Smallest Lexus SUV: Which Compact Lexus SUV Is Right for You?
What Is the Smallest Lexus SUV? An Overview
- The 2025 Lexus UX Hybrid is the smallest Lexus SUV; it's a five-seat compact crossover that measures 177 inches long.
- The 2025 Lexus NX, NX Hybrid, and NX Plug-In Hybrid are the second-smallest Lexus SUV models; they are five-seat compact crossovers that measure 183.5 inches long.
- The 2025 Lexus RZ is the third-smallest Lexus SUV; it's a compact all-electric crossover with five seats and 189.2 inches of length.
- The 192.5-inch long 2025 Lexus RX SUV sits in the middle of the lineup; every SUV above it is a three-row model and considerably larger.
Having learned that the Lexus UX Hybrid is the smallest Lexus SUV, you're probably interested in seeing the details. For a closer look at it and comparisons with other small Lexus SUV models like the NX Hybrid, see below or visit our showroom now at DARCARS Lexus of Silver Spring.
Smallest Lexus SUV to Biggest Lexus SUV: All Models In Order
Based on their body's footprint (length multiplied by width) and ignoring the side mirrors' width, here's the entire Lexus SUV lineup and how it grows in size:
- 2025 Lexus UX Hybrid – the smallest Lexus SUV: 177 inches long / 72.4 inches wide
- 2025 Lexus NX (and NX Hybrid / NX Plug-in Hybrid) – second smallest Lexus SUV: 183.5 inches long / 73.4 inches wide
- 2025 Lexus RZ – third smallest Lexus SUV: 189.2 inches long / 74.2 inches wide
- 2025 Lexus RX (and RX Hybrid / RX Plug-in Hybrid) – the middle-model Lexus SUV: 192.5 inches long / 75.6 inches wide
- 2025 Lexus GX – third biggest Lexus SUV: 197 inches long / 77.9 inches wide
- 2025 Lexus LX (and LX Hybrid) – second biggest Lexus SUV: 200.5 inches long / 78.3 inches wide
- 2025 Lexus TX (and TX Hybrid / TX Plug-in Hybrid) – the biggest Lexus SUV: 203.1-203.5 inches long / 78.3 inches wide
Smallest Lexus Model Comparison: Lexus UX vs. Lexus NX
The 2025 Lexus UX Hybrid is the smallest Lexus crossover, and previously, the non-hybrid (but now discontinued) Lexus UX also joined it in that spot. This is paralleled by the 2025 Lexus NX vs. NX Hybrid and NX Plug-In Hybrid: these models share the same exterior dimensions and are all considered the second-smallest Lexus SUVs – the hybrid drive systems are what set them apart.
That brings us to the main question: how do they compare? The answer can be found below in our UX vs. NX size and specs comparison chart:
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| 2025 Lexus UX Hybrid | 2025 Lexus NX / NX Hybrid / NX Plug-In Hybrid | |
|---|---|---|
| Size Classification | 5-seat compact crossover SUV | 5-seat compact crossover SUV |
| Wheelbase Length | 103.9 in | 105.9 in |
| Exterior Length | 177 in | 183.5 in |
| Exterior Width (W/O Mirrors) | 72.4 in | 73.4 in |
| Exterior Height | 60.6 in | 63.7-66.1 in |
| Turning Circle | 34.2 ft | 38 ft |
| Interior Legroom (Front / Rear) | 42.0 / 33.1 in | 41.0 / 36.1 in |
| Interior Headroom (Front / Rear W/O Moonroof) | 37.2 / 36.3-36.6 in | 37.1-38.3 / 38.1-38.5 in |
| Interior Shoulder Room (Front / Rear) | 55.0 / 52.9 in | 56.3 / 54.0 in |
| Interior Cargo Room (Behind Rear Seats) | 17.1 cu ft | 22.7 cu ft |
| Horsepower | 196 |
|
| 0-60 Time |
|
|
| Max. EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 45 / 41 / 431 | 41 / 37 / 392 |
| Max. EPA-Est. MPGe (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | N/A | 843 |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | Not recommended by OEM | 2,000 lbs4 |
| Starting Price Relative to Other Model | More Affordable | More Premium |
Something especially noteworthy is that the Lexus NX is the only Lexus mini SUV that can tow: the UX, the other mini SUV model, can not be used for trailering.
That right there can settle the UX vs. NX debate for some, but we still recommend visiting our Lexus dealership or your local dealer to compare the feeling, features, and style of these Lexus SUV models in person, especially since each one has a variety of trims and features to explore.
A Lexus Compact SUV Without Gasoline: Discover the Lexus RZ
Of the three smaller Lexus SUV models, two are gas-driven and can include hybrid technology, and one needs no gasoline, ever: the Lexus RZ.
As the third-smallest Lexus SUV, it boasts a 36.8-foot turning circle: that's 1.2 feet tighter than the smaller Lexus NX SUV's turning circle but is 2.6 feet wider compared to the UX.
This sharp maneuverability makes the RZ SUV's larger cargo volume of up to 34.9 cubic feet (12.2 cubic feet more than the NX) a lot more appealing, and so do the 5.0-second 0-60 mph time of some trims and uniquely natural luxuries like Tsuyasumi interior decor.
Go Bigger Than a Compact Lexus SUV: Experience the Lexus RX and More
While both of the mini Lexus SUV models, the UX and NX, are available as Lexus SUV hybrid models, they're not alone: the iconic Lexus RX offers a similar hybrid drive enhancement in a midsize SUV. As it is larger than the Lexus compact SUV hybrid models, it does return a bit lower efficiency specs but instead delivers a much more powerful and spacious drive.
You can also go even bigger with an off-road-ready GX, one of the Lexus SUVs with three rows, or aim for the largest Lexus model: the new and innovative TX.
Whether you want the biggest or smallest Lexus SUV, though, we can help – all the Lexus SUVs mentioned on this page can be found and experienced at DARCARS Lexus of Silver Spring, where you can also find lease deals that may cover your ideal model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Lexus NX or RX smaller?
The Lexus NX is smaller than the RX. Specifically, the Lexus NX is the second-smallest Lexus SUV model, while the Lexus RX is the fourth-smallest and balances the lineup. The Lexus RX, in detail, is 9 inches longer, 2.2 inches wider, and up to 1.6 inches taller than the Lexus NX, and also has a 6.3-inch longer wheelbase.
Is the Lexus NX smaller than the Acura RDX?
The Lexus NX is smaller than the Acura RDX. While the Lexus NX measures 183.5 inches long, 73.4 inches wide, and up to 66.1 inches tall, the Acura RDX is 187.4 inches long, 74.8 inches wide, and 65.7 inches tall. The NX SUV's smaller form and 0.9-foot tighter turning circle offer more maneuverability without sacrificing interior roominess.
Is the Lexus UX the same size as a RAV4?
The Lexus UX, the smallest Lexus SUV, is a slightly smaller size than the Toyota RAV4. The economical Toyota SUV measures 3.9 inches longer, 0.6 inches wider, and 6.4 inches taller than the Lexus luxury SUV. However, the Lexus UX has a full inch more front legroom and 4.6 inches more rear hip room than the Toyota RAV4.
1EPA-estimated 45 city/ 41 hwy/ 43 comb MPG rating for 2025 Lexus UX Hybrid 300h, 300h Premium, 300h F SPORT Design, 300h F SPORT Handling FWD. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
2EPA-estimated 41 city/ 37 hwy/ 39 comb MPG rating for 2025 Lexus NX 350h AWD, 350h Premium AWD, 350h Luxury AWD. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
3EPA-estimated 84 MPGe rating for 2025 Lexus NX 450h+ AWD, 450h+ F SPORT Handling AWD. MPGe is the EPA equivalent of gasoline fuel efficiency for electric operation. Use for comparison purposes only. Your MPGe/MPG will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
4Never tow beyond a vehicle's published towing capacities. Rating based on testing requirements prescribed in SAE J2807. Rating referenced in Owner's Manual may differ depending on testing standard used. Installation of accessories located near the rear bumper may require disabling or removing the kick sensor, and the sensor operation setting in your vehicle should be turned off. Follow all instructions in your Owner's Manual.