Lexus NX 200t Review

Lexus is well-known for its SUVs such as the RX 350 and LX 570, but small crossovers were a late addition. The Lexus NX 200t was Lexus' first entry in the compact luxury crossover SUV market. It boasted more aggressive styling and a sharper driving experience than you might have expected from Lexus, yet it preserved the quiet cabin and exceptional quality for which the brand is known.

Used Lexus NX 200t Models
The Lexus NX 200t was introduced as an all-new model for 2015 and had no major changes over its three-year model run. For the 2018 model year, the NX 200t was replaced by an updated version with a new name, NX 300 (reviewed separately).

The Lexus NX 200t was sold in a single trim level that came standard with simulated leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control and power front seats, among other luxury features. Lexus also offered the NX 200t with an F Sport package, which included a sport-tuned suspension, deeply bolstered front seats, unique gauges, and sportier trim inside and out.

Power for the Lexus NX 200t came from a 235-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. We timed a front-wheel-drive NX 200t from 0 to 60 mph in 7 seconds, which was average for this class of vehicle. The EPA rated the NX 200t at 25 mpg combined with front-wheel drive and 24 mpg with all-wheel drive.

The NX 200t was enjoyable to drive, especially when equipped with the F Sport package, and its suspension smoothly absorbed even the most abusive bumps that passed under the wheels. The engine was more refined than the turbocharged ones found in contemporary competitors, rivaling V6-powered models we'd driven for smoothness and quietness.

We liked the contemporary feel of the Lexus NX 200t's interior. Materials quality was excellent with remarkable attention to detail, such as padded surfaces on the parts of the center console that the front passengers' legs were most likely to contact. We weren't fans of Lexus' Remote Touch infotainment interface, which required too much attention to use while driving. Fortunately, lower-trim NX 200ts could be ordered without it. We also wished Lexus would join the rest of the industry and start fitting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to its vehicles.

When it comes to passenger space, the NX 200t excelled, taking advantage of its larger exterior size to provide plenty of room for occupants. But it was less friendly to cargo, with just 17.7 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place and 54.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. For buyers who could deal with its few shortcomings, the Lexus NX 200t was a compelling choice.

Read the most recent 2017 Lexus NX 200t review.

If you are looking for older years, visit our used Lexus NX 200t page.