The Lexus NX 300 is a popular choice in the compact luxury SUV segment, known for its reliability, comfort, and stylish design. However, like any vehicle, some model years are more desirable than others. This guide will delve into the best and worst years for the NX 300, helping you make an informed decision when purchasing a used model.
Lexus NX 300: Year-by-Year Breakdown
| Model Year | Key Features & Changes | Potential Issues & Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | First year of production; distinctive exterior design, comfortable interior, standard Lexus Safety System+ | Some early production issues reported, infotainment system can feel dated |
| 2016 | Minor trim changes, improved sound insulation | Similar to 2015, infotainment remains a common complaint |
| 2017 | No significant changes | No major issues reported, infotainment still lags behind competitors |
| 2018 | Mid-cycle refresh: updated exterior styling, larger infotainment screen, improved suspension | Infotainment system still not perfect, but a notable improvement |
| 2019 | Apple CarPlay added, Amazon Alexa compatibility | Generally a reliable year, infotainment still a point of contention for some |
| 2020 | Standard blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert | Very reliable year, minimal complaints |
| 2021 | Last year of the NX 300 before the redesign; Black Line Special Edition | Excellent reliability, well-equipped |
Detailed Explanations
2015: First Year of Production
The 2015 Lexus NX 300 marked the debut of this compact luxury SUV. It featured a bold, angular exterior design that polarized opinions but undoubtedly made a statement. The interior offered a comfortable and refined experience, typical of Lexus. Standard features included the Lexus Safety System+, which incorporated pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. However, being the first model year, some early production issues were reported, and the infotainment system, while functional, lacked the modern features and responsiveness of newer systems.
2016: Minor Trim Changes, Improved Sound Insulation
The 2016 NX 300 saw only minor trim level adjustments and improvements to sound insulation, aiming for an even quieter cabin experience. The core features and design remained largely unchanged from the 2015 model. The infotainment system continued to be a point of contention for some owners, as it still felt dated compared to competitors' offerings.
2017: No Significant Changes
The 2017 NX 300 was essentially a carryover model, with no significant changes from the previous year. Reliability remained strong, and no major issues were widely reported. However, potential buyers should still be aware that the infotainment system was not cutting-edge at this point.
2018: Mid-Cycle Refresh
The 2018 model year brought a significant mid-cycle refresh to the Lexus NX 300. The exterior received updated styling, including a revised front grille and headlights. Inside, a larger infotainment screen was introduced, improving usability. The suspension was also tweaked for enhanced ride comfort. While the infotainment system was improved, it still wasn't considered perfect by all users.
2019: Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa Compatibility
The 2019 NX 300 finally addressed a major complaint by adding Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa compatibility. This significantly enhanced the infotainment experience and made the vehicle more appealing to tech-savvy buyers. Reliability remained high, making it a generally desirable model year. However, the underlying infotainment system architecture was still the same, so some users still found it less intuitive than competitor systems.
2020: Standard Blind-Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
The 2020 NX 300 made blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert standard features, enhancing safety and driver assistance. This model year is considered very reliable, with minimal complaints reported by owners. It's a strong choice for buyers looking for a well-equipped and dependable used NX 300.
2021: Last Year of NX 300, Black Line Special Edition
The 2021 Lexus NX 300 marked the final year of this generation before a full redesign. It was an excellent year for reliability and offered a well-rounded package of features. A Black Line Special Edition added unique styling elements for a more distinctive appearance. This model year is highly recommended for its overall quality and feature set.
Years to Consider
- 2020 and 2021: These are generally considered the best years for the Lexus NX 300. They offer the most standard safety features, excellent reliability, and a reasonably up-to-date infotainment system (especially with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto).
- 2019: The addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto makes this year a significant upgrade over previous models. It's a good balance of features and reliability.
- 2018: The mid-cycle refresh brought styling updates and a larger infotainment screen, making it a decent option if you prefer the refreshed look.
Years to Approach with Caution
- 2015, 2016, and 2017: While still relatively reliable, these early model years have a less desirable infotainment system and may have some early production quirks. If considering these years, prioritize a thorough inspection and service history check.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Used Lexus NX 300
- Mileage: Lower mileage vehicles generally command higher prices but may have less wear and tear.
- Maintenance History: A well-documented maintenance history is crucial. Look for regular oil changes, tire rotations, and other scheduled services.
- Accident History: Check for any accident history using a service like Carfax or AutoCheck.
- Infotainment System: Consider how important the infotainment system is to you. If you heavily rely on smartphone integration, prioritize the 2019 and later models.
- Trim Level: The NX 300 is available in various trim levels, each offering different features and amenities. Research the different trims to find one that meets your needs and budget.
- Pre-Purchase Inspection: Always get a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic before buying any used car. This can help identify potential problems that may not be immediately obvious.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most reliable year for the Lexus NX 300?
The 2020 and 2021 model years are generally considered the most reliable due to minimal reported issues and standard safety features.
Does the Lexus NX 300 have Apple CarPlay?
Apple CarPlay was added starting with the 2019 model year.
Is the Lexus NX 300 expensive to maintain?
No, the Lexus NX 300 is known for its relatively low maintenance costs compared to other luxury SUVs.
What are the common problems with the Lexus NX 300?
Early models (2015-2017) had some complaints about the infotainment system. Overall, the NX 300 is known for its reliability.
Is the Lexus NX 300 a good value for the money?
Yes, the Lexus NX 300 offers a good balance of luxury, reliability, and features for its price point.
Conclusion
Choosing the right year for a used Lexus NX 300 involves balancing features, reliability, and budget. The 2020 and 2021 models stand out as the best choices due to their enhanced safety features and strong reliability record, while earlier models might require more careful consideration due to older infotainment systems. Conduct thorough research and a pre-purchase inspection to ensure you get the best possible value and a reliable vehicle.