2023 Lexus NX 350 SUV

　　

2023 Lexus NX 350 Review

byDan FrioReviews Editor

　　Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to zzdcar, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.

　　The Lexus NX returned last year reinvigorated with revamped styling, a larger engine, more power, a new transmission and a vastly improved infotainment system. The changes have helped the 2023 Lexus NX 350 better challenge rival small luxury SUVs like the Acura RDX, Mercedes-Benz GLC and newcomer Genesis GV70.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 Lexus NX 350 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$188/mo  for NX 350 Base

　　NX 350 Base

　　4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $42,815 MSRPPremium 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 8A) (Most Popular) - $45,865 MSRPF SPORT Handling 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $47,915 MSRPLuxury 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $50,265 MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　For 2023, the NX carries over unchanged. That's fine for now because Lexus did the heavy lifting already. The base model offers essential features, including a bundle of useful driver aids, but luxury buyers will likely gravitate to the Premium and Luxury trims for more robust offerings: quilted leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, a power liftgate, and a high-def 14-inch touchscreen (optional on the Premium) among others. The latter is a welcome send-off to the distant display and frustrating touchpad controller of past models.

　　The NX 350 joins two hybrids, the NX 350h and NX 450h+, and a lesser-powered entry-level NX 250 in the Lexus lineup. The NX 250 is fuel-efficient and priced right, but some buyers will likely find the NX 350's larger engine and 275 horsepower more their speed. It also makes more low-end torque (317 lb ft) than its main rivals, yet fuel economy is competitive. Compared to alternatives like the Acura RDX or BMW X3, though, the Lexus lacks spirit. It's comfortable and quiet enough in a straight line, but the NX 350 isn't as sharp or responsive when the road bends.

　　From a practical perspective, the Lexus offers nearly 23 cubic feet of cargo space, roughly the size of a standard washing machine. That's less than the GV70 or RDX, but they're also slightly larger and longer. The Mercedes is the same length as the NX yet offers slightly less cargo space. Read our Expert Rating below to learn how the NX 350 measures up against its rivals and if it's a good fit for you.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Good

　　7.8

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

8.0/10

　　How does the NX 350 drive? We tested the F Sport version and found it provides a pleasing balance of comfort and capability. Acceleration at our test track was unremarkable (0-60 mph in 7 seconds), but the turbocharged engine is sufficiently strong enough for getting up to highway speeds or passing slower traffic. Shifts from the eight-speed automatic transmission aren't particularly quick but are fairly smooth.

　　In our panic-braking test from 60 mph, our NX 350 F Sport logged a slighter better than average distance of 117 feet. On the road, the NX's brakes are smooth and predictable. The NX's handling inspires confidence but we wouldn't go so far as to call it sporty. The F Sport package on our test vehicle helped to minimize body roll when cornering.

　　

Comfort

8.0/10

　　How comfortable is the NX 350? The NX 350 F Sport, which is what we tested, feels taut and secure without being overly stiff-riding. The F Sport also comes with special seats that have more bolstering but are just as soft and comfortable as the ones in a standard NX. The seat heating and ventilation in our test NX were fast-acting, and the rear seats offered better than average sculpting and support.

　　Most of the climate control features are readily accessible and easy to use. The three-zone climate system did a good job of maintaining a set temperature, but we thought the center vents were too low to be particularly effective on a warm day. Interior noise levels are relatively low, and while we noticed little to no wind noise, we did hear more tire hum than we expected.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below