The Lexus NX 300, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2017 (AZ10 series), represented Lexus’s entry into the burgeoning compact luxury crossover segment. Produced from 2017 through September 2021, this variant occupied a key position in the NX lineup, offering a balance of performance, luxury, and fuel efficiency. It served as the mainstream powertrain option, positioned between the hybrid NX 300h and, in some markets, higher-performance turbocharged variants. The 2017 facelift brought revised styling, updated technology, and refinements to the driving experience, solidifying the NX 300’s appeal to a broad range of buyers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | NX |
| Generation | NX I (AZ10, facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 300 (238 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | September, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 133.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 195.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 238 Hp @ 4800-5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 119.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1650-4000 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1650-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 8AR-FTS |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.9 l (5.18 US qt | 4.31 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.9 l (8.35 US qt | 6.95 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1787 kg (3939.66 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2309 kg (5090.47 lbs.) |
| Max load | 522 kg (1150.81 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 501 l (17.69 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4638 mm (182.6 in.) |
| Width | 1869 mm (73.58 in.) |
| Height | 1646 mm (64.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2659 mm (104.69 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 175 mm (6.89 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.1 m (39.7 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission ECT-i |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/65 R17; 225/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the NX 300 is the 8AR-FTS, a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a member of Toyota’s AR engine family, known for its reliability and efficiency. The 8AR-FTS utilizes direct injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger, along with Toyota’s Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) system, to optimize performance and fuel economy. The engine produces 238 horsepower at 4800-5600 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque between 1650 and 4000 rpm. This torque curve provides strong low-end and mid-range acceleration. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission (ECT-i), designed for smooth and responsive shifting. While not the sportiest transmission available, it prioritizes comfort and efficiency, aligning with the NX 300’s overall character.
Driving Characteristics
The NX 300 with the 2.0-liter turbo and automatic transmission delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration is brisk, with the 0-60 mph sprint taking around 7 seconds. The automatic transmission is generally smooth, although it can occasionally feel hesitant during quick downshifts. Compared to the NX 300h hybrid, the turbo engine offers more readily available power for merging and overtaking. However, it lacks the instant torque of the hybrid system. Compared to potential higher-output turbocharged variants offered in other markets, the 238 hp version provides a more balanced approach, prioritizing fuel economy and everyday usability over outright performance. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, resulting in a relatively relaxed highway cruising experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The NX 300 came in several trim levels, with standard features including Lexus Safety System+, which encompasses pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with intelligent steering assist, and dynamic radar cruise control. Interior features typically included NuLuxe (synthetic leather) upholstery, a 7-inch infotainment display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trims added features like a larger 10.3-inch display, navigation, premium audio systems (Mark Levinson), heated and ventilated front seats, and a power rear door. Optional extras included blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a panoramic sunroof.
Chassis & Braking
The NX 300 utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The suspension consists of independent McPherson struts at the front and a double-wishbone setup at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. Front brakes are ventilated discs, while rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is electrically assisted, offering a light and precise feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering. The chassis is tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing a smooth and quiet ride.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lexus NX 300 was generally well-received by critics, praised for its comfortable ride, luxurious interior, and strong fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the infotainment system could be cumbersome to use and that the driving experience wasn’t as engaging as some competitors. Compared to rivals like the Acura RDX and BMW X3, the NX 300 offered a more comfortable ride and a reputation for reliability. Fuel economy was competitive, averaging around 25 mpg in combined driving. The NX 300h hybrid offered even better fuel economy, but at a higher price point. The standard NX 300 provided a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a luxurious and efficient compact crossover.
Legacy
The 8AR-FTS engine, while not without its minor issues (such as potential oil consumption in some cases), has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. The six-speed automatic transmission is also known for its durability. On the used car market, the NX 300 remains a popular choice, offering a good balance of features, comfort, and reliability. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is good. The 2017 facelifted model is particularly desirable due to its updated styling and improved technology. The NX 300 helped establish Lexus as a major player in the compact luxury crossover segment, paving the way for the second-generation NX.
