The 2021 Lexus NX 300 Luxury – SMALL SIZE, BIG COMFORT

The 2021 Lexus NX 300 Luxury

SMALL SIZE, BIG COMFORT

It’s always good to experience a well-built vehicle, with quality finishes everywhere and excellent interior styling. The 2021 NX 300 Luxury is a great example of how good a vehicle can be. The NX 300 model I tested was an extremely well-equipped vehicle with high-tech features (of course) and lots of extras. The total price of this vehicle (excluding tax, title and license) is just a shade over $52,000, and that sticker comes with tons of safety features and a 2.0 liter turbocharged engine that delivers 235hp. 

The NX 300’s interior is a very light-colored leather yellow matched by the light yellow headliner and black trim. The sound system is incredible, a Mark Levinson™ high-end system which comes packaged with the NAV system option. It is equipped with a CD player so you can take full advantage of the sound quality. The info system is easy to read, and not so large that it becomes distracting. Legroom is great with reclining backseats, and the only ergonomic issue is the A-pillar; it is steeply angled, and when you’re getting in and out of the vehicle you tend to hit your head – and I’m not very tall. 

The only negative thing I see in this vehicle is the square keypad that Toyota and Lexus have been using for a long time; most people find it very difficult to use – as it’s not very user-friendly. (Why they haven’t changed it is beyond me.) Performance gets you in and out of traffic fast, and there is plenty of power to merge onto the freeway. The brakes and steering are very good. The NX300 is very quiet, and wind noise is minimal. 

I would say everything about this vehicle is extremely comfortable. There is cargo space in the hatch for long trips, and I don’t know whether it’s what I would consider a fun vehicle to drive. With its safety rating, the only place where it falls short is the frontal crash testing: it is only a 4-star for driver and passenger. Fuel economy is pretty good,  generally getting 22 to 24 around town and 28 mpg on the highway. 

If you’re looking for a luxurious around-town vehicle. this may be a good choice, although there are so many in this category. I’ll guess the closest competition is provided by the compact Mercedes and Infiniti crossovers. 

And on another note: It’s nice to see manufacturers getting away (FINALLY!) from the old black, grey and brown interiors, and putting a touch of color inside. Some OEMs are even coming up with some great exterior colors…and it’s about time.