Flash Drive

2021 Lexus NX 300h

December 9, 2020 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2021 Lexus NX 300h Luxury

The 2021 Lexus 300h is a midsize luxury SUV that’s both pleasant to drive daily and in foul weather.

Engine:2.5-liter I-4, 194 total system horsepower

Transmission: CVT automatic, all-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 33-mpg city, 30-mpg highway, 31-mpg combined

Base Price: $46,510

As Tested: $52,855

Performance:

Smooth, comfortable highway ride

Seamless auto stop/start

OK fuel economy—we averaged 30.6-mpg

The Lexus 300h is sharply styled, almost coupe-like from the rear 3/4 view.

Smooth transmission

Dial next to shifter for Eco, Normal, Sport

Separate button for EV mode

Elevated SUV ride height, short overhangs

Well-integrated safety features

Standard blind spot monitoring

Comfort:

Spacious, comfortable interior

Quality interior materials

Supportive front seats with semi-deep bolsters

Interior comfort and space are Lexus strong points, especially in the front row.

Heated and ventilated front seats (3 temps)

Driver power lumbar support

Stretch-out front legroom

Adult size rear seat with fine knee room

Minimal floor hump

An adult can fit in middle position, but cushion is quite firm

Adjustable upper cushion for rear seats

Wonderful, thick, contoured, heated leather steering wheel

Power tilt/telescopic column with large range

Ample auxiliary controls

Utility:

Power liftgate with great clearance

Flat cargo deck

No lift-over

Radically sloped roofline affects cargo space

Driver legroom and controls are all great in the 2021 Lexus NX 300h.

Modest amount of small storage under deck

Rear seat room is adult size even in the middle position when the wide armrest isn’t being used.

Split folding seats have slight slant

Power folding side mirrors

Large infotainment screen

Big, deep console bin

Large, locking glovebox

Two large seatback pouches

Small rear door bins

WOW Factors:

Sharp edged styling sets it apart from crossover crowd

Upscale, roomy, comfortable interior

The cargo deck is flat and the split folding rear seats increase versatility, but the sloped roof does affect cargo capacity.

Comprehensive safety features

Excellent reliability history

Whines:

Limited rear seat small item storage

Touchpad control slightly jumpy

Bottom Line:

The 2021 Lexus NX 300h is largely unchanged from 2020, which means it retains its spacious, luxurious interior, chiseled styling, and efficient fuel economy. Its compact size belies its roomy interior and pampered ride qualities. Passenger space is great and cargo space is OK, although the sloped roofline limits bulky items. Overall, the 2021 Lexus NX 300h is a distinctive blend of comfort, luxury, all-weather drivability, and fuel economy.