2018 Lexus NX Review

If you enjoy small premium crossovers with bold styling and deluxe cabins, you’ll like what the 2018 Lexus NX has to offer. The NX also stands out thanks to its roomy backseat and long list of technology features.

The 2018 Lexus NX is a compact luxury crossover that seats five passengers, and it’s available in a single, well-equipped trim. A hybrid model, the 300h, is also offered, and it’s marketed separately. NX crossovers give buyers a choice of front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.

For 2018, the NX changes the name of its sole trim from 200t to 300. Also, the model expands its lineup of standard driver-assistance equipment.

Exterior

With its flared headlights and striking spindle grille, the NX’s sheet metal makes a dramatic impression. Many of the crossover’s panels are intricately sculpted, and the overall look is bold and futuristic. Wide taillights grace the rear fascia, and the NX travels on 17-inch wheels.

The list of standard exterior features includes illuminated exterior door handles, power-folding side mirrors, roof rails, LED tail lights and LED fog lamps. Available upgrades include 18-inch wheels, a hands-free power liftgate, rain-sensing wipers, LED headlamps, a sunroof and auto-dimming side mirrors.

Interior

The head-turning design that distinguishes the NX’s exterior is also reflected within its cabin. There are lots of premium materials in evidence, and both rows of seating provide good legroom for adult passengers. With the rear seat up, the NX offers 17.7 cubic feet for your belongings, and this figure expands to 54.6 cubic feet with the rear seat lowered.

Standard interior features for the Lexus NX include dual-zone automatic climate control, power windows and door locks, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, simulated leather upholstery and power-adjustable front seat. Available upgrades include heated and ventilated front seats, a power-folding rear seat, a power-adjustable tilt-and-telescoping steering column and a heated steering wheel.

Performance

The NX offers ample power and smooth performance. A six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive are standard, and all-wheel drive is offered to boost traction when there’s rain or snow on the road.

All models are powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that provides 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. An available F Sport package boosts performance thrills by bringing in a sport-tuned suspension.

Lexus’ NX achieves fuel economy of up to 22/28 mpg city/highway.

Technology  

There’s lots of leading-edge technology on board the 2018 Lexus NX. Standard features include forward collision mitigation, lane departure alert, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a rearview camera, an eight-speaker sound system, a touchpad that recognizes gestures such as pinching and swiping, Siri Eyes Free, HD radio, Bluetooth phone and streaming audio, USB connectivity, an 8-inch touch screen, keyless entry and ignition and a Scout GPS Link navigation app.

The list of available technology features includes integrated navigation, a 10.3-inch touch screen, a surround-view camera, a premium 10-speaker sound system, a blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert.