A Smarter, Calmer Way to Drive
The 2026 Lexus NX 350h F SPORT 3 enters the luxury compact SUV segment with a sharpened focus on technology, hybrid efficiency, and premium comfort. As one of Lexus’ bestselling models, the NX has built a reputation for refinement, quiet cabin quality, and class-leading driver assistance. For 2026, the NX 350h carries forward those strengths while adding more premium features through the all-new F SPORT 3 package—an upgrade that can cost just under $14,000 depending on market. And while the NX still isn’t perfect, especially in rear-seat and cargo flexibility, the overall driving experience remains one of the most balanced offerings in the segment.
Design & Pricing
Pricing plays a major role in the story. In Canada, the 2026 Lexus NX 350h starts just above $61,000 with AWD standard. In the U.S., pricing begins around $45,400 for FWD, with AWD optional. These figures position the NX competitively against rivals like the BMW X2 and Volvo XC40 Black Edition. But to access true Lexus-level luxury—premium seats, advanced tech, sporty exterior upgrades—you need to step up to the F SPORT 3 package. And truthfully, those enhancements completely reshape the NX experience.
Inside the cabin, the F SPORT 3 package transforms the NX 350h from a well-equipped compact SUV into a high-touch luxury environment. Features include a 14-inch HD touchscreen, a Digital Rearview Mirror with washer, an upgraded Panoramic View Monitor, enhanced driver memory seating, a sport-focused 3-spoke steering wheel, NuLuxe F SPORT bucket seats, and improved connected services. Lexus excels in these areas, and it shows. The interior is intuitive, upscale, and incredibly quiet—three reasons the NX continues to outperform many competitors in real-world daily driving.
Performance & Fuel Economy
Performance in the NX 350h comes from a 2.5L hybrid-electric 4-cylinder engine paired with an eCVT, producing 240 horsepower. In Sport+ mode the SUV responds quickly, though drivers wanting stronger acceleration may prefer the NX 350 gas model with its 275 horsepower output. Still, the hybrid’s biggest advantage isn’t speed—it’s long-term savings.
The NX 350 gas AWD averages 9.7L/100km or 24 MPG, while the NX 350h delivers 6.0L/100km or 39 MPG. That translates into over $500 in fuel savings per year, or more than $2,000 throughout a typical lease or finance term, making the hybrid a standout choice as fuel prices continue to climb.
Driver Assisted Technology
Safety is another major win for the NX. Lexus Safety System 3.0+ comes standard across all trims, offering Automatic High-Beam Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management, Road Sign Assist, Pre-Collision Detection with pedestrian and cyclist detection, Blind-Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Support, and more. Step into the F SPORT 3 package, and buyers also gain features like Intuitive Parking Assist with Auto Braking, a large Head-Up Display, and the Digital Rearview Mirror. Lexus consistently gets safety and technology right, and this model reinforces that strength.
Towing, Cargo Space & More
Cargo space and towing capability remain practical but not class-leading. The NX 350h offers 643 litres (22.7 cu.ft.) with seats upright and 1,328 litres (46.9 cu.ft.) with the seats folded, positioning it below the Acura ADX but ahead of options like the Alfa Romeo Tonale. Towing capacity, at 2,000 lbs when properly equipped, is competitive for the hybrid class. The NX rides on run-flat tires, meaning no spare is included, but 24-hour roadside assistance is standard. My impression remains consistent: cargo space and rear passenger comfort continue to be areas where many compact luxury SUVs fall short, and the NX is no exception.
Interior Rear Comfort
Rear passenger room is comfortable for a small family, though not spacious. At 5’3”, I fit without issue. With the Executive Package or F SPORT 3 package, rear passengers enjoy heated outboard seats and improved connectivity options, giving the second row a more premium feel, even if legroom isn’t class-leading.
Final Impressions
Where the NX 350h truly excels is in its everyday usability. Its quiet cabin, smooth ride, tight turning radius, excellent driver-assist tech, hybrid efficiency, and premium connectivity make it one of the most livable luxury SUVs available today. These strengths shine through in real-world driving more than in spec sheets—something Lexus has always understood well. As I often say in my final impressions, Lexus consistently gets a lot right: driver-assistance, noise quality, fuel economy, and maneuverability remain standout strengths.
For buyers who prioritize comfort, technology, and long-term value, the 2026 Lexus NX 350h F SPORT 3 is a well-rounded and highly refined choice. If cargo room or maximum power rank highest on your list, other models may better meet those needs.
But if you’re purchasing based on day-to-day livability, the NX 350h remains one of the smartest, calmest luxury SUVs you can buy today. In the end, pricing truly depends on your desires—choose the right package for your lifestyle, and the NX 350h becomes a remarkably balanced companion on any road.
IMAGES: AutomotiveWoman (Juliana)
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