Lexus has released its second generation of compact SUVs. Sharing a platform with the current Toyota RAV4, the 2022 NX comes with four engines and trim options, trying to provide something for every compact luxury SUV buyer. With so many choices available in its NX range, the choice is often overwhelming for buyers. But this guide will take you through the new Lexus NX 300h and its trims, so you can make an informed decision.

Interiors

Lexus NX 300h feels the most SUV-like. The car comes with the tallest five-seat compact luxury hybrid crossover. But the tall ride height and doors make getting in and out feel like a breeze. NX’s driving position is pretty comfortable, courtesy of the many telescopic updates with the steering wheel. There is ample headroom in the rear and front seats.

Comfort

This is a top-notch road-trip car, as its rear and front seats are supportive and comfortable, and the ride quality on every road surface is smooth. Both small and big bumps are soaked comfortably. Equipped with a standard automatic dual-zone climate control, it is quiet and fast in heating or cooling the tiny cabin. Also, the intuitive climate controls are located within arm’s reach, so it’s accessible. Things are pretty soundless on the highway, too. But you may hear wind noise over the side view mirror and the roof.

Fuel economy

Available in two trims, both engineered with a nickel-metal hydride battery pack and a four-cylinder 2.5-liter engine, the vehicle yields a 258 lb.-ft. Torque and 194 hp. Its combined EPA estimate is 31 mpg. However, the fuel economy is somewhat lower than the competitors but not off the mark.

Storage

The new Lexus NX 300h is curtailed to merely 16.8 cubes behind the rear seats, less than the small-sized rivals. Its interior storage is also not the best. The car has thin air pockets and cannot accommodate anything more than tiny water bottles. Moreover, the cupholders of the four primary positions feel cramped. You also do not have ample space for other things like your phone. The rear seats feel tight. So, installing a child seat may be problematic.

Interface and connectivity

There is an 8-inch display in the base trim, but the Luxury trim has a 10.3-inch split screen display. Both the trims have Bluetooth, HD radio, a Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. You get the latest weather and traffic update, simulated views of the highway junctions, and 3D city views with voice-activated navigation. You can also get an update on the nearby gas stations when you run out of fuel. But, on the low side, some tech-savvy buyers find the remote touch infotainment interface a deal-breaker. Moreover, its large center console has several oddly angled buttons. Hence, they do not feel very natural.

NX provides a plush interior and a roomy backseat in a reasonably sized package. Even though the new Lexus NX 300h assures better mileage, its mushy brakes and drivetrain responses reduce the driving experience. Its touchpad multimedia interface is also not the best there is. Hence, in a way, it does let down a bit and leaves so much to be yearned for, if compared to the latest German crossovers. That said, one cannot deny it is a good car.

It is an excellent pick for city life, as its hybrid system is quiet and smooth, and you can enjoy the superior comforts of its leather-lined cabin. Economical and solid, it hits some marks you probably expect from a Lexus. The vehicle’s price tag is in line with high-end compact SUVs, making it an excellent luxury buy. Overall, with more polish on the existing formula, the next one will tick more boxes.