Lexus NX vs Kia EV9
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 Lexus NX starts from $59,900 before on-road costs, while the Kia EV9 opens at $97,000. That makes the Lexus NX the more affordable entry point by $37,100.
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 $106,700 respectively.
The Kia EV9 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.
Safety Rundown
Both the Lexus NX and Kia EV9 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 91% for the Lexus NX and 84% for the Kia EV9.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. Both models are evenly matched with 6 out of 10 key ADAS systems.
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 Kia EV9.
Feature Showdown
The Lexus NX features a 14-inch touchscreen, while the Kia EV9 gets a 12.3-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Lexus NX stands out with ambient lighting that you will not find on the Kia EV9. The Kia EV9 counters with heated front seats and V2L. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
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 Kia EV9 responds with a Electric making 160kW and 350Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 9.4 seconds.
The Kia EV9 has the clear power advantage at 160kW vs 152kW. 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 Lexus NX measures 4,660mm long on a 2,690mm wheelbase, 350mm shorter than the Kia EV9 at 5,010mm (3,100mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Kia EV9 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 520L in the Lexus NX and 333L in the Kia EV9, giving the Lexus NX a 187L advantage. The Kia EV9 seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the Kia EV9 leads with a 2,500kg braked capacity vs 1,650kg. That 850kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.4m to 12.0m
Based on 11.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 12.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
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 7 years / 999,999km (Kia EV9). The Kia EV9 has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: 4yr (Lexus NX)—.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Lexus NX if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Kia EV9 if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Kia EV9 takes 4 of 7 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the Lexus NX has a clear edge. The Kia EV9 adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Lexus NX and Kia EV9?
The Lexus NX is the cheapest at $59,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Kia EV9 by $37,100.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Lexus NX uses the least fuel at 6.1L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Lexus NX and Kia EV9 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Lexus NX has the largest boot at 520L.
Which can tow the most?
The Kia EV9 has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Kia EV9 has the longest warranty at 7 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Kia EV9 makes the most power at 160kW. The Lexus NX is quickest to 100km/h in 9s.
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.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
Comments (0)
Sign in to join the conversation
No comments yet. Be the first!
