The NX isn’t the newest Lexus crossover, but for 2018, the two-row compact model gets some welcomed upgrades for its third birthday. Most noticeable is its name; gone is the 200t nomenclature and present is the new NX 300 designation. Not surprisingly, the name has nothing to do with engine displacement or power specs.
Tell me about the cosmetic changes
Lexus’ big Spindle Grille gets bigger for 2018 on F-Sport models with added grilles below the fishhook daytime running lights. The rear bumper and taillights are also revised for a more menacing stance. New 18-inch wheels can be optioned in summer-performance Bridgestone tires for some added credibility to the NX’s appearance. The non-F-Sport models get a slight visual update, too.
Inside, the 2018 NX 300 has a larger trackpad for the Enform infotainment system. Upgrade to the navigation package and the eight-inch screen increases to a 10.3-inch unit. Sadly, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are still missing.
Fans of active safety equipment will love knowing the Lexus Safety System+ now comes standard. The system includes things like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, and blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert.
Turbo power under the hood
As we mentioned, the engine is still the now-familiar 2.0-liter turbo-four making 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, but our tester is fitted with AWD. Regardless, the NX 300 uses a six-speed automatic transmission. The EPA estimates the AWD model to get 22 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined.
What it’ll cost you
Lexus quietly tacked on a small price increase for 2018. The base 2018 NX 300 in FWD starts at $35,985. Our NX 300 F-Sport with more than $8,700 worth of options lists for $49,564. That’s a pretty penny for a compact crossover, but the NX’s long list of features and intimidating styling might sweeten the proposition.
We’ll be posting a full review of the updated 2018 Lexus NX 300 F-Sport soon, but in the meantime, tell us what you want to know about this model. We’ll answer interesting questions in the review, along with replying to your comments below.
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