Lexus NX 300 F Sport Review: A Striking Blend of Style and Performance
Introduction
The Lexus NX 300 F Sport–a name that evokes intrigue and curiosity among car enthusiasts. Is it all just marketing hype, or does this compact luxury SUV stand out?
After spending a week behind the wheel of the NX 300 F Sport, we’ll see that this SUV is more than a gimmick. From its sharp exterior and sporty design to its turbocharged performance and thoughtfully crafted interiors, the Lexus NX 300 F Sport promises to impress. But does it deliver everything it claims? We’ll explore every detail —design and driving dynamics to comfort and fuel efficiency–to find out.
If you’re a car enthusiast or a tech-savvy driver looking for the perfect combination of luxury, athleticism, and practicality, buckle up as we explore what makes the Lexus NX 300 F Sport tick.
Exterior Design: Stylish with Striking Attitude
The Lexus NX 300 F Sport immediately captures attention with its aggressive and purposeful stance. Its bold spindle grille, sharp LED headlights, and sleek lines exude a sense of athleticism that draws you in. Lexus has perfectly matched visual aesthetics with subtle sophistication, allowing this SUV to stand out in a crowded market.
What makes the design pop?
- Distinctive Grille: The signature F Sport spindle grille adds a menacing edge.
- Sporty Accents: Exclusive F Sport badging and high-contrast exterior details enhance its unmistakable image.
- Stunning Wheels: The 18-inch alloy wheels complete its sporty vibe.
It’s fair to say “striking” is an understatement when describing the NX 300 F Sport’s looks.
Interior Comfort and Practicality
First Impressions Matter
Step inside the Lexus NX 300 F Sport, and you’re greeted with an interior that blends practicality and flair. The sporty red leather seats immediately set the tone, and there’s an undeniable sense of luxury and intention.
The Comfort Highlights
- F Sport Bucket Seats
These ergonomically designed bucket-style seats are supportive and luxurious, providing excellent comfort for long drives without compromising style.
- Soft-Touch Leather
Shockingly soft leather accents elevate the premium feel of the cabin.
- Ergonomic Controls
Lexus nailed the ergonomics, placing everything–air conditioning controls, steering wheel adjustments, and seat settings–within easy reach.
That said, while the practicality shines, the overall layout feels slightly conservative compared to its avant-garde exterior.
Infotainment System
Anyone familiar with Lexus knows the struggle of their infotainment systems. The NX 300’s “mousepad” control interface is a noticeable improvement over previous models, thanks to easier placement and usability. However, it still feels cumbersome compared to competitors’ more intuitive systems.
Under the Hood: Performance and Driving Dynamics
At its centre, the Lexus NX 300 F Sport is controlled by a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-four motor. It conveys 235 pull and 258 lb-ft of force, which gives vivacious speed increase.
Driving Experience
- Turbocharged Thrills
The boost kicks in at mid-range RPMs, providing an exciting burst of power that makes overtaking on the highway a breeze. The engine produces a satisfying rasp as it approaches its redline, adding a layer of excitement.
- Handling
The F Sport suspension tuning helps the NX 300 maintain sharp handling, making winding roads fun to explore.
- Paddle Shifters
For those who love a hands-on experience, the paddle shifters allow you to take control and maximize the SUV’s turbocharged potential.
Available Drivetrains
The NX 300 comes with two drivetrain options:
- Front-Wheel Drive (Standard)
- All-Wheel Drive (Optional)
The AWD version is worth considering for added traction and confidence in all weather conditions.
Fuel Economy
This is one area where the Lexus NX 300 F Sport could improve.
- Highway Mileage: Struggles to exceed 27 MPG.
- Combined Fuel Economy: A modest 22 MPG.
These numbers are underwhelming for a compact luxury, especially for drivers who prioritize efficiency.
What Makes the F Sport Package Special?
Adding the F Sport badge isn’t just a marketing gimmick. Here’s what the F Sport package brings to the table:
- Exclusive styling elements like the spindle grille and sporty accents.
- Tuned suspension for sportier handling.
- F Sport bucket seats for enhanced support and comfort.
It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s an effective way to elevate the NX 300’s sporty appeal.
Features to Love
Versatility in Configurations
The Lexus NX 300 F Sport is available in two configurations to suit different driving needs:
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): Great for casual city commutes with better efficiency.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): For those who demand better control and grip in diverse driving conditions.
Technology Highlights:
- Tasting Technology: From adaptive cruise control to smartphone integration, the NX 300 has modern tech features, although some competitors may still outshine it on seamlessness.
- Driver Assistance: Safety systems like Lexus Safety System+ provide peace of mind for tech-loving drivers who value advanced driver-assistance tools.
The Bottom Line
The Lexus NX 300 F Sport is an impressive luxury crossover with striking looks, a comfortable interior, solid performance, and a sense of flair. While the infotainment system and fuel efficiency leave room for improvement, its sharp handling and turbocharged engine deliver plenty of fun behind the wheel.
For those seeking a sporty yet practical SUV that stands out, the NX 300 F Sport is worth considering.
FAQs
Q1: What’s the price of the Lexus NX 300 F Sport?
The starting MSRP for the NX 300 F Sport is around $41,000, but prices can vary depending on options and trims.
Q2: Is the NX 300 F Sport reliable?
Yes, Lexus is widely recognized for its reliability—the NX 300 shares this reputation, offering peace of mind for long-term ownership.
Q3: What are some competitors to the NX 300 F Sport?
Key competitors include the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Mercedes-Benz GLC. Each offers a unique take on the luxury compact SUV segment.
Q4: Does the NX 300 F Sport come in a hybrid version?
Yes, Lexus offers a hybrid version known as the NX 300h that provides better fuel efficiency while maintaining smooth performance.
Q5: How does the NX 300 F Sport perform in snowy conditions?
With the optional all-wheel drive system, the NX 300 F Sport delivers improved traction and control, making it a reliable choice for snowy climates.
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