2026 Lexus NX vs 2026 Lexus TX

The 2026 Lexus NX maintained a fresh appearance despite being a few years into its second generation. Its design elements, such as the chunky fenders, integrated LED daytime running lights, and the controversial spindle grille, were well-integrated, offering a balanced look. While it wasn't as classically handsome as some competitors like the Genesis GV70 or Volvo XC60, it avoided the awkwardness seen in models like the Audi Q5 or BMW X3. The design team refined the existing recipe, ensuring that elements like the big grille and LED DRLs appeared intentional rather than added for visual impact. The NX's design was a testament to Lexus's ability to maintain brand equity through its styling choices, even if the base NX 350 didn't fully meet luxury expectations.

In contrast, the 2026 Lexus TX offered a more substantial presence with its large grille and sharp bi-LED headlights. The rear LED lighting spanned the vehicle's width, complemented by a small roof spoiler and available roof rails. Inside, the TX provided three interior colour options and ambient lighting, though the material quality fell short of luxury standards. The redesigned door handles, which reacted to pressure rather than pulling out, were a unique feature, though some might have preferred more attention to cabin detail. Despite these quirks, the TX's design aimed to offer a spacious and functional interior, with a focus on practicality over luxury.

The 2026 Lexus NX offered a range of powertrain options, but the standard setup in the NX 350 F Sport 3 was underwhelming. It featured a 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. While Lexus claimed a 7.0-second zero to 100 km/h time, the sluggish transmission made this difficult to achieve. The NX 350h hybrid and NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid models appeared more promising on paper, with the latter boasting 304 hp and a 6.1-second sprint to 100 km/h. However, the NX's indifferent chassis tuning and firm dampers resulted in an uncomfortable ride and unengaging driving experience, with lifeless steering further detracting from its appeal.

The 2026 Lexus TX 350 came with the same 275-horsepower 2.4-litre turbocharged engine, while the TX 500h hybrid increased output to 366 hp. The gas model used an eight-speed automatic transmission, whereas the hybrid featured a six-speed automatic, offering an alternative to the typical CVT in electrified powertrains. The TX 350's AWD system was electronically controlled, while the TX 500h employed Lexus's Direct4 AWD system for dynamic torque distribution. Drive modes included Normal, Eco, and Sport, with Sport mode enhancing throttle response. Although not a sports car, the TX 500h's adaptive suspension and rear steering improved handling, providing a more refined driving experience than the NX.

The 2026 Lexus NX offered competitive passenger space among compact luxury SUVs, though with some compromises. Rear-seat headroom was comparable to rivals, but legroom was slightly less generous. Front-seat legroom was on par with the Audi and Mercedes, though the Acura offered more. The front seats felt constrained, with limited headroom and hindered visibility due to the deep dashboard and large mirrors. Cargo space measured 643 litres with the rear seats up and 1,328 litres when folded, trailing behind competitors. The NX's towing capacity of 907 kilograms was also below class-leading figures.

In contrast, the 2026 Lexus TX excelled in interior space and functionality. It featured three-zone automatic climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and a spacious third row with a recline function. The second row offered captain's chairs or a bench seat, with easy access to the third row via a one-touch button. However, folding the second row flat required flipping several levers in a specific order. The TX boasted excellent cargo space, with 572 litres available with all seats up, expanding to 2,747 litres with all rear seats folded. It also had a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2026 Lexus NX came equipped with a 9.8-inch infotainment touchscreen as standard, with a 14-inch display available on higher packages. It featured a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and six USB ports. Higher packages included a head-up display and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. The NX's tech offerings required data connectivity packages, with features like cloud-based navigation and digital key functionality available via subscription. The voice recognition system was helpful but limited in functionality, and the instrument cluster, while efficient, had a somewhat dated appearance.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch touchscreen that was user-friendly and responsive, though some features lacked polish. Steering wheel buttons controlled adaptive cruise control and volume, but their multi-functional nature and lack of labels made them confusing. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues occasionally arose. The TX offered a range of subscription-based features, including in-dash navigation and a digital key. The back-up camera provided a clear view, and the available Advanced Park system handled parking duties. With seven USB ports and wireless charging, the TX ensured devices stayed powered on the go.

The 2026 Lexus NX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite, which included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane centring assist, and traffic sign recognition. Additional features like park assist and a 360-degree camera system were available. The NX received a 2025 Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though it missed the highest award due to an "Acceptable" score in one crash test. NHTSA ratings were not available at the time.

The 2026 Lexus TX also featured the Safety System+ 3.0, with similar driver-assist features. Proactive Driving Assist was included, though it was often turned off due to its random activation. The adaptive cruise control worked well once set up, though it was occasionally abrupt in stop-and-go traffic. The TX received a five-star crash safety rating from NHTSA and an "Acceptable" score from the IIHS in one crash test, with "Good" scores in other evaluations.