2025 Lexus NX 250 vs 2025 Acura RDX Base
$2,135 less and 5 mpg better vs 69 more hp and 96 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $2,135 price gap, 203 vs 272 hp, 28 vs 23 MPG.
The NX 250 leads on $2,135 less, 5 MPG better. The RDX Base leads on 69 more hp, 96 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Lexus NX 250 | 2025 Acura RDX Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $42,565 | $44,700 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 203 hp | 272 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 10-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 32 | 27 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.5 gal | 17.1 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $2,500/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,790 lbs | 4,014 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.9" | 108.3" |
| Length | 183.5" | 187.4" |
| Width | 73.4" | 74.8" |
| Height | 66.1" | 65.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 6yr/70k | 6yr/70k |
| Corrosion | 6yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/unlimited | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Lexus NX 250 and 2025 Acura RDX Base?
The 2025 Lexus NX 250 starts at $42,565, $2,135 less than the 2025 Acura RDX Base at $44,700. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $37/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Lexus NX 250?
The 2025 Lexus NX 250 is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,135 in your pocket and the 2025 Lexus NX 250 covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $326/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Acura RDX Base?
The 2025 Acura RDX Base is the stronger pick when the extra 69 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Lexus NX 250 or 2025 Acura RDX Base?
The 2025 Lexus NX 250 rates 28 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Lexus NX 250 or 2025 Acura RDX Base?
The 2025 Acura RDX Base produces 272 hp, 69 more than the 2025 Lexus NX 250 at 203 hp. The 2025 Acura RDX Base also leads in torque at 280 lb-ft vs 184 lb-ft. The 2025 Lexus NX 250 runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Acura RDX Base uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Lexus NX 250 bigger than the 2025 Acura RDX Base?
The 2025 Acura RDX Base is 3.9″ longer at 187.4″ vs 183.5″. The 2025 Acura RDX Base has a 2.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 6yr/70k powertrain.
Explore more: Lexus trims, Lexus NX trims, Acura trims, Acura RDX trims
- 2025 Lexus NX 250 Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Acura RDX Base Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the NX and RDX Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2025 Lexus NX 250 ($42,565) and 2025 Acura RDX Base ($44,700) solve similar problems in different ways. The $2,135 gap is about $37/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: NX vs RDX
The 2025 Lexus NX 250 runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Acura RDX Base uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Acura RDX Base has 69 more hp (272 vs 203). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Acura RDX Base adds 96 more lb-ft of torque (280 vs 184), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Lexus NX 250 saves roughly $326/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,630. The 2025 Lexus NX 250 wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Lexus NX 250 when you want to keep $2,135 in your pocket and the 2025 Lexus NX 250 covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Acura RDX Base when the extra 69 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $37/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Lexus or Acura or any dealership.