VS
At a Glance
Power
275hp @ 6000
265hp @ 6000
Torque
317lb-ft @ 1700
310lb-ft @ 1700
Fuel
24 mpg est.
24 mpg est.
Towing
2000lbs
5000lbs
Engine
2.4 L/146ci
2.4 L/146ci
Choosing between the Lexus NX and the Toyota Highlander is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Lexus NX delivers 275hp @ 6000 while the Toyota Highlander produces 265hp @ 6000. On fuel, the NX returns 24 mpg est. while the Highlander uses 24 mpg est. — important in a market where fuel prices change monthly. Pricing starts at $51,890 for the NX and $50,025 for the Highlander. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Specification
Lexus NXNX 350 Luxury AWD 2026 - From $51,890
Toyota HighlanderLimited AWD (Natl) 2026 - From $50,025
Performance
Power Output (hp)
275hp @ 6000
265hp @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft)
317lb-ft @ 1700
310lb-ft @ 1700
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.4 L/146ci
2.4 L/146ci
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
8
8
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy (Combined, est.)
24 mpg est.
24 mpg est.
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
21mpg
21 (Est)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
28mpg
28 (Est)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
14.5gal
17.9gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
183.5in
194.9in
Width (in)
73.4in
76in
Height (in)
66.1in
68.1in
Wheelbase (in)
105.9in
112.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4035lbs
4453lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
2000lbs
5000lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
—
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
—
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Toyota Highlander
2 / 4 categories
Performance
NX
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Highlander
Practicality
Highlander
Pros & Cons
Lexus NX
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Toyota Highlander
Lower starting price ($50,025)
Higher towing capacity (5000lbs)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more fuel efficient, the NX or Highlander?
The NX gets 24 mpg est. and the Highlander gets 24 mpg est. on the combined cycle. The Highlander is the more fuel-efficient choice. In real-world conditions with a mix of highway and urban driving, actual figures will be slightly higher.
Which has more power, the NX or Highlander?
The NX produces 275hp @ 6000 and 317lb-ft @ 1700 of torque while the Highlander delivers 265hp @ 6000 and 310lb-ft @ 1700 of torque. The NX is the more powerful option.
What is the price difference between the NX and Highlander?
The NX starts from $51,890 and the Highlander from $50,025. The Highlander is cheaper by $1,865 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the NX or Highlander?
The NX has a braked towing capacity of 2000lbs and the Highlander can tow 5000lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the NX or the Highlander?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.