Comparison - Lexus NX 300h Base Hybrid - vs - Ford Explorer Limited 2016

The 2015 Lexus NX Hybrid has a score of 8.3 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 24 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.

Reviewers say the 2015 Lexus NX Hybrid’s standard four-cylinder engine, electric motor and automatic transmission don’t make it feel particularly fast, although some say that it offers swift acceleration from a stop.

The NX gets outstanding fuel economy for the class, earning an EPA-estimated 35/31 mpg city/highway. Some test drivers like the NX 300h's poised handling, but others say that there is quite a bit of body lean in turns and the ride is more tuned for comfort over bumpy roads than agility through fast corners

The 2015 Lexus NX 300h features a handsome, intelligently built cabin, according to critics. While some think that the NX hybrid’s faux metal trim looks tawdry, most appreciate the high-end materials used elsewhere in the car. Critics report that the front seats are comfortable and roomy, and the rear seats provide ample head- and legroom. The NX Hybrid's cargo space is a bit low for the class.

"The NX300h deserves to be a strong contender in the compact luxury crossover segment." -- AutoWeek

"In other words, if you're single or a couple without kids, the 2015 Lexus NX 300h is a new compelling entry in a segment admittedly filled with other compelling entries. If your priority is to find the most fuel-efficient of those, though, your choice might have become a lot easier." -- Edmunds

Pros
Excellent fuel economy for the class

Cons
Slow acceleration
Limited cargo space
Regenerative brakes don't operate smoothly

The 2015 Lexus NX 300h is an all-new model

The 2015 Lexus NX 300h hybrid is a distinctive entry in the compact luxury crossover segment, boasting excellent fuel economy, impeccable cabin quality, eye-catching styling and a surprisingly sporty driving experience.

Not only is there an abundance of compact luxury crossovers on the market now, it's hard to pick one we wouldn't recommend. It also just got a bit harder, thanks to Lexus and its entry with the generally impressive all-new NX. However, while the regular turbocharged version struggles to stand out appreciably from its rivals when it comes to fuel economy and performance, the 2015 Lexus NX 300h hybrid version certainly does.

Perhaps to no one's surprise, the company that is almost synonymous with luxury hybrids has produced by far the most fuel-efficient luxury compact crossover. Through its combination of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and multiple electric motors powered by a nickel-metal hydride battery pack, the NX 300h is capable of returning a Lexus-estimated 32 mpg combined with all-wheel drive. The only other hybrid in the segment ? the Audi Q5 ? manages 26 mpg combined, while diesel-powered entries (the other fuel-efficient alternative) are in that same ballpark. This fuel economy advantage does come with a trade-off, however. The NX 300h is one of the slowest vehicles in its class -- alternatively fueled or otherwise.

Pros
Class-best fuel economy
Generous backseat room for the segment
Impeccable cabin construction
Copious high-tech features.

Cons
Small cargo capacity
Pokey acceleration
Potentially distracting Remote Touch interface.