2026 LEXUS NX VS. LINCOLN CORSAIR VS ACURA RDX
The dynamic Lexus NX boasts cutting-edge technology features that make you feel like you’re living in the future. At the same time, it’s an even more refined version of the Lexus SUV concept, complete with the comfort and dynamics you have come to expect from the brand. The second generation of the Lexus NX rides on an improved platform and comes with an advanced new touchscreen infotainment system and hybrid powertrain options that make it an attractive choice for SUV buyers. See how the Lexus NX compares to its peers, and you’ll quickly learn why these changes are important - and why choosing the Lexus NX over its competition is such an easy decision.
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2026 Lexus NX 350 AWD |
VS. |
2026 Lincoln Corsair |
2026 Acura RDX Base SH-AWD |
| $46,120 | Base MSRP* | $41,480 | $46,450 |
| 275 HP / 317 TQ ✓ | Horsepower / Torque | 250 HP / 280 TQ | 272 HP / 280 TQ |
| 21 | City MPG | 21 | 21 |
| 28 | Highway MPG | 28 | 27 |
| 24 | Combined MPG | 24 | 23 |
| Standard ✓ | Navigation System with Turn-by-Turn Directions | Requires Higher Trim Level | Requires Technology Package |
| Standard ✓ | Real-Time Weather Updates | Not Available | Not Available |
| 56.1 / 52.5 inches ✓ | Front / Rear Hip Room | 55.6 / 50.8 inches | 55.0 / 49.9 inches |
| Standard ✓ | Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance | Not Available | Not Available |
| Available | Plug-In Hybrid Model | Available | Not Available |
| 84 MPGe | PHEV Fuel Economy | 78 MPGe | Not Available |
Money-Saving Features and Cutting-Edge Technology
Starting at the top of the table above, you can see that initially, the Base MSRP of the Lexus NX slots between the Lincoln Corsair and the Acura RDX, but as we investigate deeper, you’ll find standard features that will cost extra on these two competitors, combined with attributes of the Lexus that will save you money throughout your ownership. Let’s start with ownership costs. Given the increases in gas prices we’ve been experiencing, you’ll appreciate that the Lexus NX offers the best fuel economy among the three models we’re comparing here. Additionally, the Lexus NX comes with Complimentary Maintenance for your first year of ownership (or your first 10,000 miles, whichever comes first) - providing savings you’ll enjoy here at the dealership and every time you visit the pump.
Safety, including highly advanced driver assistance systems, has always been a strength for Lexus, and this is especially true of the NX. While the Corsair does have a driver attention alert, the NX is the only one to come with an unresponsive driver assist, which safely brings the car to a stop in the event that the driver becomes unresponsive for an extended period. The NX is also the only one of the three to come with parking sensors in both the front and rear.
Finally, there’s one more feature that you can’t get on the Lincoln or Acura at any price, and that is more interior space for you and your passengers. How is Lexus able to offer more room while remaining more fuel efficient than its rivals? The answer is innovation - the Lexus NX is built on the new TNGA platform, which also underpins the Lexus UX and LX models. This new platform delivers significant benefits, including lowering the center of gravity, improving ride quality, and yes - delivering more interior space for passengers. This translates to an extra inch of hip room for front seat passengers and a full two inches of extra hip room for rear seat passengers versus the Lincoln Corsair and Acura RDX.
Lexus NX Powertrain Options
You'd better love the 2.0L Turbocharged engine in the Acura RDX, because there are no optional engine choices at any trim level. The Corsair does a bit better, offering an available plug-in hybrid drivetrain, although this is available only on the top Grand Touring trim level. The Corsair is also the lowest-priced of the three because it’s the only one that doesn’t come with standard all-wheel drive, in addition to offering the least standard power.
The NX offers three distinct powertrain options: one gasoline, one “conventional” hybrid, and one plug-in hybrid. The larger standard engine in the NX produces noticeably more power than the competitors, and the plug-in hybrid option turns up the horsepower rating to 304. But an even bigger advantage is that the hybrid and plug-in hybrid options come in a choice of three trims each. That kind of versatility is a major strength for Lexus.
Awards and Accolades
Each year, the J.D. Power U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) measures the number of problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PP100) during the past 12 months by original owners of vehicles1. In the 2025 study, Lexus outperformed both Lincoln and Acura, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to engineering the most dependable luxury vehicles on the road.
Winner - Lexus NX
Any way you look at it, the top choice among these three compact luxury SUVs is the Lexus NX. The NX established itself as a leader in the segment thanks to unmatched value, comfort, efficiency, and dynamic styling. The NX widens the gap with superior efficiency, comfort, and cutting-edge technology that will make your journeys more exhilarating than ever before. Instead of settling for an inferior SUV, Metro Lexus invites you to come explore all that the Lexus NX has to offer.
*Starting MSRP includes the Delivery, Processing and Handling fee (DPH), which is subject to change at any time. Excludes manufacturer and dealer options, taxes, title and license, and dealer fees and charges. Dealer price will vary.
**EPA-estimated MPG ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle’s condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
1 Source: J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS). Charts and graphs extracted from this press release for use by the media must be accompanied by a statement identifying J.D. Power as the publisher and the study from which it originated as the source. Rankings are based on numerical scores, and not necessarily on statistical significance.