2020 Lexus NX

2020 Lexus NX Highlights

The 2020 Lexus NX may call itself a compact luxury crossover, but it feels like a larger SUV. While the 2020 edition hasn’t been updated with a new interior or exterior, it does get some much-needed tech updates with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+ and Android Auto. Driver comfort improves with the optional power tilt/telescoping steering column, and handling gets better with the new brake-based torque-vectoring system Lexus calls Active Cornering Assist.

Key Details

• Compact luxury crossover SUV body style
• Two-row seating for up to five passengers
• Two powertrain options: turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and hybrid system
• Available in front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)
• Standard Lexus Safety System 2.0+
• Addition of Android Auto
• Optional power tilt/telescoping steering column
• Introduction of Active Cornering Assist

Benefits

• Comprehensive standard safety features with Lexus Safety System 2.0+
• Improved connectivity with Android Auto addition
• Smooth and quiet ride
• Upscale interior with quality materials
• Available hybrid powertrain for improved fuel efficiency
• Lexus reputation for reliability and resale value

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2020 Lexus NX Overview

Performance

The 2020 Lexus NX offers two powertrain options:

NX 300 (including F Sport):

• 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine
• 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque
• Six-speed automatic transmission
• Available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive

NX 300h (hybrid):

• 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine combined with electric motors
• Total system output of 194 horsepower
• Continuously variable transmission (CVT)
• Standard all-wheel drive

The NX 300's turbo four provides decent power, but acceleration is only average, even in the 2020 Lexus NX 300 F Sport. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, keeping the engine in its powerband.

The hybrid 2020 Lexus NX 300h sacrifices some performance for improved fuel economy. While not as quick as its gas-only counterpart, it’s not meant to be. Power is adequate for daily commuting.

Performance features include:

• Drive Mode Select (Eco, Normal, and Sport modes)
• Available F Sport-tuned suspension (NX 300 F Sport)
• New Active Cornering Assist (helps reduce understeer during cornering)

The towing capacity for the NX is modest:

• Up to 2,000 pounds when properly equipped (NX 300)

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2020 Lexus NX a top five-star overall safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2020 NX a Top Safety Pick+, the organization’s highest designation.

Standard safety features across all 2020 Lexus NX models now include the Lexus Safety System 2.0+:

• Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
• Lane-tracing assist
• Lane departure alert with steering assist
• Road sign assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Automatic high beams

Additional standard safety features include:

• Eight airbags
• Vehicle stability control (VSC)
• Traction control (TRAC)
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
• Smart Stop Technology (minimizes unintended acceleration)
• Rearview camera with dynamic gridlines

Optional safety technologies include:

• A blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert
• Intuitive Parking Assist
• Surround-view monitor

Driving

The 2020 Lexus NX isn’t made for carving back canyon roads, but it can hustle when pushed, especially in F Sport trim. The ride quality is smooth and composed, effectively absorbing road imperfections to provide a serene cabin environment, which most Lexus buyers are looking for, anyway.

Standard NX 300s deliver responsive acceleration with minimal turbo lag. The six-speed automatic transmission provides smooth shifts without a hint of abruptness or harshness. While not as quick, the 2020 Lexus NX hybrid offers seamless transitions between electric and gas power.

The steering feel is light, as expected, but precise. The new Active Cornering Assist feature helps improve handling, reducing understeer and providing a more confident feel in corners.

The F Sport trim adds a sport-tuned suspension, which provides slightly firmer ride quality and more responsive handling. While not as sporty as some competitors, it offers a good balance between comfort and dynamic driving.

Interior

While the 2020 Lexus NX's interior is getting old, it still showcases luxury and comfort, offering a well-designed and upscale cabin environment. High-quality materials and attention to detail are evident throughout the interior.

Key interior features include:

• NuLuxe upholstery (leather-like material)
• Available genuine leather seating surfaces
• 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat (including lumbar support)
• 8-way power-adjustable front passenger seat
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• 60/40 split-folding rear seats
• Available heated and ventilated front seats
• New optional power tilt/telescoping steering column

The NX's front seats offer good comfort and support, and while tall drivers may wish for more headroom, there’s more than enough legroom. The situation is similar in the rear, and the rear seats recline.

Cargo space is competitive for the class:

• 17.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats
• 54.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded

The NX 300h hybrid has slightly less cargo space due to its battery placement.

Material quality is generally high throughout the cabin. The F Sport trim adds unique interior accents and sport seats with enhanced bolstering.

The dashboard layout is driver-centric, with controls logically arranged and easy to reach. The infotainment system is controlled via a touchpad on the center console, which may take some getting used to for some users.

Technology

For the first time, the 2020 Lexus NX is equipped with Android Auto, in addition to other desirable standard features.

Key technology features include:

• 8-inch display audio system (standard)
• Available 10.3-inch split-screen multimedia display
• Lexus Enform infotainment system
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Available Mark Levinson premium audio system
• Wi-Fi Connect (subscription required)
• Lexus Enform Remote (includes smartphone control of certain vehicle functions)

The NX also offers practical tech features like multiple USB ports, a 120V power outlet, and an available wireless charging pad for compatible devices.

While the infotainment system's touchpad interface may have a learning curve for some users, the 2020 NX's overall technology package is comprehensive and competitive within its class. The addition of Android Auto and the expanded safety features for 2020 address previous criticisms.

Fuel Economy

The 2020 Lexus NX offers competitive fuel economy ratings for its class. EPA fuel economy estimates are as follows:

NX 300 (2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder):

• FWD (mpg): 22 city / 28 highway / 25 combined
• AWD (mpg): 22 city / 28 highway / 24 combined
• AWD F Sport (mpg): 22 city / 27 highway / 24 combined

NX 300h (hybrid):

• AWD (mpg): 33 city / 30 highway / 31 combined

2020 Lexus NX Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book gave the 2020 Lexus NX an overall rating of 4.5 out of five. Owners praise the NX for its reliability, styling, and quality.

Reasons to Buy It

• Luxurious, silent ride
• High-quality interior materials
• High number of standard safety features
• Up to 33 mpg city with the hybrid model
• Excellent reliability scores

Problems

• The infotainment system interface can be challenging to use
• Less cargo space than some competitors
• Base engine performance may feel underwhelming to some drivers
• F Sport model doesn't significantly enhance sportiness
• Rear seat space may be tight for taller passengers

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CoPilot's Take

Though the 2020 Lexus NX is more of an old-school luxury SUV than the sporty, car-like competitors in the segment, that aligns with its ethos. It sits higher, feels larger, rides silky smooth, and spoils occupants with excellent materials and tech. Other crossovers may be more at home on the twisties, but the NX will eat up miles in comfort.

The cabin provides a luxurious feel, with high-quality materials and attention to detail. The standard safety features are also a significant selling point, especially for safety-conscious buyers.

Lexus NX 300h hybrid models stand out for their excellent fuel economy. The base NX 300's turbocharged engine is more powerful, though, and buyers who want their NX to move quickly will prefer it.

2020 Lexus NX 300 problems are far and few between, with no significant issues affecting the model. As with all Lexus models, reliability is exceptional.

Now for the downsides. The infotainment system's touchpad interface remains a point of contention. While some users may adapt to it quickly, others might find it frustrating compared to touchscreen or dial-based systems in competitor vehicles.

In terms of practicality, the NX offers decent space for a compact SUV, though some rivals provide more cargo room. The slightly tight rear seat might also be a consideration for families with taller teenagers or adults.

2020 Lexus NX FAQs

How much is a 2020 Lexus NX?

According to CoPilot national listings, a 2020 Lexus NX costs $21,000 to $40,000, depending on mileage, condition, equipment, and marketplace conditions.

Does the 2020 Lexus NX require premium gas?

Yes, Lexus recommends premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher for all models.

Where is the 2020 Lexus NX made?

The 2020 Lexus NX is primarily manufactured at the Lexus plant in Miyawaka, Fukuoka, Japan, though the NX model was also produced in Lexus’s Tahara, Aichi, Japan plant.

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