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This is the Lexus NX. It’s a compact luxury SUV originally introduced for the 2015 model year. And, even though it’s quite ready for an update, Lexus still sells a ton of them.

In fact, a new NX is coming for 2022 but this is the one we have for now. Is it worth considering? If you adore Lexus’s excellent resale values and reliable reputation, then yes. That badge on the front does wonders for owner confidence.

The general layout of the interior also has its pluses. Cargo space is decent for the NX’s size (NX 300: 17.7 cu-ft) (NX 300h: 16.8 cu-ft), material quality is good, I fit well enough in back though it’s cozy for our 6’ 4” videographer Mike Danger… And, as I say about nearly all Lexus/Toyota vehicles, the seats are blissfully free of pressure points.

Space wise the cabin is perfectly workable. But there are also shortcomings. For me, one of the biggest is the dash design. By putting controls on a horizontal rather than vertical plane, the text and indicator lights get washed out in direct sunlight. I literally can’t tell if the seat-heater is activated without making a shadow with my hand. Another common complaint is the infotainment system.

There’s a standard 8-inch screen or optional 10.3-inch screen, like in our tester here, controlled by Lexus’s Remote Touch Interface control pad. Using a touchscreen would be easier and less distracting while driving than moving a cursor around with this pad. You’re welcome to disagree with my assessment, but early indications are that Lexus will be moving to a touchscreen for the next NX. So hey, maybe I’m on to something.

Attentive Lexus fans might’ve noticed I’m driving an NX HYBRID F SPORT BLACK LINE SPECIAL EDITION, of which Lexus will only build 1,000. In addition to a very long name, the black line special edition comes with unique wheels and color choices, special blue stitching, and, if you actually buy one, fancy travel cases that sadly weren’t included with my press loan. Aw, life sure is hard for car reviewers.

For now, the Black Line Special is the only way to get the NX’s F Sport suspension and styling with the hybrid powertrain. For comparison’s sake, here is what a non-F Sport looks like.

The standard NX 300 gets its thrust from a 2-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder (235 hp 258 lb-ft) married to a six-speed automatic transmission and either front or if you can spare an extra $1,400, all-wheel drive.

The NX 300h hybrid comes exclusively with all-wheel drive, blending the output of a 2.5-liter engine and 2 electric motors to deliver a combined 194 horsepower (194 hp Combined). No surprise, the hybrid is the more efficient choice. (NX 300h AWD 33 city/ 30 hwy , NX 300 AWD 22 city / 28 hwy).

For fun, let’s see how the hybrid pulls from a standstill. Equally important to me is how the NX 300h stops. Oooh. Awkward, artificial hybrid brakes. That’s going on your permanent record.

Hybrid brakes aside the NX drives well. It’s quiet in cruise, the steering feels confident if not outright thrilling, and the ride is smooth enough for most tastes. Though for maximum comfort skip the more stiffly-tuned F-Sport suspension.

One note, visibility over the driver’s right shoulder is somewhat hindered by think pillars but standard blind-spot warning helps manage that challenge. Other standard features found on a base $37-and-a-half thousand-dollar NX 300 include dual-zone climate control, a 10-way power driver seat, smart key access, and a healthy array of active safety tech.

Comprising that array are forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, full-speed adaptive cruise control… And lane-keeping assist. Let’s see how it works.

For a fancier NX experience, higher trims offer upgrades like a power liftgate, ventilated leather front seats, and a 14-speaker 835-watt premium audio system. Other premium compact SUVs competing for your attention include the Acura RDX, Volvo XC60, and the upcoming Genesis GV70, which I think looks super cool.

There are also pricier but more elite contenders like the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Mercedes Benz GLC. Among that set, you can find newer, more powerful, and more luxurious options.

Though late in its life cycle, the current generation NX still embodies Lexus values as a comfortable and reliable compact SUV. If you like what it offers and can find one for a good price the 2021 NX could be a good fit. But as a fan of touchscreens, I’d probably wait for the 2022.

00:00 2021 Lexus NX
0:39 Interior
2:41 Engine
3:10 Driving Impressions
4:45 Competitors

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