Peugeot 408 vs Lexus NX
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Peugeot 408 starts from $57,990 before on-road costs, while the Lexus NX opens at $59,900. That makes the Peugeot 408 the more affordable entry point by $1,910.
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 $63,789 and $65,890 respectively.
Safety Rundown
Both the Peugeot 408 and Lexus NX hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 79% for the Peugeot 408 and 91% for the Lexus NX.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Lexus NX packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 5 in the Peugeot 408.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the Peugeot 408 and 8 in the Lexus NX.
Feature Showdown
The Peugeot 408 features a 10-inch touchscreen, while the Lexus NX gets a 14-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Peugeot 408 stands out with panoramic roof and Focal audio that you will not find on the Lexus NX. The Lexus NX counters with ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Peugeot 408 uses a Hybrid producing 100kW and 230Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9.4 seconds.
The Lexus NX responds with a Petrol making 152kW and 243Nm, paired to a automatic driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 9 seconds.
The Lexus NX has the clear power advantage at 152kW vs 100kW. In the real-world sprint, the Lexus NX is 0.4s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Peugeot 408 measures 4,690mm long on a 2,790mm wheelbase, 30mm longer than the Lexus NX at 4,660mm (2,690mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Peugeot 408 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 508L in the Peugeot 408 and 520L in the Lexus NX, giving the Lexus NX a 12L advantage.
For towing, the Lexus NX leads with a 1,650kg braked capacity vs 1,300kg. That 350kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.8m to 11.4m
Based on 10.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,739/year for the Peugeot 408 and $1,739/year for the Lexus NX.
Estimated annual total: $1,739 (Peugeot 408) vs $1,739 (Lexus NX). Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 200,000km (Peugeot 408) vs 4 years / 100,000km (Lexus NX). The Peugeot 408 has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: —4yr (Lexus NX).
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Peugeot 408 if: You want the lower entry price, value a longer warranty, or prefer Peugeot's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Lexus NX if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, need stronger towing, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Lexus NX takes 4 of 6 key spec categories. The Peugeot 408 adds peace of mind with a longer 5-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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