In-depth Comparison: Toyota Crown Signia versus Lexus NX

The SUV segment stands out as one of the most favored body configurations in the US automobile industry. Due to its blend of functionality, ease of maneuvering, and comfort, it caters to a broad spectrum of drivers and has swiftly emerged as the go-to option for individuals seeking a reliable family transportation choice.

Toyota is set to launch the Crown Signia into the US market in 2025, presenting this as a crossover SUV variant of the Crown sedan. Featuring a hybrid powertrain and a plush interior, the Crown Signia aims to be an opulent yet reasonably priced daily family commuter.

However, upon its debut in the market, Toyota’s new offering will encounter stiff competition; the Lexus NX, another high-end hybrid SUV, stands as one of its key opponents. Positioned as the second smallest crossover within the Lexus range, the NX has been in its current form for two years following a comprehensive overhaul in 2022.

Both the Signia and the NX vie for a similar share of the market segment, occupy comparable pricing tiers, and share various characteristics, so what distinguishes them from each other? Let’s delve into the design and features of each model to facilitate a comparison between these two hybrid SUVs.

2025 Toyota Crown Signia – A Comprehensive Look

Positioned as a two-row crossover SUV, the Toyota Crown Signia enters the market as a replacement for the outgoing Toyota Venza, which will be phased out this year. Emulating the Venza, the Signia boasts a premium interior as its flagship feature, built with superior-quality materials compared to the rest of Toyota’s lineup. Moreover, the Signia showcases enhancements in various capabilities over the Venza, with increased cargo space and towing capacity, thereby amplifying its practicality credentials.

Regarding dimensions, the Signia slots in between the compact RAV4 and the spacious, three-row Highlander in Toyota’s lineup. Despite being pricier than both aforementioned models, the Signia’s pricing is not exorbitant. Emphasizing luxury as a key selling point, the Signia is attractively priced and remains within reach as a daily driver for regular families.

A Quick Look at the 2025 Lexus NX

The Lexus NX also falls in the two-row crossover SUV category, offering a cozy interior, a smooth driving experience, and ample space for passengers and cargo. Engineered for quiet, efficient performance, the NX lineup isn’t entirely hybrid, but customers can opt for a solely gasoline-powered model if they’re not yet prepared to transition into the electrified realm.

The NX range underwent a significant update in 2022, with further enhancements for the 2025 edition, leading to a slightly increased price tag. New additions encompass a rose-gold finish choice, a fresh interior color selection, and various tech features: standard across all trims are the intuitive parking assistance system, automated braking system, rain-sensing windshield wipers, USB-C chargers, and a power liftgate. Wireless charging is now an available upgrade.

Enhanced Performance & Trim Selections for the NX

The Crown Signia offers a sole hybrid powertrain option: a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine combined with three electric motors and a CVT transmission. The total power output stands at 243 horsepower. While not tailored for spirited driving, the Signia prioritizes a serene, comfortable journey from point A to B. Accelerating from 0-60 mph in approximately seven seconds, the Signia achieves a (restricted) top speed of 118 mph. Two trim variants are on offer (XLE and Limited): the Limited trim enhances luxury with features like 21-inch wheels, heated rear seats, a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and an 11-speaker audio system.

The NX provides a broader array of trim options, offering a selection of 11 trim variants. The initial three are exclusively gas-powered, with the most affordable hybrid trim being the NX350h. Moving a few levels up, the Luxury edition (offered in both ICE-only and hybrid versions) introduces a range of comfort and technology features including quilted leather seats, a larger (14-inch) infotainment touchscreen, premium ambient lighting, and four-way adjustable lumbar support for the driver’s seat. Regarding the powertrain, the base NX250 (available in FWD or AWD) is equipped with a 203hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The NX350 (available in AWD only) features a 275hp turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder, while its hybrid model (the NX350h) combines two electric motors with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine for a total output of 240hp. The most potent variant is the NX450h+, featuring a 304hp plug-in hybrid setup borrowed from the Toyota RAV4 Prime.

Proportions: Quite Similar

The Signia has a slightly longer wheelbase compared to the NX, measuring at 112.2 inches against the NX’s 105.9 inches. Both cars have ample room for five occupants to sit comfortably. However, the Signia offers slightly more passenger volume (96 cubic inches compared to NX’s 92) and cargo space (25 cu. in for Signia, 23 for NX). The distinctions remain marginal, and both vehicles provide generous space for passengers and their belongings.

Technology, Convenience & Safety

The Lexus NX also provides a cozy, expansive cabin, with backseat passenger area highlighted as one of its key features. Various additional comfort options are available such as a customizable ambient lighting system offering 64 color variations, heated rear seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The NX’s entertainment interface, complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, is managed through either a 9.8-inch touchscreen (in base models) or a 14.0-inch touchscreen in higher trims. A 10-speaker audio system is standard, with the option to upgrade to a 17-speaker setup, wireless charging, and a heads-up display. A full suite of safety features comes standard on the NX, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assistance.

Who Would The Signia Suit Best?

The Signia fulfills all the requirements for those seeking serene, subtle luxury at a reasonable cost, coupled with a relaxing, seamless ride and the capacity to meet the entire family’s transportation needs. Being a brand-new model, it also comes fully equipped with all the latest technology, so if you value cutting-edge entertainment and dashboard, the Signia will be an excellent selection for your next vehicle. It is also more affordable than all but the most basic Lexus NX trims, making it a superb choice for those who are conscious of their budget and unwilling to compromise on luxury.

Who Would The NX Best Suit?

With a broader selection of trims and powertrain variations to choose from, the NX caters to a wider range of individuals. If you’re looking for a bit more power and flair, the NX450+h is the ideal choice, particularly in the F Sport trim, which provides some performance enhancements and a more dynamic appearance. And if you’re not prepared for hybrid ownership just yet, the NX also offers fully gas-powered alternatives while the Signia does not.