Definitely the RAV4 would suit me better in terms of less tech + regular tires, not to mention better mpg and a bigger rear seat. However, the ride quality isn't as good as the NX, it makes less power, the components in the drivetrain are not as good (look up videos by car care nut on youtube), but the ultimate deal breaker is seat comfort. I went to a dealer and sat in one and didn't even bother to test drive because I started to feel back pain just while browsing the interior. Actually even with the NX, the only seat that has an acceptable level of comfort for me is the Luxury (base, premium, and F sport don't work).

 

I hear you also. My ETA for my NX350h is in March also as a special order (modified the original incoming order with some changes). I exploring also at the same time to be 100% sure if it's wise to get RFT, smaller 2nd row, smaller cargo space and at a higher price point. Do you need all those tech? In my case, I already have an older 2019 RX in my case so space isn't a big thing.

What's luxury with less?

I test drove the NX350h (even drove it as a loaner car), Rav4 XSE and Limited. I felt the ride on the NX is better with the 240hp with better torquer electric motors than the Rav4 at 219HP with electric motors including more comfortable seats and a tab more quiet interior and with the LUX, the ML is very enjoyable. It probably is cheaper to maintain with the Rav4 hybrid given the dealer labor rates and parts are cheaper also. Toyota really right sized the Rav4 IMO and with non-RFT tires.

I have a long commute in each direction so I did prioritize comfort on my requirements. One of my friends, mentions it's definately a day and night difference with the ride and interior on the Lexus though.

Do you need the space? What's your requirements? Does RFT present a problem? I don't think I will need to change them due to nails that often. I heard @midcow3 mention changing all 4 tires if 1 tire is bad. Those RFTs are hard to find in some area and also around $300 each.

I can't justify spending $70K for a RX hybrid (only a tab larger) but it does have a spare tire. An ICE RX can be had around $55K in our area.

 

My prev car was a 2019 RDX. I was going to replace it with an NX 350h but because of low availability and dealer markup coupled with the fact that I felt there were several compromises (20” RFT was a big one with too much tech a close second), I ended up getting a 2023 RDX because I got a good deal. (My car karma is difficult, because I already had to get the transmission on the 2023 RDX replaced.).

I’m still lurking here learning about the car and reading people’s experience. The 12v issue is concerning. I’m hoping Lexus will offer regular tires and a spare when they update the NX next. I would really have liked to be in a hybrid for the great mpg plus it won’t have turbo lag.

 

I used to have Honda/Acura also. Too many issues. When the vehicle gets older, repairs are more $$$ and more often. I'm all Toyota/Lexus nowadays.

 

Yeah that’s why I didn’t want to hold on to the 2019. Truth be told I don’t think I would feel comfortable owning any car out of warranty these days because of the tech. Electronic failures will be expensive to fix and unlike mechanical failures they happen suddenly and randomly. But with a reliable car, should you decide to hold on to it, an extended warranty tends to be cheaper than for an unreliable car.

 

No vehicle is perfect. The big thing is the RFTs on the NX but many auto makers are heading towards no spares and RFTs due to cost, and weight. I don't believe in extended warranty since it doesn't cover bumper to bumper. The one thing that breaks isn't on the list then you are still stuck with the bill. Most Lexus and Toyota vehicles (not the branded models) are very reliable but no vehicle is perfect. Check Consumer Reports.

I sold the GS given the high cost of front brakes and rotors. GS eats front brakes every 20K miles esp in stop and go traffic. Keeping the RX for a while.

IMO, it's fine to research before purchasing any vehicle. Knowledge is always a good thing before making decisions.

Good Luck.

 

I sold my RAV4 Prime to get the NX-450h+. Totally agree with the better drivetrain on the NX. When not using EV, the R4P often felt underpowered and noisy. The ride and seat comfort on the NX is noticeably better. The adaptive cruise control and lane keep are also far better on the NX. Also, for some strange reason, the R4P had the cargo net hooks right behind the 2nd row seat, which is basically useless.

However, the R4P had some better features. The software design of the big screen was better, with a useful multi-window home screen and a home button. Also other small things like the mileage efficiency being automatically reset for each drive and rear seat warmers.

 

??

Interesting.

 

Big difference in RAV4 models. The RAV4 Hybrid limited is comfortable and quiet. also has JBL audio and a spare tire

YMMV,
MidCow3

 

I was aware of that so I tried a Limited.

 

I came so close to getting a RAV4 Limited before going with the NX. I think I would have been reasonably happy with it. Only issue with the RAV4 IMO is that they are EVERYWHERE (whether you consider that a more desirable or less desirable thing). I see another NX maybe once every few days (and half that time its a 1st gen). RAV4, every few seconds. Actually, I think its almost impossible to be driving on a city road and not see one at any given moment. A quick look around, you'll always see at least one if not 2 or 3 of them. We used to play the game "count the VW bugs" on long drives. On a 20 min drive play count the RAV4s instead, first one to 100...

 

I don't have a problem blending in with everyone especially if the car is a good one. These days the most common one around where I live is the Model Y. RAV4's are everywhere but when you try one after owning a luxury brand, it just doesn't feel that good. Even if you don't care about luxury appointments or power, the seat itself is quite uncomfortable. This is something I will never quite figure out -- in the 90's almost every car, including something as simple as civic, had comfy seats with decent padding even without lumbar. Now every seat feels like a bench with a leather/vinyl covering.

 

Did anyone change the RFTs to the conventional ones?

Probably lighter weight if not RFTs and a better ride but I'm not sure if there's lots of body roll.

 

I'm going off subject ... the RF's are a must have lately for me/wife. Rather take my chances with them....and definitely a have spare. The ride is subjective.

Our 2019 X3 has RF's and a (optional) spare. Spares should be mandatory.

 

Ditto ...Did the wheel bend?