I have a UX and NX reserved and both are arriving soon. Ideally I was set on the UX because I like how small it is, it’s actually the perfect size for me! But even on the highest trim available to me it doesn’t have a 360 camera.

So I’m thinking about the NX350h luxury trim with 360 camera, self park and 17 speakers. I just don’t like how big it is for me. Is a 360 camera worth it to upgrade to the bigger sized car?

The car will be a gift, so I’m not so much worried about the price difference, more so the size. I live in an urban city and parallel park about 3 days a week. Even though the NX is bigger, it's still 8 inches shorter in length than my current car. I never have passengers and do not plan on having children. I plan on keeping the car for a long time 10+ years (until it dies). So I thought maybe I should just go all out and get the car with more features? Is a 360 camera worth the size upgrade?

My current car is also my first car with no 360 camera and lots of scratches and a few fixed dents. Some car owners have mentioned that having a 360 camera has been helpful in avoiding messing up their car and just overall safety.

EDIT: Forgot to add that although the NX is the bigger option, it is still 8 inches shorter than my current car. The UX is 14.5 inches shorter, maybe I'm overvaluing the extra 6.5 inches. I think the NX might feel big to me initially as I'm coming from a sedan and the NX will be my first SUV, so it feels much bigger but I'll probably get used to it.

 

If you can swing it, do it! Great feature, I use it all the time. Have difficulty driving anything without that now. Just so much easier to back into anywhere. I think this should be mandatory in all vehicles.

BTW, the NX isn't really a big car. Yes, the UX is smaller, but it's also a lot lower. We moved from an RX to the NX of this generation. It's adequate, but I do miss the additional space in the RX. But again, it's personal choice. The deal breaker for me is definitely the 360 camera system, though.

 

Before the NX, I never had one and never needed it. Always parked without mishap even on much bigger vehicles. I made the mistake of actually paying attention to it, now I can't see myself ever not having it.

 

Exactly!

However, in your urban environment you may really enjoy the smaller UX. However, I would pretty much "require" the Panoramic View regardless of the size of the vehicle (and I know for a fact that my wife would ).

 

Forgot to add that the NX is 8 inches shorter than my current car while the UX is 14.5 inches shorter! Maybe I'm overvaluing the extra 6.5 inches to sacrifice the 360 camera and self parking for the NX?

 

The 360 cam is one of those options that once you have it, it becomes a must have in your next car. I bought the luxury trim mainly for the 360 cam, real leather seats, triple beam headlights and the ML audio upgrade. The ML I could probably do without, poor sound quality, but that would mean I have to custom order. The 360 cam is nice to have for parking, side cam for sidewalk curbs and front cam for straight in parking.

 

Would not buy the NX (or any vehicle) without it. Definite a Must-Have. You will appreciate each and every time you park or need it.

 

Agree with all the others that love their Panoramic view and how much it helps with parking, viewing front and back.

We also have an SC430 with none of the high tech so we definitely notice the difference.

What’s 6.5” anyway in the grand scheme of things?! — not that much more lengthwise and at least it’s not as long as your current sedan.

 

Yes, pano view is a must feature. I been upgrading all the cars for my family. Our first time experiencing was with 2025 NX350H. Ever since then, all the car I purchase I purposely look for it. No pano view, it is a deal breaker. Parking has been much easier. Beside that, you can select the mode to active whenever the car moving less than 10 miles—helpful for not hitting small short objects. I would suggest to test drive both cars—15 to 30 minutes if possible. Factor in horsepower, gas saving, and long term maintenance. Each engine/transmission has their own unique quirkiness. NX350H, NX350 V4 Turbo, legendary V6, all require and needed the core Toyota/Lexus maintenance schedule. However, each will need an extra attention. For instance, NX350H will require to check Hybrid battery cooling vent—there’s a filter in the bottom rear passenger seat. Filter doesn’t require to change all the time—just need to be free & clear of debris, so cool air can help the battery running efficiently. Happy shopping. Enjoy your Lexus.

 

Anyone from Pa.... Rydal...the bridge on Susquehanna Rd. I activate the camera shortly before the stop sign. That intersection is brutal with vehicles coming from the left/right. The camera makes a huge difference.

 

Ha, from Cheltenham living in Upper Dublin now. I know that intersection well!

 

The 360 Camera is wonderful BUT know that the NX is an SUV and handles very differently compared to the sedan you are currently driving as well as the UX. Your current car doesn't have a 360 camera and it's hard to miss what You don't have. If You don't foresee the need for the cargo capacity and rear seat comfort that the NX offers, then You might very much come to appreciate the agility offered by the UX given its size and the availability of Lexus's "intuitive parking assist".

 

Yes, the 360 camera when set to auto at low speeds and digital rear view mirror are game changers, lessens blind spots, allows for easier parking in tight parking spots, also allows you to lessen curb rash on your wheels. Although you still need to have old school situation awareness.

 

This is a gotta have in my opinion! These cars are very expensive to buy, they have all kinds of sensors located on back and front bumpers / facia that if damaged will cost thousands of dollars to fix. A simple bumper 'tap' might not end up being that cheap to repair. I am very grateful for these cameras as they come in especially handy when maneuvering around those pesky concrete columns in parking garages. There's always one that's in your way! These cameras and sensors provide excellent views and warning graphics on your centre screen warning you of being close to contacting something. The only drawback is the car will make tons of warning beeps at you while you're trying to sneak into a tight spot. The car will also hit the brakes on you if it feels you're gonna hit something so be prepared to be spooked by the brakes coming on strong! Remember though if in doubt get out and look to confirm. The images are not 100% accurate there's a little distortion in them I've learned which is ok, when it looks like you have no room left at all, you can go look and find that your maybe an inch or so away still. Which is a better safe than sorry situation.

As for the concern on overall size, a cell phone is about 3 inches wide or the width of your fist, add one to the front and other to the back and the car really isn't too much different in size at all.

 

I agree. I have it on my Nx+ and love it.