Lexus NX 300
The NX 300 was the smallest entry in the Lexus SUV lineup, but it had seating for five with reasonable cargo space. It may have been an entry-level Lexus, but it still came well-equipped with a cabin rich in high-end materials and a premium vibe. By the end of the NX 300’s run in 2021, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ were standard with an eight-inch display or an available 10.3-inch display. Instead of a touchscreen, the NX 300 used the Lexus Remote Touch controller, which was challenging to use, even when not driving. Three trim levels were available, and all were powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with front- or all-wheel drive.
Explore the evolution of the Lexus NX 300
Get our expert take on used Lexus NX 300 models, or view year-by-year changes.
First generation Lexus NX 300
While still in its first generation, the Lexus NX received a significant refresh in 2018, along with a new name: NX 300. With styling cues similar to those of its larger RX sibling, the NX was initially available in two trim levels: the base NX 300 and the F Sport, featuring a sport-tuned suspension, sport seats, and unique exterior styling. In 2020, the Luxury trim was added, featuring higher-end amenities such as heated and ventilated front seats and a power moonroof. Lexus also included the latest advanced driver-assistance systems across all trim levels, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with pedestrian and bicycle detection, and available rear cross-traffic alert.
Since its introduction in 2015, the Lexus NX has featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. With front- or all-wheel drive, the NX 300 delivered reasonable performance and commendable fuel efficiency, achieving an EPA-estimated 28 mpg on the highway. Lexus also offered the hybrid NX 300h, which is covered separately.
Model highlights
Fuel-efficient turbocharged engine
Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ (added in 2019 and 2020, respectively)
Remote Touch infotainment system with a touchpad instead of a touchscreen
Available all-wheel drive
Available 14-speaker Mark Levinson audio system
Changes by year
Latest generation from 2018 - 2021
2021 Lexus NX 300
Highlights
Standard blind-spot monitoring
Final year of the first-generation NX
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2020 Lexus NX 300
2019 Lexus NX 300
2018 Lexus NX 300
Highlights
Replaced the NX 200t
New standard driver-assistance tech
Updated infotainment system
Updated exterior styling
Learn more
Perry Stern has been writing about cars for almost 30 years and has been an enthusiast for much longer than that. Contributing to multiple automotive publications, Perry drives almost every new car on the market, ranging from base-level Kias to exotic high-performance Lamborghinis. But his favorite is still the 2006 Mazda Miata parked in his garage.
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