2021 Lexus NX300 Luxury – Still a contender

My prior extended chance behind the wheel of the Lexus NX 300 Luxury was around its introduction, MY2015. If memory serves it was an NX300 F Sport. That was about the same time the RX series received its latest makeover and just before the UX Series debuted. Since then, several smaller luxury crossovers have arrived or been extensively revised. These include the Acura RDX, Lincoln Nautilus, Infiniti QX50 and Volvo XC60, as well as the Audi Q3 and BMW X3. Of all the vehicles I’ve tested over the past 25 years, this Lexus NX300 seemed to float my wife’s boat the most.

So how does this 2021 version stack up against the competition? Here’s my thoughts.

First off, the enhancements to the NX Series include standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, power-folding, auto-dimming side mirrors which are included on all trim levels, and a green paint option becomes available. A power-operated tailgate with kick activation is now a standalone option, the steering wheel horn pad has been redesigned and a Black Line Special Edition is offered for NX 300h F Sport.

Exterior styling has changed very little over the past six years, where it still wears its angular bodywork over a platform shared with the Toyota RAV4. It also features the brand's first turbocharged engine. Besides its eye-catching looks, the NX offers proven Lexus reliability and an available hybrid drivetrain. It slots between the family-oriented RX and subcompact UX in Lexus' crossover lineup.

As mentioned above the NX 300 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo-four producing 235-hp and 258 lb.-ft of torque. It's connected to a six-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels as standard or AWD optionally. EPA-rated fuel economy is 22/28 mpg city/highway for FWD and AWD models, although efficiency is reduced to 22/27 mpg in F Sport trim. The NX offers paddle shifters, although I had little reason to use them.

For greater efficiency, Lexus offers the NX 300h hybrid. It uses a 2.5-liter I-4 and CVT automatic plus three electric motors to provide hybrid AWD. EPA-rated fuel economy here is 33/30 mpg. At least the NX 300h hybrid model is the most efficient, though for those not set on a luxury-badged vehicle, the all-new reintroduced Toyota Venza hybrid is far more efficient and feels premium in its highest trim.

As standard, the NX is equipped with a wide but outdated for the times 8.0-inch infotainment display, which includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Bluetooth connectivity. An available 10.3-inch display adds built-in navigation. Two front-row USB ports are included. An eight-speaker audio system is standard, and a 14-speaker Mark Levinson premium setup is available. Curiously, the NX offers a standard CD player.

The NX 300’s cargo space measures 17.7 cubic feet behind the second-row seats, or 54.6 cubic feet with those seats folded down. The battery pack in the NX 300h reduces cargo space slightly, to 16.8 and 53.7 cubic feet, respectively.

In all models, front-row headroom measures 38.2 inches, which compares to 40.0 inches in the Acura RDX. Second-row headroom is 38.1 inches, similar to the 38.0 inches in the RDX. Front-row legroom is 42.8 inches in the Lexus, a bit more than 42.0 inches in the Acura. Second-row legroom is 36.1 inches in the NX, behind the RDX's 38.0 inches. Though second-row seating is fixed, the seatbacks do recline.

Standard driver-assist and active safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, road sign recognition, and automatic high-beams. Previously optional blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert with automatic braking become standard equipment for 2021.

The base NX 300 includes 17-inch alloy wheels, power-folding side mirrors, leatherette seating upholstery and keyless entry with push-button start.

My tester was the NX 300 Luxury, which included built-in navigation, perforated leather seating upholstery,heated and ventilated front seats and a power moonroof, although not panoramic. Base sticker came out to be $45,380 with several option boxes checked such as panoramic view monitor, $800; windshield wiper de-icer and fast response interior heater, $100; and 60/40 power folding rear seats, $400. More extras included on this sticker were triple-beam LED headlamps with adaptive front lighting system, $1,515; navigation with 10.3 multimedia display, 14 speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system, interior audio-dimming mirror with HomeLink $1,060; Intuitive parking assist with auto braking, $535; and power rear door with kick sensor, $150. Premium paint is a $425 option; glass breakage sensor (GBS), $330; carpet cargo mat, $110; rear bumper protector, $130; and alloy wheel locks, $85. Total drive-out came to $52,025, including designation charges.My tester came in Eminent White Pearl exterior with perforated cream leather and Black Shadow wood trim inside.

The NX 300 F Sport includes18-inch alloy wheels, sport-inspired exterior styling, high-bolster front seats and a performance-tuned suspension. The NX 300h hybrid is offered in standard and Luxury versions.

From the NHTSA, the NX gets a five-star overall safety rating, the highest possible score. From the IIHS, the NX earned a 2020 Top Safety Pick + designation, which earns the top Good score in all six crashworthiness tests.

One thing's for sure, the Lexus NX is distinctive, like no other luxury compact SUV. Beyond its styling the NX is like a baby RX or big brother to the UX.

Driving manners are somewhat aggressive, especially on the twisties, and the general feeling is solid, especially on a day-long trip. At the same time, ride quality is smooth and quiet. All NX models feature selectable drive modes, including both hybrid models. Drive modes in the NX 300h include EV mode, ECO, Normal and Sport modes. Each mode adjusts throttle, suspension and performance to the driver's preference.

Inside, the NX's cabin is nicely appointed and feels more expensive than its price suggests. Switchgear is easy to use, especially the dual-zone climate control. However, there is no HUD heads-up display and Lexus' frustrating infotainment system still uses a distracting touchpad instead of a conventional touchscreen. Passenger space is good; however, cargo capacity isn't as large as some of its competitors.

Eye-catching looks, a plush ride, and good fuel economy give the NX appeal, although the smallish 12-gallon tank leaves a lot to be desired. On a trip from Dallas-Fort Worth down to Austin I used up most of what was in the tank. Vehicles such as the Audi and BMW have an 18.5- or 17.7-gallon capacity, respectively.

For sportier athletics or a more spacious interior, you may want to choose one of its competitors, or just wait a short while until the Next-generation NX arrives.