For 2026, the Lexus NX is a small, fancy SUV and you can have it with one of four engines: a 2.5L that isn’t turbocharged (the NX 250), a 2.4L with a turbo (the NX 350), a hybrid that recharges itself (the NX 350h), or a hybrid you can plug in (the NX 450h+). There are twelve different versions of the car overall, ranging from the basic ‘Base’ model to the ‘Luxury’. Lexus of Westminster has all of the 2026 NX models for people in Orange County to buy in Westminster, Long Beach, Irvine, and Anaheim.
Whether you drive to Long Beach for work, like a Saturday cruise on Pacific Coast Highway, or are going back and forth between Irvine and Anaheim, this guide will cover all twelve of the 2026 NX trims, the miles per gallon for each of the four engine types, how the NX compares to the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Audi Q5, and what you can anticipate during a visit to our showroom in Westminster.
Quick Facts: 2026 Lexus NX
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Body style | Compact luxury SUV |
| Seating capacity | 5 passengers (all trims) |
| Powertrain options | 4 (NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, NX 450h+) |
| Total trim configurations | 12 |
| NX 250 fuel economy | ~25–28 MPG combined |
| NX 350 fuel economy | ~24–27 MPG combined |
| NX 350h fuel economy | ~36–39 MPG combined |
| NX 450h+ efficiency | ~36 MPGe combined |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD (NX 250, NX 350h); AWD standard (NX 350, NX 450h+) |
| Starting MSRP | Contact Lexus of Westminster for current 2026 pricing |
Key takeaway: The 2026 NX 350h self-charging hybrid achieves approximately 36–39 MPG combined — among the strongest efficiency figures in the compact luxury SUV segment — with no plug-in routine required.
What Is the 2026 Lexus NX?
The 2026 Lexus NX is what Lexus calls a small, fancy sport utility vehicle. It’s a step down in size from the RX, and is designed to be a practical car for five people to use every day. The biggest thing about it is how many different engines you can get. In fact, it has a hybrid that recharges itself (the NX 350h), a hybrid you plug in (the NX 450h+), and two versions with a normal gasoline engine. For people in Orange County, this means you get a lot more electric options within just this one NX model than you’ll find with most other brands.
2026 Lexus NX Powertrain Options: Which One Is Right for You?
The most common question Westminster and Huntington Beach shoppers ask is: “Which NX powertrain should I choose?” Here is a direct comparison:
| Powertrain | Engine | Drivetrain | Est. Fuel Economy | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX 250 | 2.5L naturally aspirated 4-cyl | FWD or AWD | ~25–28 MPG combined | Buyers wanting an accessible entry into the NX lineup |
| NX 350 | 2.4L turbocharged 4-cyl | AWD standard | ~24–27 MPG combined | Buyers wanting spirited acceleration without electrification |
| NX 350h | 2.5L self-charging hybrid | FWD or AWD | ~36–39 MPG combined | Efficiency-focused buyers who prefer not to plug in |
| NX 450h+ | 2.5L plug-in hybrid (PHEV) | AWD standard | ~36 MPGe combined | Commuters who can charge overnight for EV-capable daily driving |
The NX 250 has a 2.5 litre four-cylinder engine that isn’t turbocharged, and you can choose between front wheel drive or all wheel drive. Its fuel economy is around 25 to 28 miles per gallon, so if you like Lexus quality and don’t need extra power or a battery to charge, it’s a good option.
The NX 350 swaps that engine for a 2.4 litre four-cylinder that is turbocharged, and all wheel drive comes as standard. You really can tell the difference in how it drives. It gives around 24 to 27 miles per gallon combined, but if you actually like driving on the 405 and don’t want a hybrid, this is the version to have.
Most people who buy an NX actually go for the NX 350h, which is a hybrid that charges its battery as you go. You’ll get approximately 36 to 39 miles per gallon combined, meaning a lot less time at the pump when you’re going from Anaheim to Newport Beach, and you don’t have to bother with plugging it in. It’s up to 40% more fuel efficient overall compared to the NX 350, and is priced similarly.
The NX 450h+ is a plug-in hybrid. You can drive it on electric only for your normal journeys (the drive between Cerritos and Long Beach is a good example), and then it will switch to hybrid when you go on longer trips. It offers about 36 MPGe combined, with the possibility of all-electric daily driving, and is the most economical NX you can get.
2026 Lexus NX Trim Levels
The 2026 NX lineup spans four powertrain families — NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+ — each available in Base, Premium, and Luxury grades, for twelve total trim configurations. This breadth gives Orange County shoppers more configuration flexibility than most competitors in the segment.
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Positioning |
|---|---|---|
| NX 250 | Contact dealer | Entry point into the 2026 NX lineup with naturally aspirated four-cylinder and FWD or AWD |
| NX 250 Premium | Contact dealer | Adds comfort and convenience features over the base NX 250 |
| NX 250 Luxury | Contact dealer | Upscale appointments for buyers prioritizing interior refinement and premium materials |
| NX 350 | Contact dealer | Turbocharged performance option with AWD standard for buyers wanting more power without electrification |
| NX 350 Premium | Contact dealer | Turbocharged powertrain paired with added features for the performance-minded luxury buyer |
| NX 350 Luxury | Contact dealer | Top non-electrified trim blending turbocharged performance with high-grade luxury appointments |
| NX 350h | Contact dealer | Self-charging hybrid delivering ~36–39 MPG combined for efficiency-focused buyers who prefer not to plug in |
| NX 350h Premium | Contact dealer | Hybrid with added convenience tech for buyers balancing fuel economy and feature content |
| NX 350h Luxury | Contact dealer | Premium hybrid trim for buyers wanting upscale appointments with strong fuel economy |
| NX 450h+ | Contact dealer | Plug-in hybrid for buyers seeking EV-capable daily commuting within a compact luxury SUV |
| NX 450h+ Premium | Contact dealer | PHEV with enhanced features for tech- and efficiency-focused luxury buyers |
| NX 450h+ Luxury | Contact dealer | Top-of-range plug-in hybrid combining maximum electrification benefit with full luxury appointments |
If you’re trading in your current vehicle, you can value your trade online before visiting — it speeds up the conversation at the showroom.
2026 Lexus NX vs. the Competition
The compact luxury SUV segment is fiercely contested. Here is how the 2026 NX compares to the three vehicles Westminster shoppers most often cross-shop:
| Feature | 2026 Lexus NX | 2026 BMW X3 | 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC | 2026 Audi Q5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Self-charging hybrid option | ✅ NX 350h (~36–39 MPG combined) | Limited | Limited | Limited |
| Plug-in hybrid option | ✅ NX 450h+ (~36 MPGe) | Available | ✅ Available | ✅ Available |
| Total NX-equivalent configurations | 12 | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| AWD standard on PHEV | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Lexus Safety System+ standard | ✅ | Varies | Varies | Varies |
2026 Lexus NX vs. 2026 BMW X3
The 2026 BMW X3 is much more focused on being fun to drive and has a broader selection of how much performance you want, including versions that have been upgraded by BMW’s M division. However, it doesn’t let you drive as far on electric power alone as the Lexus NX. Lexus provides a regular hybrid (the NX 350h, achieving approximately 36 to 39 miles per gallon overall) and a plug-in hybrid (the NX 450h+, which gets roughly 36 miles per gallon equivalent) on lots of different models.
People who are most concerned with good gas mileage, Lexus’s experience with hybrids, and cheaper bills over the years generally go for the NX. Those wanting a more exciting drive on the road, though, will likely choose the BMW.
2026 Lexus NX vs. 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC
When you’re deciding between a 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC and a Lexus NX, both are competing for someone who wants a luxurious car with a prestigious name. The GLC does well with its plug-in hybrid versions and has a very modern, high-tech interior. Lexus’s NX, on the other hand, is known for lasting a long time, has an infotainment system lots of people prefer, and is cheaper to begin with (particularly the NX 250). And if you’ve had a Lexus in the past, you’ll easily understand how things work with owning it and Lexus service is available all over Orange County.
2026 Lexus NX vs. 2026 Audi Q5
Most versions of the 2026 Audi Q5 automatically have Quattro all-wheel drive and the interior is beautifully made. Audi gives you a lot of choices in their mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions. Lexus’s hybrid options are better though, and the NX 350h specifically gets exceptionally good gas mileage for this type of vehicle. Also, Lexus Safety System+ is just as good as the systems Audi has to help the driver.
Driving the 2026 NX in Westminster and Across Orange County
Because Westminster is right where the 405 and 22 freeways intersect, the 2026 NX is a really good fit for the way people drive around Orange County. Especially the NX 350h hybrid. It gets around 36 to 39 miles per gallon combined, and for daily trips on the Garden Grove, Santa Ana, or Long Beach roads, that will noticeably cut your gas costs compared to a typical smaller SUV.
If you can charge it at home overnight, the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid can do most of your trips during the week using just electricity. And for weekends, it’s small enough to navigate Newport Beach’s narrow streets and shopping areas, all while having space for passengers and everything for the beach.
Lexus of Westminster is easy to get to from the main routes in Orange County if you are commuting from Irvine or are driving down from Anaheim. You should look at our hours and directions before you come to the dealership.
Why Buy Your 2026 Lexus NX from Lexus of Westminster
- Full 2026 NX lineup access. Multiple powertrain families available so you can compare trims in person — contact us to confirm current in-stock availability before your visit.
- Hybrid and PHEV specialist service. Our factory-trained technicians know the NX 350h and NX 450h+ systems inside and out. Schedule service online in under a minute.
- Convenient OC location. Near the 22 and 405 freeways, accessible from Newport Beach, Cerritos, and across Orange County.
- Parts and accessories under one roof. Browse parts and accessories and our team can handle the install.
- Ongoing ownership value. Visit our service page for current maintenance offers.
If a new NX isn’t quite the right fit, we also stock pre-owned vehicles and a certified pre-owned selection from Lexus’ L/Certified program.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 2026 Lexus NX?
The 2026 Lexus NX is a smaller, fancy SUV and you can get it with one of four engines. These are the naturally aspirated NX 250, the turbocharged NX 350, the NX 350h which charges its battery by itself (a self-charging hybrid) and the NX 450h+ which is a plug-in hybrid. There are twelve different versions of the car, ranging from the basic ‘Base’ model all the way up to ‘Luxury’. It has space for five people and either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, depending on the engine you choose.
What are the fuel economy figures for the 2026 Lexus NX?
For the 2026 NX, here’s how fuel economy breaks down by what makes it go: the NX 250 should get around 25 to 28 miles per gallon overall, the NX 350 about 24 to 27, the NX 350h (a hybrid that recharges itself) around 36 to 39, and the NX 450h+ approximately 36 miles per gallon equivalent overall. Looking at just the normal gasoline versions, the NX 350h hybrid gets the highest miles per gallon.
What is the price of the 2026 Lexus NX near Westminster, CA?
There are twelve different versions of the 2026 Lexus NX, from the simplest NX 250 to the really nice, plug-in hybrid NX 450h+ Luxury, and because of this, the price will change a lot depending on the specific model and what engine it has. Incentives and deals are always changing, so to get the actual price you’ll pay (including everything) for the NX you want, you should contact Lexus of Westminster. They can give you a quote just for your chosen trim.
What are the 2026 Lexus NX trim levels?
The 2026 NX is offered in four powertrain families — NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+ — each available in Base, Premium, and Luxury grades, totaling twelve configurations. For current MSRP on any specific trim, contact the Westminster sales team.
What is the difference between the NX 350h and the NX 450h+?
The NX 350h is a hybrid that charges itself as you drive, using the engine and capturing energy when you brake, so you don’t have to plug it in and it averages about 36 to 39 miles per gallon. The NX 450h+ is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV); you can use a normal electrical outlet to fill its battery and do short trips using only electricity, and then for longer journeys it will switch to being a standard hybrid. You can get all-wheel drive with either one, but it comes as a standard feature on the NX 450h+.
Can I lease a 2026 Lexus NX in Orange County?
Absolutely. Lexus of Westminster helps people who are eligible to get a car in Orange County – people in Westminster, Long Beach, Irvine, Anaheim and other cities – with both leasing and financing for the 2026 NX. How much your lease costs each month, the money factor, and the car’s final value at the end of the lease will all be based on the specific NX you choose and how good your credit is. For what’s currently available and a rough idea of your monthly payments, please contact our finance department.
Is the 2026 Lexus NX available as a hybrid near Westminster, CA?
Yes. Lexus of Westminster stocks the NX 350h self-charging hybrid (~36–39 MPG combined) and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid (~36 MPGe combined) alongside the gas-powered NX 250 and NX 350. Both hybrid trims are strong choices for Orange County commuters dealing with stop-and-go traffic.
What are current 2026 Lexus NX incentives and finance offers?
Incentives on the 2026 NX rotate regularly and may include APR programs, lease specials, loyalty bonuses, and conquest offers. Contact Lexus of Westminster for the most current offers available to Westminster, Huntington Beach, and Orange County shoppers.
Does the 2026 Lexus NX come with all-wheel drive?
AWD availability depends on powertrain. The NX 250 and NX 350h offer FWD or AWD as a configuration choice. The NX 350 and NX 450h+ come with AWD standard. For Orange County drivers who occasionally head toward mountain areas or want added grip on wet roads, AWD is worth considering.
How many people does the 2026 Lexus NX seat?
The 2026 Lexus NX seats five passengers across all twelve trims and powertrain configurations. The second row is designed for adult comfort, and cargo space behind it is competitive for the compact luxury SUV class.
How does the 2026 Lexus NX compare to the BMW X3?
The 2026 BMW X3 is designed for a sporty yet luxurious feel and has more different performance levels available. The 2026 Lexus NX does something else, providing customers with lots of choices of hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, and relying on Lexus being known for lasting a long time. Generally, if you want good gas mileage and a car that won’t be expensive to own in the long run, the NX is the one to get. But, if how the car feels to drive is most important, most people will prefer the X3.
Is the 2026 Lexus NX a good vehicle for Orange County commuters?
Yes, especially the hybrid trims. The NX 350h’s approximately 36–39 MPG combined is well-suited to stop-and-go traffic between Long Beach, Garden Grove, and Santa Ana. If your daily commute is short enough that EV-only mode covers most of it, the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid is an even better fit.
Where is Lexus of Westminster located?
We help Lexus drivers all over Orange County – people in Westminster, Long Beach, Irvine, Anaheim, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Cerritos, Santa Ana, and Garden Grove all come to us. Because we are close to the 22 and 405 freeways, it’s pretty easy to get to us from any part of the OC. You can find our specific address, and when we’re open, on the hours and directions page.
Can I service my 2026 Lexus NX at Lexus of Westminster?
Yes. Our service department is staffed with factory-trained technicians who specialize in Lexus vehicles, including the hybrid and plug-in hybrid systems in the NX 350h and NX 450h+. We use genuine Lexus parts and you can schedule an appointment online anytime.
What is the warranty on the 2026 Lexus NX?
Your 2026 Lexus NX will be protected by the usual Lexus limited warranty for a new car, and this does include the engine and transmission (the powertrain). If you go for an NX 350h or NX 450h+ model, you’ll also have the parts that make the hybrid system work covered for longer. Come to our dealership in Westminster and we’ll explain exactly how long all the different parts of your chosen NX are covered, and what is covered with each.
Can I trade in my current vehicle toward a 2026 Lexus NX?
Yes. Lexus of Westminster accepts trade-ins toward any new 2026 NX purchase or lease. You can get an instant trade estimate online before visiting, which reduces time at the dealership. We accept all makes and models and apply your trade equity directly toward the new NX.
Is the 2026 Lexus NX available now in Westminster?
The 2026 Lexus NX is now at Lexus of Westminster, but when you can get one depends on the specific version – how it’s equipped, what engine it has, the paint color and any extra features you choose. Hybrid models, the NX 350h and NX 450h+ in particular, are being snapped up fast in Orange County. To find out what we have on the lot right now or to order one exactly as you want it from the factory, give our sales people a call.
Ready to Drive the 2026 Lexus NX?
The best way to choose between powertrains is to drive them back-to-back — the difference between the turbocharged NX 350 and the smooth, efficient NX 350h hybrid is immediately apparent from the driver’s seat.
- Schedule a test drive at our Westminster showroom
- Check current 2026 NX availability across all twelve trims
- Contact our sales team for pricing, lease offers, and trade values
Coming from Long Beach, Irvine, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Anaheim, Cerritos, Santa Ana, Garden Grove or indeed any city in Orange County? At Lexus of Westminster, we’re all set to help you locate the perfect 2026 NX. If you have a brief question beforehand, contact us and we’ll respond to you today.