Lexus NX vs smart #3

The Lexus NX starts from $59,900 before on-road costs, while the smart #3 opens at $57,900. That makes the smart #3 the more affordable entry point by $2,000.

Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $65,890 and $63,690 respectively.

The smart #3 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Lexus NX, as a petrol model, does not qualify.

Both the Lexus NX and smart #3 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 91% for the Lexus NX and 90% for the smart #3.

Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The smart #3 packs more ADAS features with 8 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 6 in the Lexus NX.

Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 8 in the Lexus NX and 7 in the smart #3.

The Lexus NX features a 9.8-inch touchscreen paired with a 8-inch digital dash, while the smart #3 gets a 12.8-inch display and 9.2-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.

The smart #3 counters with panoramic roof, heated front seats and Beats audio that the Lexus NX does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.

Interior trim differs: the Lexus NX gets synthetic leather upholstery while the smart #3 offers leather.

The Lexus NX uses a Petrol producing 152kW and 243Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9 seconds.

The smart #3 responds with a Electric making 200kW and 343Nm, paired to a single-speed automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 5.8 seconds.

The smart #3 has the clear power advantage at 200kW vs 152kW. In the real-world sprint, the smart #3 is 3.2s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.

The Lexus NX measures 4,660mm long on a 2,690mm wheelbase, 260mm longer than the smart #3 at 4,400mm (2,785mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the smart #3 generally means more rear legroom.

Boot space is 520L in the Lexus NX and 260L in the smart #3, giving the Lexus NX a 260L advantage.

For towing, the Lexus NX leads with a 1,650kg braked capacity vs 1,600kg. That 50kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.

Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.

Warranty: 4 years / 100,000km (Lexus NX) vs 5 years / 150,000km (smart #3). The smart #3 has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: 4yr (Lexus NX)—.