2018 Lexus NX 300 Review

Price Estimate: $20,590 - $30,990

Read full review See all features & specs

Oops, we can’t seem to locate you.

Please enter U.S. ZIP code to see vehicles for sale

Lexus NX 300 model years

Lexus NX 300 for Sale

Edmunds' Expert Review

by Calvin Kim

Pros

Generous backseat room
Available power-folding rear seat
Cabin is very quiet at highway speeds

Cons

Limited rear cargo volume
Remote Touch Interface can be distracting to use

What's new

New name for last year's NX 200t
Last year's Safety System+ package is now standard
Updated infotainment system with larger display and controller
Adaptive suspension dampers now available for F Sport models
Part of the first NX generation introduced for 2015

The 2018 Lexus NX 300 is the new name for what used to be called the NX 200t. There are a few minor differences, but overall it's the same vehicle. That means you're getting a small luxury crossover with mini-RX 350 styling and a comfortable around-town demeanor. Buyers will enjoy comfortable seating, a quiet interior and a suitably powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale nearby

13 listings

Sort by:

Price Drop
2018 Lexus NX 300
Base 4dr SUV
$21,500
great price
$1,844 below market
- 79,709 miles
- 1 accident, 1 owner, personal use only
- 5 Seats, 22 City / 28 Hwy MPG
- Corwin Honda (65 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Upgraded Headlights
Close
Located in Fargo, ND
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
24 Combined MPG (22 City/28 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTJBARBZ3J2171138
Stock: 9171138
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 08-21-2025
Price Drop
2018 Lexus NX 300
Base 4dr SUV
$20,692
good price
$1,099 below market
- 99,490 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, corporate fleet vehicle
- 5 Seats, 22 City / 28 Hwy MPG
- Reliable Automobile Sales, Inc. (498 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Sturgeon Bay, WI
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
24 Combined MPG (22 City/28 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTJBARBZ1J2161868
Stock: T-11864-A
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 08-20-2025

See all for sale

There are a few drawbacks. Rear cargo space is limited due to the steeply sloped rear window. Also, Lexus' Remote Touch infotainment interface may leave some drivers frustrated because of its attention-sapping nature. Overall, though, the NX 300 should appeal to shoppers seeking a refined and comfortable luxury crossover.

Edmunds' Expert Rating

6.9 / 10

The 2018 Lexus NX 300 features bold looks both in and out, but this small luxury crossover's functionality and ease of use are completely traditional. The NX excels at highway comfort and around-town smoothness.

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Lexus NX 300 (turbo 2.0L inline-4 | 6-speed automatic | AWD).

Scorecard

Overall	6.9 / 10
Driving	6.5
Comfort	8.5
Interior	6.5
Utility	6.0
Technology	7.0

Driving

6.5

Odds are, most shoppers are looking for a comfortable ride, and the NX 300 certainly fulfills that mission. But in terms of performance and driver engagement, the Lexus NX 300 comes up as merely average among the current crop of luxury crossover SUVs.

Acceleration

6.5

The NX 300's engine is smooth and has good low-end power, which is ideal for quick low-speed passes and accelerating from a stoplight. But outright acceleration is a little disappointing. In Edmunds testing, the NX 300 covered 0-60 mph in 7.3 seconds, which is marginally slower than rivals.

Braking

6.0

In Edmunds emergency braking tests from 60 mph, the NX 300 needed 137 feet to stop, which is a few feet longer than average. Nosedive is noticeable, as is a slight squirm from the rear tires. Still, the NX remains controllable.

Steering

6.5

The steering effort is appropriate and precise, but there's little feedback for the driver to get a sense of what the front wheels are doing. At parking-lot speeds, the effort lightens up for easy maneuvering. As speeds go up, the weighting also increases, providing confidence on the highway.

Handling

6.5

Even in F Sport guise, the NX 300 leans a lot when you drive around turns. Overall stability is respectable, however, and you can drive with a fair amount of confidence. The F Sport model features a stiffer suspension and slightly better response, but it still prioritizes cruising comfort.

Drivability

8.0

The transmission's gear shifts are glass-smooth, and the engine virtually disappears from your conscience. The F Sport is a little more responsive, but overall throttle response for the NX is average. The transmission can be a bit slow to react.

Off-road

6.5

While the NX 300 has a lockable center differential, which increases traction when one or two wheels are on slippery surfaces, its ride height and conservative traction control system are designed for your typical dirt road or unplowed driveway.

Comfort

8.5

The Lexus NX 300 provides high levels of overall comfort. Smooth and quiet are apt descriptors. The seating is roomy both front and rear.

Seat comfort

8.0

The front seats offer plenty of room and adequate support for a variety of body types. The optional front-seat ventilation further enhances long-distance comfort. The rear seats are also accommodating for adult passengers.

Ride comfort

8.5

The NX 300's suspension smooths over road imperfections with ease. Where rivals feel busy and nervous, the Lexus seems to glide unaffected over ruts and bumps.

Noise & vibration

8.5

Even among luxury crossover SUVs, the Lexus NX 300 is impressively quiet. Wind, road and engine noise is pleasantly silenced to levels that we're used to hearing in flagship sedans. When in Sport or Sport Plus mode, the F Sport's piped-in engine note is unapologetically artificial and may be distracting to some.

Climate control

8.0

The dual-zone automatic climate control system is controlled mainly through well-labeled buttons and rockers. The system works well and isn't too loud. We like the ease of operation and that even those with shorter arms can reach all the controls.

Interior

6.5

The NX 300's interior is efficiently designed and accommodating, and controls are situated within arm's reach of most drivers. The main downside is the frustrating and ill-conceived Remote Touch infotainment controller.

Ease of use

5.0

The optional Remote Touch trace pad interface is easily the worst in the industry. The controller is hard to operate, and there is a distinct lack of intuitive menus and buttons. This setup is unfortunately mandatory with the navigation option package. It's a pity because the rest of the cabin controls are well-conceived.

Getting in/getting out

7.5

Thanks to a typical crossover SUV ride height and tall door openings, getting into the NX 300 is an easy, stoop-free affair. The doors are also short enough in length to allow access in tight parking spaces.

Driving position

7.5

The seat and steering wheel positions can be saved into a memory position, and the range of adjustability is good. But taller drivers may feel slightly cramped since the steering column can impede into knee room.

Roominess

7.0

The front seats are spacious for larger passengers, and the rear seats have enough head- and legroom for adults in the outboard seats. But the small rear windows do make those quarters feel a bit more confining than they are.

Visibility

7.0

Forward visibility is typically decent, but the rear roof pillars and small rear window obscure the view out back. Fortunately, the standard rearview camera takes the guesswork out of backing into a space, but that doesn't help when changing lanes in traffic.

Quality

7.0

The standard simulated leather upholstery looks and feels like the genuine article. Common touch points are well-padded, and other interior materials are good quality and tightly fitted for a solid feel.

Utility

6.0

As a compact crossover, the NX doesn't exceed expectations on interior cargo space. Overall, it's a little below average within the segment.

Small-item storage

6.0

The door pockets are small, as is the glovebox and center console compartment. There's a unique makeup case-size compartment adjacent to the cupholders with a removable lid that features a mirror on its underside.

Cargo space

5.5

The NX 300's cargo space behind the rear seats is smaller than competitors' and is further hampered by the sloped rear window. With the rear seats folded down, the NX's expanded volume is reasonably competitive.

Child safety seat accommodation

7.0

The two outboard car seat positions feature easy-to-access top and bottom anchors. The middle-seat car position is odd as the top anchor is located on the ceiling.

Towing

7.0

The all-wheel-drive version of the NX 300 features a tow rating of 2,000 pounds, but a receiver hitch is not standard.

Technology

7.0

Although the technology in the NX is modern and effective, its clunky interface and lackluster smartphone integration will discourage a lot of potential buyers.

Audio & navigation

8.0

The optional premium audio system produces excellent audio quality throughout the register but doesn't like to be pushed to the limits in volume. While we don't like the Remote Touch interface, the integrated navigation system is easy to use and has fairly accurate traffic information.

Smartphone integration

6.0

The NX 300 primarily uses Lexus' Enform app for smartphone integration. It requires downloading and logging into individual apps and needs to be running for it to work. We're not fans of this system due to its complicated setup process.

Driver aids

7.0

The NX's adaptive cruise control, front collision mitigation braking and optional rear cross-traffic alert systems all work well. The lane keeping assist and auto high-beam activation are less useful since their effectiveness varies too much based on terrain and surroundings.

Voice control

8.0

The voice controls work well and allow for some degree of syntax flexibility. They operate navigation, phone, entertainment and climate control systems. iPhone users benefit from standard Siri Eyes Free capability.

Compare 2018 Lexus NX 300 trim levels

Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

2018 Lexus NX 300 models

The 2018 Lexus NX 300 is a five-passenger compact SUV available in a two trim levels. The NX 300h hybrid is reviewed separately. It comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (235 horsepower, 258 pound-feet) and a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional.

Standard equipment includes 17-inch wheels, LED headlights, LED foglights and running lights, keyless ignition and entry, automatic dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable front seats, simulated-leather upholstery (Lexus' NuLuxe), a 60/40-split folding and reclining back seat, a 8-inch infotainment display with a touchpad interface, and an eight-speaker sound system.

Also included are adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning and mitigation, lane departure warning and intervention, and automatic high beams.

The NX 300 F Sport version adds 18-inch wheels, special exterior styling elements, a sport-tuned suspension, special interior trim and NuLuxe color schemes, more aggressively bolstered seats, different gauges and a sport steering wheel.

Other packages are also available, but their availability can vary by region, so you'll want to check with your local dealer. The Comfort package includes heated and ventilated front seats and blind-spot monitoring. To that package, the Premium package adds 18-inch wheels, a sunroof, driver-seat memory settings and a power-adjustable steering wheel.

The Luxury package bundles the above options with automatic wipers, a heated steering wheel and leather upholstery. There's also a Navigation package with a larger 10.3-inch screen and a premium sound system.

Additional options include front and rear parking sensors, a power liftgate, upgraded LED headlights and adaptive suspension dampers (F Sport only).

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

$201/mo

$181/mo

Avg. Midsize SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

See Edmunds pricing data

Has Your Car's Value Changed?

Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.

Year

Make

Model

See pricing history

Reliability

The 2018 Lexus NX 300 has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 1 recall. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Recalls

1 recall found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 20V682000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 20TA02, 20
Number of vehicles affected:: 1517721
Defect Description:: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2019 4Runner, 2019-2020 Avalon, 2019 Corolla Hatchback, 2017-2019 Highlander, 2018-2020 Camry, 2020 Corolla, 2018-2019 Land Cruiser, 2017-2020 Tacoma, 2019-2020 RAV4, 2019-2020 Sequoia, 2017-2020 Sienna, 2019-2020 Tundra, 2018-2020 Lexus ES350, 2017 Lexus GS200t, 2017-2019 Lexus GS350, 2019 Lexus GS300, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500h, 2019-2020 Lexus LS500, 2018-2019 Lexus GX460, 2017 Lexus IS200t, 2019 Lexus IS300, 2019 Lexus IS350, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500, 2018 Lexus LS500, 2019 Lexus LS500h, 2018-2019 Lexus LX570, 2017 Lexus RC200t, 2019 Lexus RC300, RC350, 2017 and 2019-2020 Lexus RX350, 2018-2020 RX350L, 2019 Lexus UX200, 2018-2019 Lexus NX300 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Defect Consequence:: If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump assembly with an improved one, free of charge. Interim notices informing owners of the safety risk were mailed beginning November 23, 2020. Owners will receive a second notice when the remedy becomes available. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 20V-012. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TA02. Lexus' number for this recall is 20LA01.

Warranty

4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 6 years / 70,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 6 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 4 years / unlimited miles
Free maintenance Warranty: 1 years / 10,000 miles

Lexus NX 300 Owner Reviews

4.2

26 reviews

5(54%)

4(23%)

3(15%)

2(3%)

1(5%)

See all 26 reviews Write a vehicle review

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Super Little SUV

Jim, 04/12/2018

2018 Lexus NX 300 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

Great car I bought with all the bells and whistles I find the only thing lacking is gas milage and maybe a bigger gas tank

Just as expected

John, 07/09/2018

2018 Lexus NX 300 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

This was a jump from what we normally buy. It's our first into the luxury market. Wish we did it sooner. Make sure you buy from a dealer you may service with. The Lexus relationship so far has been above expectation.

Great cross over SUV, not for everyone

Ashton, 03/19/2019

2018 Lexus NX 300 F SPORT 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

I'm writing this review because I leased the 2018 NX300 F Sport for mostly my wife to drive a safer vehicle that can handle the winter months as well. I see the same complaints from many consumers, too small, bad infotainment, poor fuel mileage, and other minor issues. So far, we do city driving which is mostly stop and go traffic averaging 17mpg. On the highway I can average 32mpg at …

My very first Lexus and I LOVE IT!

Jersey Jade, 11/09/2018

2018 Lexus NX 300 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

I have been wanting a Lexus for the longest time and finally at age 61 1/2, I was able to finally afford to lease one. I originally wanted the 350 but settled on the 300 because it was in my price range. I have to say.. IT WAS WELL WORTH THE WAIT! I love this SUV.. The luxury of the ride, the interior design, the sound system... Everything just feels top of the line! And the size is …

See all 26 reviews of the Lexus NX 300

Write a vehicle review

2018 NX 300 Highlights

Trim:

Base

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$35,985
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	25 MPG
Cost to Drive	$201/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	17.7 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the NX 300 models:

Lexus Safety System+: Helps mitigate accidents by alerting you when a front collision is imminent or when you deviate from your lane.
Blind-Spot Monitor: Alerts you if a vehicle is in your blind spot and warns you about oncoming cross-traffic when backing up.
Lexus Enform Safety Connect: Lets you connect with roadside assistance and can contact the authorities in case of a collision or stolen vehicle.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall4 / 5
Driver4 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover16.1%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

2018 Lexus NX 300 Review

Edmunds' Expert Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

For sale nearby

2018 Lexus NX 300Base 4dr SUV

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

2018 Lexus NX 300Base 4dr SUV

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

Edmunds' Expert Rating

Trim tested

Scorecard

Driving

Acceleration

Braking

Steering

Handling

Drivability

Off-road

Comfort

Seat comfort

Ride comfort

Noise & vibration

Climate control

Interior

Ease of use

Getting in/getting out

Driving position

Roominess

Visibility

Quality

Utility

Small-item storage

Cargo space

Child safety seat accommodation

Towing

Technology

Audio & navigation

Smartphone integration

Driver aids

Voice control

Which NX 300 does Edmunds recommend?

2018 Lexus NX 300 models

Cost to Drive

Reliability

Recalls

Warranty

Lexus NX 300 Owner Reviews

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Super Little SUV

Just as expected

Great cross over SUV, not for everyone

My very first Lexus and I LOVE IT!

2018 NX 300 Highlights

Safety

Related Used 2018 Lexus NX 300 info

Vehicle reviews of used models

Shop similar models

Shop used vehicles in your area

Popular new car reviews and ratings

Research other models of Lexus

Research similar vehicles

Other models

Join Edmunds

2018 Lexus NX 300
Base 4dr SUV

2018 Lexus NX 300
Base 4dr SUV