Lexus NX 62·Lexus RX 63on the MotiveGrid Score·Lexus NX about $3,270 less over 5 years
The verdict
The 2026 Lexus NX is the cheaper one to own — roughly $3,270 less over five years, thanks to cheaper insurance. The Lexus RX counters with more towing capacity (3,500 vs 2,000 lbs) and more cargo room (29.6 vs 22.7 cu ft).
Go with the Lexus NX for the better long-term value; consider the Lexus RX if you prioritize more towing capacity and more cargo space.
Last updated July 2026 · National-average estimates
Lexus NX vs. Lexus RX
MotiveGrid scores, key specs, and five-year cost comparison: 2026 Lexus NX versus 2026 Lexus RX.
Metric
Lexus NX
Lexus RX
MotiveGrid Score
62
63
Cost of Ownership
59
60
Powertrain
65
73
Driver Assistance
32
32
Livability
38
42
Safety
78
72
5-Year Cost to Own
$58,087
$61,357
Depreciation (5-yr)
$21,337
$18,522
Fuel / Energy (5-yr)
$8,339
$9,621
Insurance (5-yr)
$15,735
$18,595
Maintenance (5-yr)
$3,095
$3,095
Tires (5-yr)
$1,750
$2,150
Financing (5-yr)
$6,646
$8,008
Registration (5-yr)
$1,185
$1,365
Starting Price
$44,175
$53,225
Horsepower
240 hp
246 hp
MPG (combined)
40 mpg
36 mpg
Cargo volume
22.7 cu ft
29.6 cu ft
Seating
5
5
Towing capacity
2,000 lbs
3,500 lbs
Drivetrain
FWD
AWD
Hybrid
2026$44,175
MSRP
$44,175
Mo · 5yr
$968
$58,087 / 5 years
Best for long-term savings
Hybrid
2026$53,225
MSRP
$53,225
Mo · 5yr
$1,023
$61,357 / 5 years
Best for comfort & features
VS
01 · The MotiveGrid Score
Five measured pillars, weighted into one score.
Cost, Powertrain, Driver Assistance, Livability, and Safety — each scored against its class, then combined into a single MotiveGrid Score. Built by our engineering team and benchmarked against independent sources like NHTSA, IIHS, and CarEdge. How it’s calculated →
Lexus RX scores higher overall.
Lexus NX
0
/ 100
Lexus RX
0
/ 100
CostFive-year all-in cost to own, benchmarked against the class median.
NX
59
RX
60
Winner: RX
$3,270 cheaper / 5 yrs
Strong projected resale value▲
PowertrainEnergy efficiency paired with long-term ownership confidence.
NX
65
RX
73
Winner: RX
+8 pts
Driver AssistHighway driving support, parking convenience, and hands-free automation.
NX
32
RX
32
Evenly matched
LivabilityPassenger space, cargo room, and everyday maneuverability.
NX
38
RX
42
Winner: RX
+4 pts
SafetyCrash-test protection plus standard crash-avoidance features.
Lexus NX is the better pick for long-term ownership — about $3,270 cheaper over 5 years with stronger fundamentals on running cost.
Lexus RX still wins if your priority is best for comfort & features.
Daily commuter
Lexus NX
Lowest energy cost per mile
Budget-focused
Lexus NX
Cheapest to own across 5 years
Family hauler
Lexus RX
More cargo room
Highway driver
Lexus NX
Better adaptive cruise + lane keep
City driver
Lexus NX
Easiest to park and maneuver in tight spots
03
Cost of Ownership
Monthly running costs — national baseline.
Adjust for your situation
State
Miles/yr15,000
Loan rate7%
Down payment20%
Lexus NX
Monthly · 5-Year avg
$968
$58,087 total / 5 years
Total · monthly$968/mo
Lexus RX
Monthly · 5-Year avg
$1,023
$61,357 total / 5 years
Total · monthly$1,023/mo
04
Frequently asked questions
Lexus NX comes out about $3,270 cheaper over 5 years on running costs (depreciation, fuel/energy, insurance, maintenance, financing). The gap shifts with your state, annual miles, and loan rate — use the "Adjust for your situation" panel above.
