Which is Better, the Lexus or the Infiniti Plug-in Hybrid?

June 17th, 2022 by

The Infiniti plug-in hybrid models offer a more powerful driving experience than the Lexus plug-in hybrid. However, the Lexus hybrid has advantages in both range and fuel efficiency.

Hybrids make a good bridge between gas cars and full EVs for drivers who are tentative about making the switch. For drivers looking to compare their luxury plug-in hybrid options, there are a few high-quality models available. The new Lexus plug-in hybrid, the Lexus NX, and the Infiniti Q50 are two excellent hybrid models. At Ray Catena Auto Group, our knowledgeable staff is here to help you make the best choice for you.

The NX was introduced in 2015, and Lexus has continued to release new models each year since. The Q50, on the other hand, was released from 2014 to 2018. Since then, Infiniti has turned its attention to manufacturing new all-electric vehicles. For the sake of this comparison, we will be focusing on the 2018 model of the Q50 hybrid.

Efficiency

Lexus NX Hybrid Luxury Electric VehicleIt should come as little surprise that the 2025 Lexus NX offers more electric range than the Infiniti Q50. After all, the Lexus NX has a few years of technological advancement available to it. The latest version of the Lexus plug-in hybrid can travel up to 37 miles on fully electric power. When it’s not using electric power, the NX gets a combined 28 miles per gallon. The NX is a Certified Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle, making it one of the most efficient hybrid models available.

The 2018 Infiniti Q50 has an impressive MPG rating of 34.6 miles. However, unlike the Lexus NX, the Q50 is not a standard hybrid, rather than a plug-in hybrid. This means that Q50’s electric battery is powered by the gas engine. So while gas is required to run the vehicle, most of its operations are controlled by electric power. But with its all-electric range capabilities, the NX hybrid has a slight advantage in this category.

Winner: Lexus NX

Driving Performance

Infiniti Q50 Plug In HybridDespite being a few years older, Infiniti Q50 is able to edge out the Lexus NX in terms of horsepower. The Q50’s engine gets up to 359 horsepower, going from 0-60 MPH in 5.4 seconds and topping out at 150 MPH. The Lexus plug-in hybrid has 304 horsepower, with a maximum speed of 124 MPH. The NX does offer plenty of other features which make it a great LEV to operate. All-wheel-drive, along with front and rear independent suspension, makes the NX an incredibly smooth ride all around.

With that said, the Q50’s superior engine is also paired with industry-leading safety features and exceptional handling. So while both the NX and the Q50 offer tremendous driving performance, the Q50 has a slight edge.

Winner: Infiniti Q50

Technology

The Q50 offers top-notch safety features and an exceptionally comfortable cabin, with heated leather seats and dual-zone climate control. Smartphone connectivity and an 8-inch touch screen are also popular features in the Infiniti hybrid.

But in 2025, the Lexus plug-in hybrid simply has more high-tech options to choose from. 10-way adjustable seats, a fully modernized infotainment system, and a state-of-the-art surround sound system are all available. Each Lexus vehicle offers pristine luxury and some of the most advanced tech on the road.

Winner: Lexus NX

View Our Lexus NX Inventory

You can always trust Ray Catena Auto Group to give you the service that comes with being the Legend in Luxury – and now we’re the area’s leaders in LEVs as well. Visit a dealership or see our full inventory to see what Electrified Luxury can do for your daily drive. 

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Posted in Luxury Electric Vehicles