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 mid-range offering, positioned above the NX 200 (which wasn’t widely available in the US) and below the NX 450h hybrid models. The 2017 facelift brought revised styling, improved interior materials, and enhancements to the infotainment system, solidifying the NX 300’s appeal in a competitive market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | NX |
| Generation | NX I (AZ10, facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 300 (238 Hp) AWD 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) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp, 129.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 190.5 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 | 7.9 l (8.35 US qt | 6.95 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1837 kg (4049.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2359 kg (5200.7 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.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 significant departure from the naturally aspirated engines previously offered in the NX range. The 8AR-FTS utilizes direct injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger, contributing to its responsive power delivery and improved fuel efficiency. Lexus’s Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) system optimizes valve timing for enhanced performance across the rev range. The engine is transversely mounted, driving all four wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission (ECT-i – Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence). This transmission is known for its smooth shifts and adaptive learning capabilities, adjusting shift points based on driving style. The automatic transmission was chosen for its ease of use and appeal to the target demographic seeking a comfortable and refined driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The NX 300 AWD Automatic delivers a composed and comfortable driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the 238 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque provide ample power for everyday driving and highway passing. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 6.8 seconds, making it competitive within its class. The six-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth and predictable shifts. Compared to the NX 200, the 300 offers a substantial performance upgrade, while the higher-output NX 450h provides even quicker acceleration. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather. The gear ratios are optimized for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, with a relatively tall final drive contributing to highway efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The NX 300 came in several trim levels, each offering a progressively increasing level of luxury and features. Standard equipment typically included Lexus Safety System+, which encompassed pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with intelligent steering assist, and dynamic radar cruise control. Interior features included a 7-inch infotainment display (later upgraded to 10.3 inches), a rearview camera, and NuLuxe simulated leather upholstery. Higher trims added features such as a power liftgate, blind spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, heated and ventilated front seats, and a Mark Levinson premium sound system. Optional extras included navigation, a panoramic sunroof, and adaptive variable suspension.
Chassis & Braking
The NX 300 utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double wishbone rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and predictable handling. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The chassis is designed to balance rigidity and weight savings. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) are standard features. The braking system is generally considered adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance, providing confident stopping power.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lexus NX 300 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and strong engine performance. Fuel economy was considered competitive for its class, averaging around 24 mpg combined. Compared to rivals like the Acura RDX and BMW X3, the NX 300 offered a compelling value proposition, particularly in terms of standard features and Lexus’s reputation for reliability. Some critics noted that the infotainment system could be less intuitive than those offered by competitors, and the rear seat space was somewhat limited.
Legacy
The 8AR-FTS engine, while not without its minor issues (such as potential oil consumption in some early models), 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 blend of luxury, reliability, and value. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and adherence to Lexus’s recommended service intervals, is crucial for ensuring the long-term health of this powertrain. The NX 300 laid the groundwork for the subsequent generation of NX models, establishing Lexus as a serious contender in the compact luxury crossover segment.
