Toyota RAV4 vs Lexus NX

If you’re all set to cruise around Amherst, Manchester, or Derry, NH, then you’re going to need a capable crossover that hits the road with efficiency and style. We’re thinking of popular models like the 2021 Toyota RAV4 and the Lexus NX.

If these two SUVs have caught your eye, then you’re in the right place with this comparison from the team at Ira Toyota of Manchester. Keep reading to learn more about what each vehicle can offer your drives around town and then contact us to take a spin in your top pick!

Toyota RAV4 vs Lexus NX: Efficient Engineering

One thing we love about the 2021 Toyota RAV4 and the Lexus NX is that they both feature innovative, versatile, and efficient powertrain engineering. For example, they both let you choose between a front-wheel drivetrain (FWD) or a smart all-wheel drive (AWD) system.

They also each have a hybrid version available for drivers who really want to maximize fuel economy. Take a look at the table below to see how the Toyota RAV4 and the Lexus NX compare in their fuel economy ratings:

While both crossovers offer impressive specs, the Toyota appears to go farther between fill-ups than the Lexus. For the gas-powered models, this may be due in part to the transmission. The Lexus NX has a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 8-speed automatic transmission in the Toyota RAV4 uses its two extra gears to further optimize performance.

Toyota RAV4 vs Lexus NX: Modern Design Elements

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 and the Lexus NX are both designed for the modern driver. They’re both compact SUVs with two rows of seats that can bring up to five passengers along for the ride (including the driver). They also feature 60/40 split-folding rear seats that let you optimize your cabin space for passengers and cargo based on your needs.

The cabins are well-decorated, too, with a leather-wrapped and heated steering wheel available in both crossovers as well. Plus, they both have an available power moonroof that lights up the cabin with sunlight and fresh air.

You’ll get a few more opportunities to personalize the exterior of the Toyota RAV4, however. It offers a plethora of monotone options along with plenty of unique two-tone styes, some of which include:

• Lunar Rock
• Ruby Flare Pearl
• Blue Flame with Ice Edge
• Blueprint with Midnight Black Metallic  

The Lexus NX, on the other hand only has seven monotone color options for you to choose from. While there are some bold color options, there’s no comparable bright blues or unique army-inspired green. Additionally, without the two-toned paint options, drivers of the NX have fewer ways to express a style that’s uniquely theirs.

Toyota RAV4 vs Lexus NX: Exterior & Interior Measurements

Your next vehicle can’t just look great, though. Instead, you’ll need an SUV with the dimensions needed to amp up your explorations and create a spacious interior for your family.

Let’s start by looking at how the exterior measurements of the 2021 RAV4 and the NX differ:

As you can see, the Lexus NX is larger than the Toyota RAV4 overall. However, bigger is not always better. The more petite dimensions of the RAV4 enable this SUV to fit into smaller city parking spaces and weave through highway traffic with greater ease. A smaller construction will also help if you choose to venture off the paved path.

Additionally, the longer wheelbase of the RAV4 creates more stability, so whether you’re traveling over rocks or on solid ground, you’ll have a controlled trek.

Toyota RAV4 vs Lexus NX: The Space You Need

Despite the larger exterior of the NX, this SUV has a much smaller cabin to offer. Take a look at the difference in headroom: