2020 Lexus NX-300 Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?
Crossovers are gaining in popularity, partially thanks to their versatility. The 2020 Lexus NX 300 is a nice example of what a luxury crossover can offer. It has nice details inside the cabin that make it comfortable, advanced technology that allows people to stay connected while on the road, and solid components under the hood that drivers can depend on. Below are 10 reasons why the 2020 Lexus NX 300 is a wise purchase, along with some drawbacks that may make some consumers think twice about buying the vehicle.
What's New for 2020?
A major change for 2020 is that the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 is now a standard feature. This gives drivers peace of mind knowing that there are several driver-assist mechanisms that can help them out. Considering the push for driver-assist systems across the industry, this is a big step in the right direction for Lexus. Also, for the true audiophiles, a Mark Levinson premium sound system is available on all trims of the 2020 Lexus NX 300.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Lexus NX-300 – The Pros
1. Several Trims to Choose From
It's nice that Lexus has given its customers several trim options on the NX 300. The base model is far from basic. While sitting in its cabin, people will see and feel the luxury elements all around them. These touches include a leather-trimmed steering wheel that is soft to touch, an eight-speaker audio system that everyone in the car can appreciate, and an expensive-looking NuLuxe interior trim.
The F Sport is an upgrade from the base 2020 Lexus NX 300. It rides on 18" wheels rather than 17" ones, and it has sport seats and a sport steering wheel, a sport-tuned suspension, and enhanced exterior details that give the car extra style.
The NX 300 F Sport Black Line Special Edition has signature elements that make it even more striking. For example, it has a black headliner, bronze stitching inside the cabin, and unique 18" bronze-finished wheels. Only 2000 Black Line Special Edition vehicles will be made, so this model could turn into to something very coveted amongst car aficionados.
Another option is the NX 300 Luxury trim. It's an upgraded version of the NX 300 that comes with elements like perforated leather surfaces in the cabin and a heated steering wheel that make it feel much more classy. More benefits of the Luxury trim are that it includes built-in navigation, ventilated front seats, and a power moonroof.
2. Premium Audio System
For those who love listening to high-quality music, the Mark Levinson Audio Package is available. This 835-watt sound system uses 14 speakers strategically placed around the cabin to broadcast music. Further, it has Clari-Fi technology that makes each song sound dynamic and crisp. This is true even for older recordings that may otherwise sound a bit hollow.
The standard audio system isn't too shabby on its own. It includes eight speakers that can give a nice effect whether the system is playing songs or podcasts.
3. The Convenience of Voice Commands
The 2020 Lexus NX 300 has the ability to accept a variety of voice commands. This can free up a driver's attention to focus on the road and pay attention to what's really important.
Once the voice command button on the steering wheel is pressed, the vehicle is ready to accept directions about making phone calls, changing the radio station, or turning the air conditioner up. This great convenience is not only fun to use, but it's quite functional. It can come in handy if someone wants to change a setting while navigating busy city streets at the same time.
4. Stay Connected
Many modern consumers are constantly attached to their smartphones and love staying connected, and the 2020 Lexus NX 300 allows for that. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on all trims, as are Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Bluetooth compatibility. With the Lexus Enform system, the crossover can even act as a Wi-Fi 4GB hot spot.
All of these features work together to give people a seamless way to connect their phones to the vehicle's infotainment system. Songs, contacts, and more can be instantly accessed.
5. Safety is a Priority
The Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 comes with six different systems that can provide some extra assistance. First, the Pre-Collision System works continuously to prevent drivers from rear-ending other vehicles or hitting pedestrians or people on bikes. It has the ability to detect obstacles even in low-light conditions, when it's especially hard to see clearly.
Lane Departure Alert and Lane Tracing Assist help drivers stay in their positions. Road Sign Assist broadcasts information that drivers may have missed on either the multi-information or head-up display, and Intelligent High Beams can automatically turn on and off, depending on the situation and what's detected to be in front of the vehicle. This can make a difference when driving on unfamiliar or dark roads.
Finally, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control allows the NX 300 to adjust to various traffic conditions while maintaining proper distancing with other vehicles. This advanced cruise control system can work at all speeds, to include when traffic jams bring vehicles to a complete stop.
6. Store Items on the Roof
Roof rails are standard on the Lexus NX 300, giving drivers extra opportunities to carry their gear with them. The basic roof racks can be used to tie items down, and there's the option to get additional accessories that are designed for skis, bikes, or other items.
7. Strong Enough to Haul Cargo
The NX 300, with its four-cylinder engine, is powerful enough to tow up to 2,000 pounds. This gives drivers flexibility in terms of transporting large cargo or equipment.
8. Good Fuel Economy
Gas mileage is fairly respectable in the NX 300. It can earn an estimated 22 miles per gallon in the city and does better on the highway, achieving an estimated 28 miles per gallon. If fuel economy is the top factor on anyone's list, there's always the Lexus NX Hybrid to consider.
9. Select a Driving Mode
Several drive modes are offered on the Lexus, and a driver can change drive modes with just the turn of a dial. Sport mode provides a bit more power and has quicker acceleration than the others do. ECO mode does almost the opposite, moderating throttle response and power output in favor of efficiency. In this mode, climate settings may also adjusted so that the Lexus NX 300 can do a better job of conserving energy. Normal mode is the middle ground, providing a good balance of performance and efficiency.
F Sport models that are equipped with available Adaptive Variable Suspension come with a Custom drive mode. This lets drivers create modes that suit their particular driving styles.
10. A Power Rear Door
If drivers frequently find themselves with their hands full, the Power Rear Door with Kick Sensor is something to seriously consider. With the wave of a foot beneath the liftgate, the rear door will automatically lift up. A push button close adds to the convenience.
Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Lexus NX-300 – The Cons
1. Infotainment System Isn't the Most Intuitive
While the 2020 Lexus NX 300 has an eight-inch display (or an upgraded 10.3-inch display), the infotainment system feels clunky at times. The touchpad controller can take some time to get used to.
2. Could Use More Cargo Room
With a Lexus NX 300, drivers get to use 17.7 cubic feet of cargo room. This is plenty for everyday errands and short weekend trips, but it might not be enough for a long week away for a car-load of passengers. To gain more storage room, the rear seats can be folded down to expose a total of 54.6 cubic feet of space.
3. A Lackluster Engine
The four-cylinder engine on this Lexus crossover has adequate capabilities, with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Considering that Lexus is firmly planted in the luxury market, one might expect that the NX 300 would offer more in this area. Some of its high-end competitors make base models that have more kick than the NX 300 has, and others offer upgraded engines on higher trims that are much more sporty and powerful than the engine on the 2020 Lexus NX 300.
4. Small Second Row
Taller passengers could feel a bit cramped in the back row of the 2020 Lexus NX 300, considering rear leg room is 36.1 inches. However, this size should be fine for kids and smaller adults.
How It Stacks Up to the Competition:
The 2020 Lexus NX 300 holds its own when compared to competitors in the luxury crossover/SUV market. It has better mileage than many, including the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class. It also has a more attractive price tag than many models, which could be a key factor for some consumers.
Conclusion
For anyone in the market for a crossover or smaller SUV, the 2020 Lexus NX 300 stands out as a solid choice. It has high-end features inside the cabin and around the exterior, giving it a luxurious feel. Additionally, people can have confidence as they drive these vehicles around town given the safety features that are included. These systems, matched with a high-tech infotainment system, help the 2020 Lexus NX 300 feel like it's ready for the future.
