossover?
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Introduced in late 2023, the LBX is Lexus’s newest model as well as its smallest. It’s more modern-looking than other Lexus models and previews a new styling direction for the brand, but there are still some familiar features like the full-length rear lightbar.
Being a much newer model, its 1.5-litre petrol engine promises world-class thermal efficiency and the battery promises better power density.
All in all, it’s a hybrid system that should deliver consistently high mpg figures.
The interior is also more minimalist compared to other Lexus models, and most of the controls revolve around a centrally mounted 9.8-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
There’s even an app for the car that can become a digital key, saving you from having to carry around your keys all day, but it requires an active subscription.
Front- and four-wheel-drive variants are available, but boot space takes a hit for the latter (402 vs. 317 litres).
Both are designed to feel nimble and responsive, and all specifications come with high levels of car tech.
Should I buy a Lexus UX SUV?
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The Lexus UX is a well-thought-out crossover that bridges the gap between a regular family hatchback and a larger SUV, making it a versatile and practical option for those with limited space, like city dwellers.
There are two variants to pick from – the regular hybrid uses a 2.0-litre petrol engine to deliver around 50mpg and is available in front- or all-wheel-drive formats.
There’s also an electric model that should be able to do around 270 miles between charges, which is the same as a mid-spec and similarly-sized Volkswagen ID.3.
Both offer a smooth and responsive driving experience, and being a Lexus, there’s a clear emphasis on comfort.
However, because it’s one of the brand’s smaller and more affordable options, it targets younger drivers with a slightly more engaging handling setup than some of the brand’s bigger SUVs.
Is the Lexus NX a good SUV?
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There have been two iterations of the NX, and while the newer model offers more luxury and a higher-quality feel, both feel very premium and are worthy contenders to something like a BMW X3.
The well-appointed cabin features a selection of physical buttons and an easy-to-use infotainment system, but the newer models’ interior looks a little less cluttered if minimalism is more your thing.
All versions are hybrid, but it’s only post-2021 models that come with the option of a plug-in hybrid setup which Lexus says can do around 40 miles of emission-free motoring – and at up to motorway speeds, too.
While it may not be as popular as some of its key rivals, Lexus has a reputation for building reliable cars and the NX has proven to be an extremely dependable model, helping to cut the cost of ownership.
Is the RX the best in the Lexus SUV range?
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It may be a hybrid, but the RX places a big emphasis on luxury and comfort, which is why early models are powered by punchy V6 engines. Newer models use smaller 2.0-litre engines, but they’re just as refined.
It’s the brand’s biggest and most expensive SUV, so it’s packed with lots of features that the other smaller models don’t get.
The RX comes loaded with safety kit, leading it to a full five-star Euro NCAP rating and high scores in all assessment categories.
You can even get a seven-seater version, badged RX L, but the rearmost seats are best kept for children.
Another popular variant is the newer plug-in hybrid, recognisable by the + after the model number, for example RX 450h+.
Why is the Lexus RZ SUV right for me?
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In a world where a lot of buyers want electric SUVs, Lexus’s RZ makes a lot of sense. It’s substantially bigger than the electric UX, but it’s not too big that it’s awkward to manoeuvre in tight car parks.
It shares a lot of parts with the Toyota bZ4X, including the 71.4kWh battery that promises around 245 miles.
The two motors produce 313hp and make the RZ an all-wheel-drive model – there’s no option to buy a front-wheel-drive variant like the bZ4X.
A huge 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a second digital driver’s display and a heads-up display are all angled slightly toward the driver, which is meant to reduce distractions and make driving safer.