It is not just American brands that are dominating the crossover market in the USA; the Japanese automakers are quite popular, too, with Toyota and the more prestigious Lexus SUV models selling like hotcakes. These utility-focused cruisers are great all-rounders, capable of cruising around town or venturing off-road when necessary. Lexus crossovers are slightly more luxurious than their more economical cousins from Toyota, though they share the same repertoire of high-tech features and rate just as well when put to review by safety organizations.
Pros
- Unmistakable styling
- Top-notch materials and build quality
- Spacious and elegant interiors
- Multiple hybrid options with excellent fuel economy
- Loads of comfort and convenience gadgets
- Superb safety ratings
Cons
- More expensive than some of the competition
- Not particularly fun to drive
- Trunk space is subpar on several
Lexus SUV and crossover models
There are a fair number of Lexus SUV and crossover models from which to choose. From compact to full size, they are stylishly adorned and well-appointed. Here is a quick breakdown of the lineup and different types of vehicles available within the brand’s stable.
- UX - The entry-level model is still relatively new to the lineup, replacing the old CT hatchback. Though small, it looks and feels incredible, so long as you are situated up front. The rear seat is cramped and the loading bay is smaller than we expect from the segment. The standard guise is rather disappointing, despite the high-quality interior, but the hybrid, with its more powerful and efficient power plant manages to keep the nameplate competitive.
- NX - Though it suffers from the same cramped trunk as some of its siblings, the compact is spacious for passengers. The base engine is a 235-horsepower four-pot, while the hybrid receives a more efficient but weaker 194-hp variant. A near-perfect safety record and the upscale cabin keep it popular, despite its shortcomings, which include an unfriendly infotainment system and inconvenient blind spots.
- RX - The recently refreshed midsize is among the top sellers in the US, which is not surprising considering its many strong points. These include the same upscale inside as its siblings, a comprehensive array of features, and a refined ride quality. For those that want to really pack the family in, It has a third row of seats, although it might have been better off without this, since there is not much space to spare in the back and it limits the trunk. It is the largest of the MHEV variants, as the rest of the range is restricted to gasoline powertrains.
- GX - While not the biggest car on the list, it does boast one of the best towing capacity of 6,500 lbs and comes with a 3rd row. The weak acceleration of a high-torque power plant is a drawback here, as is the rather poor fuel economy figures. Areas where it does shine include the many standard tech features, a comfortable cabin, and legitimate off-roading capabilities. Unfortunately, this mixed bag of pros and cons, combined with a very high starting MSRP hurt its popularity in the US.
- LX - The most capacious of the 7-seater options, it is also the priciest model in the range. This is warranted by the opulent styling, vast array of tech, and excellent off-roading abilities. The latter is courtesy of a competent powertrain and permanent 4x4 drivetrain, which differentiates it from the AWD competition. Nevertheless, it is far from perfect. The motor is extremely thirsty, and not all 7 seats are ideal for adults, since the cabin is a little cramped.
Lexus SUV price list
Below is the 2020 and 2021 Lexus SUV price table.
Model |
Power |
Engine |
Base Price |
Lexus RZ |
308 hp |
Electric |
TBC |
Lexus NX |
203 hp |
2.5L Inline-4 Gas |
$38,350 |
Lexus RX |
290 hp |
3.5L V6 Gas |
$45,920 |
Lexus GX |
301 hp |
4.6L V8 Gas |
$56,125 |
Lexus LX |
409 hp |
3.5L V6 Gas |
$86,900 |
Lexus UX |
169 hp |
2.0L Inline-4 Gas |
$33,450 |
Lexus NX Hybrid |
240 hp |
2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid |
$41,550 |
Lexus RX Hybrid |
259 hp |
3.5L V6 Hybrid |
$48,720 |
Lexus UX Hybrid |
181 hp |
2.0L Inline-4 Hybrid |
$35,750 |
FAQs
What is the best Lexus SUV to buy?
Where many automakers score higher with their larger offerings, the opposite is true for the premium division of Toyota. Its full-size nameplate earns the worst ranking, while the subcompact UX places highest within the Lexus SUV lineup. It has power to spare in MHEV guise, along with exceptional fuel economy and a fair degree of fun. However, it lacks the spaciousness that makes the segment so popular among those seeking maximum bang for their buck.
Which is the cheapest option?
Bearing the lowest price tag, the entry-point to the range is the UX. Purchased new in its base guise, it will cost around $33,000, while the electrically assisted alternative goes for around $35k. If a new Lexus SUV is too expensive for your budget, perhaps try to find a used model for sale in your area or online. Thanks to their superior dependability, a fair amount of mileage does not adversely affect the value proposition.
Which SUV is better, Audi or Lexus?
Both are premium brands, but Audi has been around for longer, and therefore has quite a bit more experience when it comes to meeting consumer demands. Many feel that the Germans are more able to combine the disparate factors of high quality, space for passengers and stuff, and some extra sport appeal into their vehicles. A prime example is the Q5 midsize crossover, which handily beats its Japanese competition on every front.
Be sure to take a look at the in-depth Lexus SUV reviews for more detailed specs, pricing, pictures, and videos, along with comparisons against direct rivals.