6 Reasons Ontario Families Choose the Cambridge-Built 2026 Lexus NX

The 2026 Lexus NX carries a badge of pride for Ontario families: it's assembled right here in Cambridge at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada. This luxury crossover isn't just built for Canadian roads—it's built on them. With three powertrain options, advanced connectivity, and thoughtful safety features, the NX is designed to meet the needs of families across the province.

From gas-powered efficiency to plug-in hybrid range, the NX lineup offers flexibility. Ontario drivers can choose the powertrain that fits their lifestyle, knowing that each model is crafted with the same attention to detail that comes from local manufacturing. Here are six reasons why families across Ontario are choosing the 2026 Lexus NX.

1. Built in Cambridge, Ontario—Quality You Can Trust

The Lexus NX and NX Hybrid are assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada's award-winning Cambridge plant. This facility has earned recognition for its quality standards and commitment to building vehicles that meet Canadian expectations. For families in Ontario, buying an NX means supporting local manufacturing while driving a luxury crossover built to handle Canadian conditions.

The Cambridge plant assembles both the Lexus RX and NX lineups, cementing Lexus as the only luxury automaker producing vehicles on Canadian soil. This local connection translates into vehicles tested and validated for the climate, road conditions, and driving habits unique to our region.

2. Three Powertrains to Match Your Driving Style

The 2026 NX lineup offers three distinct powertrains, giving Ontario families the flexibility to choose based on their priorities: performance, efficiency, or electric range.

NX 350: This model features a 2.4 L turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharged setup delivers responsive acceleration and confident passing power, with a fuel efficiency rating of 9.5 L per 100 km (city/highway combined). The NX 350 is ideal for families who prioritize driving dynamics and want quick throttle response during highway merges or spirited drives.

NX 350h: The hybrid model combines a 2.5 L four-cylinder engine with electric motors to produce 240 system horsepower. The hybrid system achieves a fuel efficiency rating of 6.0 L per 100 km, reducing trips to the gas station while lowering emissions. The NX 350h is designed for families who want to reduce their environmental footprint without sacrificing the space and utility of a crossover.

NX 450h+: The plug-in hybrid variant delivers 304 system horsepower and offers 60 km of electric-only range. For many Ontario families, this electric range covers daily commutes without using gasoline. On longer trips, the NX 450h+ switches to hybrid mode, combining electric and gas power for a fuel efficiency rating of 6.6 L per 100 km. The plug-in hybrid is suited to families with access to home charging who want the flexibility of electric driving for local trips and hybrid efficiency for road trips.

All three powertrains feature all-wheel drive, providing traction and stability during Ontario winters. Each model is tuned to deliver the Lexus Driving Signature—a balance of responsive handling, confident grip, and refined ride quality developed through testing at the Shimoyama track in Japan.

3. Lexus Interface With 14-Inch Touchscreen

The 2026 NX features Lexus Interface, a North American-designed multimedia system with a 14-inch touchscreen. The system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and Sirius XM Satellite Radio. The touchscreen is positioned within the driver's natural line of sight, reducing the need to glance away from the road.

Lexus Interface uses a natural language virtual assistant that responds to voice commands. Families can control navigation, media, and climate settings without taking their hands off the wheel. The system also integrates with the Lexus App, allowing users to remotely lock or unlock doors, check fuel levels, and locate their vehicle from a smartphone.

The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster in front of the driver provides clear, customizable information. Families can choose what data to display—speed, navigation instructions, fuel economy, or audio information—keeping the most relevant details visible at all times.

4. Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 Comes Standard

Every 2026 NX includes Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, a suite of active safety technologies designed to help prevent collisions and reduce driver workload. This system includes:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian, Bicycle, and Motorcycle Detection: Monitors the road ahead and provides alerts if a potential collision is detected. If the driver doesn't respond, the system can apply automatic braking.
• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead and adjusts speed when entering curves.
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: Detects lane markings and provides gentle steering corrections if the vehicle begins to drift.
• Road Sign Assist: Recognizes traffic signs and displays them on the instrument cluster.
• Automatic High Beams: Toggles between high and low beams based on traffic conditions.

The NX also includes the Blind Spot Monitor System with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, a backup camera with Back Guide Monitor, and eight airbags. For families, these features provide an extra layer of confidence during school drop-offs, highway drives, and busy Ontario traffic.

5. Versatile Cargo Space for Growing Families

The NX is designed to accommodate family life. The cargo area provides space for groceries, sports equipment, strollers, and weekend luggage. The rear seats fold in a 60/40 split, allowing families to carry longer items while still seating passengers. A hands-free power back door (available on select grades) simplifies loading when hands are full.

Inside, the NX offers thoughtful storage solutions: a centre console box, seat-back pockets, and door panel compartments. The cabin feels spacious, with room for up to five passengers. Heated and ventilated front seats (available on most grades) keep families comfortable during summer road trips and winter commutes.

The NX balances cargo capacity with daily usability. Families can load gear for camping trips, transport furniture from the store, or simply manage the week's groceries without needing to compromise on passenger space.

6. New F SPORT 2 and F SPORT 3 Hybrid Grades for 2026

For 2026, Lexus expands the F SPORT lineup with new grades for both hybrid models. The NX 350h and NX 450h+ now offer F SPORT 2 and F SPORT 3 packages, bringing aggressive styling and performance enhancements to the hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants.

F SPORT 2 Features:

• 20-inch F SPORT black alloy wheels
• F SPORT front grille and exterior styling
• F SPORT interior with sport seats and steering wheel
• Adaptive Variable Suspension for sharper handling
• 64-colour thematic ambient illumination
• Wireless charging and digital key

F SPORT 3 Adds:

• Panoramic moonroof
• Head-up display
• Triple beam LED headlamps
• Panoramic View Monitor
• Power rear door with kick sensor
• Digital rearview mirror

The F SPORT grades deliver a sportier appearance and driving feel without sacrificing the efficiency benefits of the hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. Families who want a more dynamic look and handling can now choose F SPORT styling with the fuel economy of the NX 350h or the electric range of the NX 450h+.

At a Glance: Why the 2026 Lexus NX Works for Ontario Families

Learn More at Lexus of Lakeridge

The 2026 Lexus NX brings together local manufacturing quality, flexible powertrain options, and advanced technology in a luxury crossover designed for Ontario families. From the Cambridge plant to your driveway, the NX is built to handle Canadian roads and seasons.

Visit our team at Lexus of Lakeridge in Ajax to explore the 2026 NX lineup and discover which powertrain fits your family's needs. We're here to help you find the right NX for your lifestyle.