2015 Lexus NX 200t and NX 300h Detailed Review and Road Test

[@rrrogster]

This guy has got to be the best reviewer out there. His detailed knowledge is incredible and he really knows his stuff. He doesn't use a lot of vague and meaningless terms like "awesome" or "sick". I really liked the rating system he assigned do different parts of the vehicle, explaining in depth why he give it that particular rating. He covers every aspect of the vehicle with more detail than I could absorb on the first pass. So I listened to it twice and did learn more useful information. GREAT REVIEW!!!!!

[@CRHK88]

I actually leased this vehicle when it came out. It was a deal too good to pass up (end of year, dealer incentives, dealer with too many, etc.), and as much as I didn't like the design, I couldn't pass. It was a company vehicle, so I knew that I would be out of it in 3 years. That being said, now that I am at the end of my lease I can tell you that out of all of the cars I have driven in my life, including numerous Acuras, Lexus, BMW, Mercedes, etc., this one has gotten the most compliments. Seriously. I was actually shocked at first, and my wife still jokes about it because she knew how disappointed I was to "have to" drive it for 3 years. I got the Atomic Silver, added some black wheels and tinted the windows and I have been told that it looks very Range Roverish. Again, I didn't plan to own it, but now that I am getting ready to trade it in for a larger vehicle, I can say that it grew on me. It was actually a very competent vehicle, did great in the Midwestern winters with lots of lake effect snow, and on steep grades with Blizzaks. Locking differential was VERY useful and the trackpad ended up being a great feature...although I hated it at the beginning. I know this is an old review, I just thought I would post a reply now that I have driven the vehicle for the entire lease. It has been reliable as expected, being a Lexus, 46,000 miles, no major issues. Kind of sad to see it go. lol

[@Nonyabuisness90]

Thanks for your comment! I’m looking at a 2016 cpo nx for my next vehicle Any gripes?

[@CRHK88]

@@Nonyabuisness90 Not really, I never had a mechanical issue with that car at all, typical Lexus reliability. It was a bummer that it didn't have Apple CarPlay, but that's about it. I was actually surprised that with good snow tires, it could more than hold its own against anything else I have driven. I would have kept it if I didn't need something larger for work. Good luck.

[@TheCEPELE]

Planning to lease nx 300h 2018 facelift. This comment helped to come to final decision for sure :) tx

[@gg56279]

wow this is probably the best review of the NX so far

[@tumee1661]

i have been looking for a good crossover for a long time and everytime when i interested in a certain car I always come to your channel and want to know what your review said. Alex you are truly best car reviewer! wish you the best man

[@GrzegorzHoffmannGoogle]

wow, Alex, I'm impressed with the review - comprehensive with all the details which matter, I appreciate the most the often comparisons you make to other cars (like something is smaller than xc60, but it is bigger than x3, etc.) that allows me immediately understand what the car may be like in real life, Thanks, I hope for more in the future

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@luc7976]

Great review. Alex: any word from Lexus if these features will be offered here (available in Japan): - Pano roof - HUD display - 360 camera views

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The HUD should be but there is no NX with a 360 camera sadly.

[@luc7976]

Alex on Autos Just noticed Lexus UK released pricing with Oct. release date for hybrid (next year turbo) and they do offer 360 pano view in highest trim level. So hopefully we'll get same choices. Then again not sure how often 360 camera view is useful in US when parking is typically more spacious.

[@luc7976]

Lucien E Update: just saw order guide and unfortunately no Pano, 360 or HUD on 300t (so most likely neither turbo model).

[@tonyajones8655]

I think I'm gonna wait for the pano roof 2023?

[@AlternativeUses]

Great review as usual. I didn't know that reviews for this came out already. Nice job snagging one early

[@luc7976]

I do wonder why did Lexus already provide cars to press if it will be released in December? I thought it would be released Oct/Nov but not much info yet from Lexus.

[@luc7976]

Chris Kelly Congrats:-). I know it's released in Europe in Oct. (and turbo next year?). Seems weird Lexus already shows US spec'd demo models and not release it until Dec. Then again Europe already has full pricing info unlike US but hopefully it will be close to Europe's release schedule.

[@luc7976]

Lucien E Lexus just announced November for US for both models (but unfortunately no pano, 360 cameras or HUD options it seems).

[@thejollystorm5086]

wow, this guy is impressive! great review.

[@ReginaldKSon]

Very well done, as with all of your reviews. I have research and buying confidence after watching one of your segments. Please keep it up. Question - does the hybrid version require premium fuel or just the turbo?

[@xihaxihaxihaxiha]

best auto review on youtube! hands down.

[@MrOscillot]

Anyone else notice the gauge displays an Infiniti logo at 13:46? Great job as always, Alex.

[@DanielChristopher96]

Great review! I am absolutely in love with this vehicle regardless of the fact that I typically favor sedans and coupes. I would actually consider this as a car I'd love to drive myself, but I wish it offered the 3.5L V6. Overall I consider this to be the best exemplification of Lexus' design standpoint (especially the grille and head/tail lamps) alongside the upcoming RC.

[@4N2IN0JA]

That's an awesome steering wheel. I like the whole look of the car, it has a luxurious, sporty nature I think.

[@Elgin-wi8nf]

Alex, your reviews are excellent. IMO, they are the best.

[@anyday82]

Great review! Thanks Alex!

[@siberian13]

I am deciding between this and a 2017 Acura RDX (certified preowned). As a long time Audi driver, I always loved the understated elegance, quattro all wheel drive, and driving feel of Audis. However having owned three Audis I can no longer stomach the massive repair bills that inevitably start after going over 100k miles. This is true for all German cars, sadly. Every mechanic I spoke to said buy a Honda/Acura or Toyota/Lexus product and you’ll have fewer headaches when the odometer starts getting up there. With that said, I’m not super crazy about that nose overhang on the NX, but I think it’s a compromise I’m willing to live with as a tradeoff for long term reliability.

[@Portraitpatt1]

Same here! Which one did you go with?

[@srtor]

Fantastic review! Thank you.

[@corradomr2]

The NX is stunning and glad you were first to market on such a thorough review. 3000 per month sles targeted by Lexus will be easily attainable in the US.

[@professorb3843]

this Crossover from Lexus is damn good imagine the Fsport welldone Lexus now were talking

[@alau0115]

Really great review -- very detailed and despite doing research on this NX, you have pointed out some interesting features/details which were not known to me. Also the comments are very decent and fair. The only thing is can you speak a bit slower -- it is a very well-packed video session. :)

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I know what you mean, I played back the video and thought "yikes I was speed talking!"

[@thomasczarnowski2267]

Alex, you are simply the best.

[@dhunckyn]

I just found your channel and have to say you did a great review. I think the NX 300h would be perfect for my mother.

[@chanmanVegas]

Excellent review!

[@iNFECTED_pIE]

Looks like a freaking spacecraft, not that I'm saying that's a bad thing! Kudos to them for being a bit more adventurous with the styling.

[@techexplorer9382]

Great Review ! Looking forward to the NX review of the Hybrid . Thanks Joe

[@Wrist-rolls]

That wireless Qi charger is a really nice touch. Don't think I have seen that from anyone else.

[@EvanderSmart]

Great review, Alex! Learned many small details other reviewers missed. The NX F-Sport looks like the way to go. The grille is much better and natural. You get better seats and interior details, more standard equipment, and the larger wheels and tires. It looks closest to the concept car. Will definitely attract attention anywhere. Lexus is tired of trying to fit in, and is ready to stand out!

[@captarcega]

Is the lexus nx awd system good for heavy rains/slipper surfaces, compared to vw tiguan 4motion ?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

captarcega the NX and Tiguan AWD systems are essentially identical in theme and basically the same in performance.

[@captarcega]

Thanks alex

[@sinakhansari1]

I like how the videos are presented. good job

[@ReneBarba]

Yesterday i went to an outlet mall and i saw two Chevy Captivas. One from Washington and one from California, I remember the video you did when i saw them.

[@cadsux]

While I'm not a big fan of the spindle grille, I do think it looks appropriate on the NX. Why do modern cars have two air openings/grilles, one between the headlights, and one between the foglights? In some vehicles like the Dodge Dart, Ford Edge, Hyundai Veloster Turbo, they "black out" the bumper area between these openings so they appear as one. From an aerodynamic standpoint, is a grille between the headlights necessary, since most cars intake air from below? And some even have vents that close at freeway speeds. Thanks for another great review.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Depending on the design of the cooling system, the additional cooling may be required, especially with turbocharged engines and at low speeds.

[@freds4764]

Lexus and Acura IMO make the best vehicles for the money. You can not beat their reliability. I don't know what Lexus was thinking when they put that cheap looking black plastic around the wheel wheels. The nav screen looks like an afterthought. They designed the dash and than said whoops we forgot the nav screen so we will velcro an aftermarket one on top of the dash. Both these are enough for me to keep my RX350. Shame because the rest of the vehicle looks great.

[@peterc8979]

Great review !

[@NileshR12]

What's the name of this color? It looks amazing!

[@takhayc]

Were you in Banff, Alberta? I thought I saw the Rockies. Hope you enjoyed your stay, and please do come visit again. Bring the whole family next time. British Columbia have lots of wildlifes and great drives.

[@luc7976]

Whistler / Blackcomb BC.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Lucien got it, Whistler.

[@yung-chinchen2228]

It is a very good review. Thanks. One question: I heard the visibility is very poor in NX, as poor as RAV4. Is that true? Thanks.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

It is only slightly reduced vs the Q5 and X3 and I would say similar to the XC60, RDX and GLK

[@ho560402]

Alex you the homie!

[@nicholasscanlon3539]

No 300h 2015 review

[@michaeltorres2377]

Awesome review! Any info. on the tow rating for the turbo? Also, was the F Sport ride much firmer or uncomfortable compared to the base turbo?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

2,000lbs but it requires the luxury package for some reason. The F-sport is firmer but it wasn't harsh.

[@DanielBlaney]

Have you done the MKC yet. If not can we expect it very soon?

[@Baruka88]

i wish the rear wiper was tucked up beneath the rear spoiler like on the RX - i think its a much better look and i wonder why more manufacturers dont do this.

[@goofydog2]

Great finding someone who knows his 'stuff!' Thanks. My question relates to the screen. It looks much like the screen on the 2014 CT which I drove recently. I found the screen on the CT to be a tad small for my 65 year old eyes. but more importantly, there was a slight persistent glare (especially near the bottom) that interfered with easy usage. Did you find the screen on the NX to be clear and void of glare? Thanks Again...

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The angle and coating help reduce glare but the screen does "seem small". Part of this is that it is actually small at 7-inches but the rest is really how far it is away from the driver. The Volvo and Mercedes both use 7-inch screens as well but they place them much closer to the driver so they seem larger in person.

[@IanPutt1]

Good report, thanks.

[@azhariqbal1212]

Love the looks of F sport model, but I want in hybrid so what you do?

[@Portareaf]

Surprise video? Nice!

[@PunxsutawneyDave]

Great review and a beautiful car. Alex says it's pre production so I wonder how much it will change by December.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The look won't change at all, all that should change according to Lexus is final pricing and a possible tweak to the option packages.

[@baldheadlogic]

Great review...I would be curious to find out the tank size and the requirement of premium fuel.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Fuel capacity is 15.9 US Gal and the 200t recommends premium while the 300h recommends regular.

[@baldheadlogic]

Thanks

[@RobertLeBlancPhoto]

I'm looking forward to a more thorough review from you on this. It seems to basically be a near luxury version of the Rav4, which is exactly what many middle class couples and small families want these days. How is the AWD performance with this? While I don't expect it to be as good as the new Forester, I hope it's better than the current Rav4.

[@Daniel-Condurachi]

actually it's a bit worse than the Rav4 in regards to off-road because of decreased clearance. Otherwise it's the same in the AWD performance. The next version of the rav4 got a better drivetrain and a bit more intelligent AWD system. But the NX will get updated as well in the end

[@SINGH-ing]

Is backseat more roomier than Venza on this? I m asking as you didn't mention Venza in the chart.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The Venza is a bit bigger in the back.

[@SINGH-ing]

Great, thanks

[@zachtravers]

I really like these, but I hope that the EPA bumps the mpg up because the 2014 RX350 AWD only gets a few mpg short of this 2.0 I4

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The RX350 is fairly efficient but they aren't terribly far apart because the NX isn't much lighter. The hybrid however does post better numbers than the RX hybrid however the performance is lower.

[@1989rs500]

Alex on Autos Lincoln MKC vs Lexus NX200t,, I think they are pretty good rivals

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

For some reason Lexus' research doesn't think they will compete due to size and the pricing. It';s hard to say since I haven't driven the MKC but it does look like a very attractive option.

[@1989rs500]

Alex on Autos Yea, MKC starts at 33500 $ a fully loaded 2.0 turbo MKC costs just 40000 $ and for that money I think its damn good, if AWD is priority better be ready to spent upto 50000 $

[@EvanderSmart]

jandj Godwin Lincoln NEEDS to charge much less than Lexus, since it is a clear step down in desirability, brand strength, and quality. This will easily sell more then the MKC, just as the Lexus ES sells twice as much as the MKZ sedan

[@disgaearules23]

i think it looks quite nice

[@vbjrepairman]

Great review Alex. Would you recommend this over the rdx. Specially regarding the rear seat roominess. I recall you saying that the rdx back seat was larger than the competition. I routinely have 2 adults and a child seat in the back. Thanks for the videos again.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The RDX has really become the Acura answer to the Lexus RX so it's a decent amount larger than the RDX inside. Although I haven 't had a chance to do a child seat test in the NX yet, I suspect the RDX will be the better vehicle because of the larger dimensions.

[@vbjrepairman]

Thanks

[@29reload]

I like the fact the design is different and out of this world. Being from Europe the German cars are way too conservative in design and the only thing they change on them are the shapes of the lights like every year. Again another advanced, excellent design from lexus. Can't wait to get one of these. Will be part exchanging my 2014 bmw x3 when this lexus is launched in Europe.

[@Humanafterall888]

Hi Alex. Saw you use the Canon Camcorder. Is that VIXIA HF G20? Great camcorder! Not much to say about the Lexus. But again great video! Thanks

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I use two Canon XA20 cameras, an HF G30 as a backup and several GoPros

[@KOz1caa]

Good Day Alex, Nice review. Do you happen to remember what the engine oil grade was?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

It looks like Lexus has not said yet. I would suspect 5W30

[@dakingofgeese]

1:40 Hello!

[@Elgin-wi8nf]

Alex, will the NX feature a head up display? Thanks.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Yes it will be an option, possibly late availability.

[@heyitsyeh]

Did the back bumper just bend a little when you pressed on it with your index finger?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Slightly, but remember that is just the bumper cover, so you do want a little flex before you hit something more solid, it provides more protection in a minor bump. You have the bnumper cover, then usually a space, then high density foam, then you have a metal safety bumper.

[@future62]

Excellent review as always Alex. 2 questions. 1, how fast is the NX300h to 60? And 2, what would you buy... new NX300h, or used RX400h? This thing is so damn sexy, in and out. I really want an NX300h for my wife.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The 300h is around 8.5 seconds or so. Personally I think I'd buy the new NX300h. As much as I dislike the touchpad it's better than the joystick the RX uses and overall I like the way the NX drives and looks.

[@RealtimeReviews613]

Alex! Why do some of your videos not show up in my feed?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I will never understand how KZbin shares the videos in feeds. For some reason channels I subscribe to display only randomly in my feed.

[@blisshomes8784]

Is it better than X3 ?

[@jepak7436]

@3:31"very attractive nike swoosh headlamps?" are you freaking kidding me?

[@mikeschlup4164]

is a high end audio system an option?

[@paulrayer3496]

What does NX stand for ?

[@cupojava123]

was under the impression that hybrid would take regular gas like the ES. Not true? I was hoping Lexus would steer away from premium fuel...

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The hybrid does run on regular but the turbo recommends premium. All engines will operate safely on regular but you won't get the HP or MPGs claimed.

[@cupojava123]

Alex on Autos Thanks Alex. Do you know if Lexus intends to offer the F-Sport package in the hybrid for N.A? I saw it in some previous promotional pix...Very interested in getting that particular combo in AWD. Cheers!

[@nateawzom13]

Which car in its class is best to you?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I think the RDX is the best value under $40,000, the X3 35i is the best handling and the best overall is the XC60 T6 AWD.

[@mightee23]

Alex on Autos I'm a sucker for the technology package, which on do you think is the best out of this class and the best value? I'm intrigued by the NXs tech. I heard RDX was bad but I'd like you opinion. Thanks.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

John Paul Dagdag I think the RDX is the best value. It doesn't have as many features as the competition but it is well priced. The XC60, NX and Q5 also represent excellent value.

[@futurebillionare1888]

do toyota land cruiser please...

[@spidermandj3]

Nice vehicle

[@EdgarArceo]

Sounds all good, but you cannot find an NX-300H for less than $49,000! For that amount, I might as well get an Audi Q5 quattro premium plus, TDI or Hybrid!

[@omgitsme435]

omg the car looks like a child's vehicle next to you. then again, the size I guess helps the sporty feeling of it while driving even though it's numbers certainly don't illustrate that.

[@khw0ng_]

I kinda like this

[@juanzingarello4005]

I used to love this CUV up until I found out the Mark Levinson sound system with the Clari-Fi feature, Adaptive Variable Suspension, and the around-view camera was not making its way to the US market even though these features are available elsewhere in the world. I really don't understand why these companies feel American customers are undeserving of having a vehicle that is equally equipped as the ones offered elsewhere. It's as if they are convinced we're retarded and won't notice this.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I would not be surprised if Lexus makes them available in a short time. The NX is supposedly not expected to sell as well in the USA as in the EU. Personally I think it will sell better than they expect and I agree that they should offer those features here.

[@juanzingarello4005]

Alex on Autos Somebody made a point that possibly makes sense hopefully it's the case. If these features are available now the NX will be much more equipped than the outgoing RX and essentially it would probably severely cannabalize the RX until the RX itself gets redesigned. Ive heard different rumors on the next-generation RX one of them being it will be stretched with a 3rd-row to better compete with the Acura MDX and Infiniti QX60. But I also heard of a 3-row CUV will replace the GX to battle the MDX and QX60 to be known as the TX. In any case my point is if the RX will remain a 5-passenger CUV they will probably release that new RX with vastly more features and then start adding features to the NX. But for now, the NX would be more equipped than the aging outgoing RX and that will hurt the RX.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Juan Zingarello I suspect there is no way around the NX taking RX sales, it's the better vehicle honestly. Lexus' sales projections for the USA showed incredibly small numbers for the NX while they expect 1/3 of brand sales in the USA to be the RX still. Somehow I think that's off, features or not.

[@JJFLD]

I think that it's ridiculous that car companys don't give Americans all the options on a car but do elsewhere. Just like we can't have the Lexus is 300h hybrid in America. We cant have Lexus's own car infant seats, roof racks, Traker Plus stolen car locator, (Lexus Enform dose the same thing) the European safety kit, panoramic moonroof on the RX and NX, etc. I thinking that they only ask the people who are idiots what they want options wise in America. It kinda just want to make you go over seas to buy the car you want. However, European it the U.K. dont get the IS 350, RX 350, LS 460 RC 350, GS 350, GX 460, ES 350 & 300h, or LX570. So while we don't get all the options, others don't all the variety of cars to chose from. I still however would like to see Lexus bring back the IS220d diesel back and introduceing it to America.

[@mx5hong]

I guess that little mirror would come in handy if you're stuck in the middle of nowhere. Just hang the mirror to a tree branch so the search party could find you.

[@KanjoosMakhichoos]

This is cheating! You guys put the Lexus and Audi on the 20% grade which had ice formed under the right hand wheels as well! And on the 30% grade there was no such ice buildup! Also the Lexus and Audi's wheels were only slipping when the right wheels were slipping as well!

[@DanielBlaney]

What is up with all the luxury automakers not including touch screens. Its freaking stupid. The mounted tablet looking screens need to go as well. They look awful.

[@TheRoyalking761]

Remind me of the Nissan Juke

[@Private36587]

Yuck!

[@OneRaceKorea12]

The center console looks like this car was designed in the early 2000s. And what's with the ugly bucktooth front design? This is the worst designed SUV in this segment. I would much rather buy the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe or 2015 KIA Sorento which sport more attractive designs and have the same interior luxury as the Lexus. RIP Lexus.

[@stefanschmidt6490]

StealthTechz All the recent Lexus designs are so ugly..

[@GuoMao86cn]

StealthTechz The best looking SUV of 2015/2016 is the 2016 Hyundai Tucson coming out in August.

[@davidbennett9198]

StealthTechz Don't buy a Lexus if you want a premium car

[@ForzaItaliaAzzurri7]

Achtung! The 2016 Hyundai Tucson is the best looking SUV in this segment.

[@milanofootball294]

StealthTechz Unfortunately the recent trend of ugly Lexus models is going to continue for at least 3 years because it's the beginning of the design cycle for Lexus.

[@haroldthetubeman711]

my fj cruiser gets 21mpg avg. this is depressing

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

If you're getting 21 MPG then you're getting 17% above the EPA numbers. Translating that to the NX you'd get 28 in the turbo and 38 in the hybrid. That's a huge reduction in expense vs 21 MPG

[@haroldthetubeman711]

Maybe so, but can the NX crawl rocks? :-)

[@ashrick718]

Those rims are small

[@omgitsme435]

I think the center console looks rather dated. The buttons are just laid out flat and perfectly perpendicular to each other. The plastic looks dull and cheap, very Toyota and not fit for a $50,000 luxury vehicle.

[@skipperbonus3154]

I think this car needs its glasses back, those eyes are gonna stay that way. That new grille looks particularly awkward on this car, definitely not the business.

[@cinqo7]

Ugly glorified RAV 4 though the RAV 4 looks way better. I won't be paying a premium price for the NX when it can easily be mistaken for a cheap Hyundai, Kia or chinese brand.

[@sundaybaje919]

You can't afford it...

[@uk574]

I don't like the exterior styling, IMO it looks like crushed Coke can.

[@marinoint]

To the chief designer of Lexus: I know you are a huge fan of Nike, but please keep it to yourself. Until then, I'd never buy a Lexus.

[@phosphodiesterase]

Ugly looking. I wouldn't keep this car if it was given to me.

[@azhariqbal1212]

Love the looks of F sport model, but I want in hybrid so what you do?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

You could attempt to graft an F-Sport bumper onto the hybrid. It should fit.

[@whitestrips1]

Alex on Autos Alex, I love your reviews. Imo, they are some of the best on the internet. I was wondering if you can do a review on the 2015 BMW X3?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

whitestrips1 I'll see what I can get scheduled :)

[@cacooma]

There is an FSport version of the hybrid that comes with that grill

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

ahmels There is an F-Sport Hybrid, just not in North America. I was able to see and sit in it, but this review covers the North American vehicle so that's why I said it's not offered, in this market Lexus decided it wasn't going to be a high take option. Personally I like it.