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2020 Lexus NX200 – Test Drive, Review, Ratings, Spec

Have it all with the Lexus NX200

Sitting comfortably between the Lexus UX and RX lineup, the NX200 is a mid-sized cross-over large enough for the family weekend while remaining compact enough to feed a bit of road adrenaline. It’s 10.2″ shorter than its larger RX brother, and the low-seating bucket seats gives further confirmation that the NX200 was built for a bit of road handling.

Offered in two models, the standard NX300 comes with either a standard 2.4L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine or a hybrid powertrain variant. Your choice comes down to whether you favor power or fuel economy as the standard 2.4L 4-cylinder produces 235 horsepower while the hybrid variant will net on 195. In expense of power output, the hybrid rewards you with significantly better fuel economy at 7.5 L/100km while the standard 2.4L 4-cylinder at 9.6L/100km. The hybrid model will also cost $2,300 dollars more on top of the base price at $44,350

The compromise is worth it in our books. Despite having 35 horsepower less, the NX300h’s acceleration felt capable for most driving situations and the engine and electric motor tandem are quick to respond on heavy pedal notes.

Luxury is what Lexus does best, and the NX300 is no exception. While synthetic, the perforated leather material is smooth and soft to the touch while the overall quality fits for the highest demand.

Standard options is generous with door-handle sensors installed on all 4-doors, power lift gate, heated and ventilated seats. However, the infotainment screen size will only be limited to just 8.3″. Unfortunately, opting for the $12,900 Executive package is your only option if you want to upgrade the screen size to the 10.3″. But the good news, is you’ll get a a plethora of added safety and luxury features including cross-traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, heated steering wheel, power rear seats, XM radio and navigation.

The cabin space is an environment you want to be in. It’s smooth, quiet, comfortable and despite the low and deep bucket seating position, it still feels roomy. Acceleration is fairly quick to respond and gear shifts by the 6-speed automatic are fairly predictable for the most part. The NX300 does offer a bit of handling capability thanks to the more stiff-tuned suspensions, but unmasking understeer didn’t take much effort to reveal during our test drive.

If speaking of performance, Lexus still has a long way to catch up to its German rivals namely the BMW X3, or Mercedes GLA. But that was also never the intention of Lexus to begin with. Rather, the NX200 pleases you with exceptional quality and comfort, and perhaps a glimpse of what perfection looks like.

Specifications

  • Vehicle : 2020 Lexus UX300
  • Model : UX300
  • Price as Tested : $59,306 (Executive Package Added)
  • Vehicle Type : Mid-Size SUV
  • Seating Capacity : 2+3
  • Powertrain Configuration : AWD
  • Engine : 2.4L 4 Cylinder Turbocharged
  • Transmission : 6-Speed Automatic
  • Horsepower : 235
  • Fuel Economy: 9.6L/100km

Pros

  • Exceptional build quality
  • Versatile and excellent cargo space
  • Generously equipped with standard options
  • Smooth and Comfortable Ride

Cons

  • Handling capability still behind its German Rivals
  • Opting for a larger 10.3″ touchscreen paying a large amount of the Executive Package option.