2021 Lexus NX 300 F Sport AWD: The Luxury Brand’s Entry-Level Performance Compact Crossover

  

Highlight: The NX is based off of the hot-selling Toyota RAV4.

Test Vehicle's MSRP: $51,785 (Base NX Model: $38,635)

Seating Capacity: 5

Standard Safety Features: airbags; ABS; a tire pressure monitoring system; lane tracing assist system; a road sign assist; pre-collision system with pedestrian detection; a back up camera; automatic high beam headlights; traction control system; and an electronic blind spot monitor; first aid kit; and vehicle stability control

Standard Equipment (NX): 17-inch wheels; front wheel drive; a 6-speed automatic transmission; three driving modes; an all-speed radar cruise control system; a smart access entry system; push button ignition system; power folding outside mirrors; automatic headlights; keyless entry access; roof rails; carpeted floor mats; power front seats; rear center armrest with dual cupholders; tonneau cover; a dual zone ventilation system; Siri eyes free mode; and Amazon Alexa compatibility 

Equipment (F-Sport): 18-inch wheels; a sport tuned suspension system; perforated leather seats; heated steering wheel with paddle shifters; front fog and concerning lamps; LED daytime running lights; door scuff plates; black headliner; black outside mirrors; active sound control; and aluminum pedals

Options: adaptive variable suspension; 360-degree camera monitor; windshield wiper de-icer; triple beam LED headlamps with an adaptive front lighting system; a 10-inch navigation system; a 14-speaker Mark Levinson audio system; an interior automatic dimming mirror; intuitive parking assist with automatic braking; premium exterior paint color; F-sport package (heated/ventilated front seats, and a power tilt moonroof

Other Trim Levels:

A hybrid model

Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: an 8- speaker AM/FM audio system

Bluetooth Connectivity: Standard

USB Connectivity: Standard

Apple/Android Connectivity: Standard

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty:  6 years or 70,000 miles

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 2.0-liter GDI, 4-cylinder engine/235-hp

Recommended Fuel: Premium

Standard Fuel Mileage: 22-city/27-hwy

What’s New: With the exception of a few package changes, the 2021 compact luxury crossover is literally a carryover.

Pros:

Available in a front wheel drive or an all-wheel drive configuration

Stylish bold athletic exterior design

Blind spot monitor with a rear cross traffic alert is standard across the board in 2021

A host of standard safety driving features

Available as a hybrid or gasoline model

No panoramic sunroof

Great handling

A turbo 4-cylinder engine

F-Sport performance model

Scores the highest in quality in this segment, according to Consumer Reports

But: 

The compact crossover can tip over $50,000, depending upon options

The NX lacks cargo space, when compared to others in the segment

The instrument layout is very complicated and busy

Like in all Lexus products, the mouse controlling the infotainment system is cumbersome to operate

Verdict:  The first-generation LX has been around since 2014. It has been a hit for the brand, since hitting the scene. The nimble compact luxury crossover, which is available in a front wheel drive or an-all wheel drive configuration, has been packaged in a bold, athletic design. And unlike other Lexus models, the spindle grille seems fitting for this model.

Moreover, the folks at Lexus has infused the latest high tech features in the vehicle too. Its very competitive in this segment and a worthy contender to consider. Furthermore, the NX is available in a hybrid and a gasoline model.

Competition: Acura RDX; Audi Q3: BMW X1; BMW 2 Series; Cadillac XT4; Jaguar F-Pace; Land Rover Discovery Sport; Lincoln Corsair; Mercedes-Benz GLC; and Volvo XC40