Lexus NX Due for an Update, says ‘Business 2 Community’
The Lexus NX has been with us since 2015. According to Business 2 Community it still offers a lot of luxury, though an update is needed.
It’s seems hard to believe that the sharply creased Lexus NX 300h hybrid compact crossover has been around since 2015. But it’s still here in basically the same form as when it was first unveiled. As Nigel Atkinson of Business 2 Community found out, the NX still embodies a lot of Lexus goodness. But the aging model isn’t without its flaws. “The front seats are supportive and comfortable,” says Business 2 Community, “there’s plenty of cargo room, the power-train is smooth and efficient and the ride quality is Lexus quiet….what more could you want?” A bit more, as it turns out.
Business 2 Community reviewed the NX 300h version, which is part of the problem. Even though the hybrid version of the NX is the most expensive variant, it’s underpowered. The all-wheel-drive 300h relies on a 2.5-liter gasoline engine at the front axle and a 67 horsepower electric motor at the rear axle. The total comes to 194 horsepower and a leisurely stroll to 60-mph in a yawn inducing 8.3-seconds. For buyers who need more performance, Business 2 Community feels that the 300t is the better choice with its 235 horsepower inline-4 that belts it to 60-mph in a more respectable 6.9-seconds. Though it’s slow, the 300h still embodies most of the qualities we’ve come to expect from a Lexus. “It’s a smooth, quiet, very fuel-efficient premium crossover that you can drive serenely from A to B,” says Business 2 Community. “It’s not exciting to drive because it’s not supposed to be. Get the 300t if you want some speed.”
Another aspect of the 300H that came under fire was the center console. “It’s a mess and has Lexus’ frustrating track-pad, which are usually fine just not while I’m driving, and it’s not even easy to use while parked. I found it best to simply set everything up while parked.” Elsewhere though things weren’t so bad. Business 2 Community found the interior overall comfortable with a premium feel you would expect of a Lexus. “The NX Premium gets a host of goodies including Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa functionality.” There is also decent room for rear passengers and cargo, but the rear of the cabin lacks USB ports.
The reviewers also had good things to say about the ride and handling, which proved comfortable over tough San Diego roads. One thing it is definitely not is sporty in any way. Though it has a Sport mode, it’s pointless. Better to keep it in Normal or Eco mode. “It’s a very relaxed cruiser on the highway,” says Business 2 Community. “Remember the NX 300 h is built for comfort and economy, not speed.” Even after five years the NX’s styling has held up well. Business 2 Community says the design looks fresh, with a huge front grill that evokes Darth Vader. The Premium model that was tested came in at just under $50,000 thanks to a bevy of options on top of the $39,070 base price. If you’re considering an NX, at this point it may be best to wait for its replacement.
Photos: Lexus
