2025 Lexus NX 350h vs 2025 BMW X3

Lexus India has launched the updated 2025 NX 350h, a refined version of its luxury hybrid SUV, with prices starting at ₹68.02 lakh (ex-showroom). 

It comes in four variants - Exquisite (₹68.92 lakh), Overtrail (₹71.88 lakh), Luxury (₹72.79 lakh), and F-Sport (₹74.98 lakh). Apart from introducing two new colors (Radiant Red and White Nova), Lexus has also improved the sound insulation and added a new and denser AC filter, energy-efficient climate control, and Uphill Assist Control. The SUV retains its 2.5-liter petrol-hybrid engine.

The new NX 350h competes in India’s mid-size luxury SUV segment, facing the toughest competition from the recently launched 2025 BMW X3, priced from ₹75.80 lakh. While the Lexus focuses on hybrid efficiency and luxury, the BMW leans toward dynamic performance and spaciousness.

 Below, we compare the two across design, features, practicality, powertrains, fuel economy, and pricing to help you decide which one suits your needs.

Features

The new NX 350h enhances cabin comfort with improved sound insulation, a new AC filter for better air quality, and energy-efficient climate control. It features a 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a panoramic sunroof, 64-color ambient lighting, and the new Uphill Assist Control. Safety includes Lexus Safety System+ with lane departure and pre-collision alerts.

The BMW X3 offers a bigger 14.9-inch curved display, dynamic lighting bars, vegan upholstery, and BMW Digital Key Plus. It offers more advanced driver aids, such as Active Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and Parking Assistant Plus with a 360-degree camera, making it a feature-loaded choice.

Practicality

The X3’s larger dimensions provide superior practicality, with extended rear legroom for three passengers and a boot capacity of 550-570 liters (expandable to 1,600 liters). Its 210 mm ground clearance suits India’s varied roads. The NX 350h, more compact, offers a 520-liter boot (expandable up to 1,327 liters) and 195 mm ground clearance, suitable for urban use but less spacious for families.

Powertrains

The NX 350h carries over its 2.5-liter four-cylinder petrol-hybrid, delivering 240 bhp and 239 Nm, mated to an e-CVT with all-wheel drive, prioritizing smooth and efficient performance. 

The BMW X3 offers a 2.0-liter turbo-petrol (194-255 bhp with mild-hybrid tech) and a 2.0-liter diesel, both with 8-speed automatics and xDrive AWD, while the M50 variant boasts a 3.0-liter inline-six petrol (up to 374 bhp) for enthusiasts. A major advantage the NX 350h enjoys over the X3 is its E20 Petrol compliance.

The NX 350h trumps the X3 with a claimed mileage of 20.26 km/l, ideal for cost-conscious buyers in urban and highway scenarios. The X3 petrol delivers 13.38 km/l, while the diesel delivers a higher 17.86 km/l.

Prices and Recommendations

The NX 350h ranges from ₹68.02 lakh to ₹74.98 lakh, offering a lower entry point. The X3 starts at ₹75.80 lakh, with its high-end, performance-oriented variants like the M50 exceeding ₹90 lakh.

The Lexus NX 350h might be for you if you value bulletproof reliability, comfort, fuel efficiency, a quieter cabin, and want all of this at a lower price point with a convenient and premium driving experience. For those seeking more space, more powertrain options, and an overall engaging driving experience, the BMW X3 is the ideal pick.