The current generation of this small crossover may be among the oldest in class but still has a lot of things to show. The original model was introduced five years ago and we expect to see a full redesign in a few years. Meanwhile, the 2021 Lexus NX 300 continues in the same way, with a familiar design and features.
This means you may count on a crossover that offers a very comfortable ride. Its refined cabin and excellent sound insulation are definitely some of the strongest points, along with a long list of standard equipment. Furthermore, the peppy turbo-four engine ensures strong performances not just in the city, but on the highway as well.
The 2021 Lexus NX 300 brings no particular change. Practically, you may count on just a couple of revisions in terms of standard and available equipment. Also, we should mention a new color option in the offer, called Nori Green Pearl.
2021 Lexus NX 300 Redesign
As we’ve just mentioned, the current generation is getting close to the end of its production cycle. It has been around since 2015, so it’s no wonder that it still rides on the New MC platform. Compared to some younger counterparts, it’s not as engaging, but many drivers like its relaxed drive, along with quite high ground clearance and pretty SUV-ish handling.
Besides good mechanics and excellent reliability ratings, this model is also one of the prettiest in the class, despite that there are so many younger rivals out there. The 2021 Lexus NX 300 will continue to stand out with its recognizable spindle grille and lots of narrow and sharp lines. As we already mentioned, the biggest novelty for the next year is the addition of Nori Green Pear color. Other than that, things have remained pretty much the same.
Interior
The same thing goes for interior design. The 2021 Lexus NX 300 comes with a familiar layout, which is all about comfort and convenience. The overall quality is pretty impressive. The dashboard is attractive and, more importantly, it features some pretty impressive materials, along with excellent build quality. Furthermore, we really like the seats, which are among the most comfortable in the class.
Besides the impressive level of luxury, this crossover also offers a quite decent amount of space. At the front, the offer of leg and headroom is pretty generous. The rear seats are spacious as well, so adult passengers can enjoy longer journeys as well.
When it comes to the cargo volume, things are slightly below-average for the class of compact SUVs. Still, if we consider the model’s size and the fact that it actually stands somewhere between subcompact and compact segments, things are actually pretty good. You may count on about 18 cubic feet behind the second row and nearly 55 cubic feet of the overall cargo space.
Features
Another great thing about this crossover is a long list of standard features. When it comes to tech goodies, the list includes an 8-inch infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, HD Radio, Wi-Fi hotspot, 8-speaker audio system etc. The list of standard equipment also includes things like push-button start, keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control etc. Additionally, you can get a bigger 10.3-inch infotainment screen, navigation, hands-free power liftgate, panoramic sunroof, premium audio system etc.
When it comes to safety, this is a typical Lexus. So, the list of standard safety features is very long. It includes goodies like a rearview camera, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, traffic sign recognition etc.
2021 Lexus NX 300 Engine
Things under the hood have remained the same. The 2021 Lexus NX 300 carries on with a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine, which delivers around 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The acceleration and overall performances are pretty impressive, while the six-speed automatic gearbox provides smooth shifts and a very comfortable ride.
When it comes to fuel economy, this small crossover returns around 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Those are slightly above-average numbers for the class. If you’re looking for something more efficient, this crossover also comes in a hybrid version, which uses a well-known system based on a 2.5-liter four-cylinder unit.
2021 Lexus NX 300 Release Date and Price
The 2021 Lexus NX 300 will arrive in showrooms in the next couple of weeks. From what we know, you shouldn’t expect any bigger price increase for the next year. Base models should go around 38.000 dollars.
When it comes to the competition, this model stands somewhere between the subcompact and compact segment. Therefore, is competes with models like Volvo XC40, BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA on one side, as well as with models like Volvo XC60, Audi Q5 and BMW X3 on the other.