Ready to uncover the finest and worst years of the Lexus NX?
We’re plunging in with data from NHTSA, Consumer Reports, and Kelley Blue Book.
We’ll break down each generation’s performance, safety, tech, and frequent issues. From engine specs to resale values, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s explore which Lexus NX years are worth your money!
Table of ContentsShow
Lexus NX Generations
The Lexus NX burst onto the scene in 2015, marking Lexus’s grand entrance into the compact luxury crossover SUV market. Talk about making a splash!
This sleek ride wasn’t messing around. It came out swinging with sharp styling that turns heads, an interior that screams luxury, and enough tech and safety features to make a spaceship jealous.
The NX quickly became the talk of the town, earning a reputation for its silky-smooth ride, rock-solid reliability, and a hybrid option that’s as efficient as it is remarkable.
Let’s break it down generation by generation:
| Generation | Years |
|---|---|
| 1st Generation (AZ10) | 2015-2021 |
| 2nd Generation (AZ20) | 2022-Present |
Pay attention, folks. These generational changes aren’t just about pretty facelifts. They can make or break your decision, especially if you’re big on design, performance, or having the latest tech at your fingertips.
Lexus NX Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
When we’re sizing up the Lexus NX across its generations, we’re not just throwing darts at a board. We’re diving into a whole pool of factors, including:
- What owners are saying about reliability (straight from the horse’s mouth)
- How much you’ll be shelling out for annual maintenance
- Safety ratings (because who doesn’t want to feel like they’re driving a tank?)
- Consumer Reports’ take on reliability and owner satisfaction
- NHTSA’s report card (recalls, investigations, and complaints)
- Ratings from the big guns: Edmunds, JD Power, Kelley Blue Book (KBB), VehicleHistory, and Cars.com
Hang tight for a graph that’ll show you how each Lexus NX model year stacks up across these areas. It’s like a report card for cars!
Now, let’s break it down into the superb, the bad, and the “meh”:
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Generation (AZ10) | 2017 2020 2021 | 2018 2019 | 2015 2016 |
| 2nd Generation (AZ20) | 2023 2024 | N/A | 2022 |
Those “Neutral Years”? They’re not bad, but they’re not writing home about either. They’re the middle-of-the-road performers that lack that special sauce to push them into the “best” category.
And here’s a pro tip: keep an eye on those NHTSA recalls. More complaints and recalls usually spell trouble in the reliability department.
Ready to dig into the best and worst years?
Let’s accomplish this!
Best & Worst Years for Lexus NX 1st Generation (2015-2021)
The Lexus NX hit the ground running in 2015, quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the compact luxury SUV market. Lexus promised luxury, efficiency, and performance – and boy, did they deliver.
But not all years are created equal.
Let’s break it down:
The Best Years: 2017, 2020, 2021
If you’re hunting for the cream of the crop in the first-gen Lexus NX, look no further than 2017, 2020, and 2021. These years are like fine wine – they just keep getting better.
2017 was a game-changer. Lexus rolled out their Safety System+ as standard equipment. We’re talking adaptive cruise control and a pre-collision system that can spot pedestrians. Talk about peace of mind on wheels!
And it’s not just us saying it. The 2017, 2020, and 2021 models all snagged the Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS. That’s like the Academy Award of automobile safety, folks.
Under the hood, these models are packing heat. The NX 300 (previously known as the NX 200t) comes with a 2.0L turbocharged I4 engine that pumps out 235 horses. Paired with a smooth 6-speed automatic, it’s the perfect balance of power and efficiency. We’re talking 22 MPG in the city and 28 on the highway. Not too shabby!
The 2020 and 2021 models took it up another notch. They fine-tuned the infotainment system, adding Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Plus, they got some aesthetic upgrades that keep the NX looking fresh and ready to compete.
The Neutral Years: 2018, 2019
The 2018 and 2019 models? They’re reliable performers, no doubt. They kept the high bar set by the 2017 refresh but didn’t exactly push the envelope.
You’re still getting that reliable 2.0L turbocharged engine and all the safety bells and whistles. But they did hit a small bump in the road with recalls for airbag sensor malfunctions and fuel pump failures. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re eyeing these years.
The Worst Years: 2015, 2016
Now, let’s talk about the years you might want to ponder twice about: 2015 and 2016.
Look, every new model has some teething problems, and the NX was no exception. The 2015 model year marked Lexus’s first foray into the compact SUV world, and it showed. They had some issues with the fuel system that led to recalls for fuel pump failures and airbag sensor malfunctions. Not exactly the smoothest start.
Sure, these models laid the groundwork with nice features like power-adjustable driver’s seats and dual-zone climate control. But those early technical hiccups? They suggest you might get more bang for your buck with later years.
Want to dig deeper?
Check out the NHTSA recalls and complaints for the 2015 and 2016 Lexus NX. Information is strength, after all!
Best & Worst Years for Lexus NX 2nd Generation (2022-Present)
The second-gen Lexus NX, kicking off in 2022, came out swinging. We’re talking fresh design, tech upgrades that’ll make your head spin, and a whole buffet of powertrain options. It’s setting new standards in the luxury compact SUV world.
But even with all that jazz, not every year struck the same high notes.
Let’s break it down:
The Best Years: 2023, 2024
Want to know which Lexus NX years are the most dependable? Look no further than 2023 and 2024. These models are the cream of the crop in the second generation.
Lexus didn’t just upgrade these models – they supercharged them. You’ve got state-of-the-art powertrain options, including a 2.4L turbocharged engine that cranks out a whopping 275 horses. And if you’re all about that fuel efficiency life, the hybrid variant will make you feeble in the knees.
Speaking of efficiency, these models are sipping fuel like it’s fine wine. We’re talking 26 MPG in the city and 33 on the highway. The hybrid? It’s even superior.
Safety-wise, Lexus pulled out all the stops. The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 is like having an attentive angel riding shotgun. Road sign assist? Check. Enhanced radar cruise control? You bet. And guess what? These models also nabbed that esteemed Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS.
Step inside, and you’re in for a treat. A 14-inch touchscreen that’s more responsive than your smartphone, voice recognition that actually understands you, and an interface so user-friendly your grandma could master it.
Oh, and for all you speed demons out there, the F Sport trim is like adding a dash of hot sauce to your luxury SUV. It’s spicy, it’s dynamic, and it’s ready to show you what performance really means.
The Worst Years: 2022
Now, about that 2022 model. Look, it was groundbreaking in its own right, but it had some growing pains.
This model year got caught up in some recalls. We’re talking parking brake failures and shock absorber detachment. Not exactly what you want to hear about your gleaming new luxury SUV, right?
Under the hood, the standard 2.5L engine was pumping out a decent 203 hp. Not bad, but not quite the powerhouse we saw in later years.
Don’t get me wrong – the 2022 model laid the groundwork for all the awesome tech and safety features we’re drooling over in the later models. But when it comes to performance enhancements and overall driver experience, it’s playing catch-up to its 2023 and 2024 siblings.
Inquisitive about those recalls?
Check out the NHTSA recalls and complaints for the 2022 Lexus NX. Better safe than sorry!
Lexus NX Resale Values
Want to see how well the Lexus NX maintains its value over time? Check out this graph:
Conclusion
So, which Lexus NX year gives you the most bang for your buck?
Our top picks are 2017, 2020, 2021, 2023, and 2024. These models boast killer safety features, mind-blowing tech, and head-turning looks. Steer clear of 2015, 2016, and 2022 – they’ve got some baggage.
But we want to hear from you! Which Lexus NX year do you think is the greatest value?
Drop your thoughts in the comments – your input could help someone make their next car choice!
