The Best Years For Lexus Nx200t And Some To Avoid

The Lexus NX200t, later renamed the NX 300, is a compact luxury crossover that offers a blend of style, comfort, and reliability. Choosing the right model year can significantly impact your ownership experience. This guide will help you navigate the various years of the NX200t and identify the best options, as well as potential years to avoid.

Lexus NX200T Model Year Overview

Model Year	Notable Features & Improvements	Potential Issues & Considerations
2015	Launch year, turbocharged engine, Lexus Safety System+ (optional)	Potential transmission issues, early infotainment system quirks
2016	Minor updates to trim levels and features	Some reports of rattling noises from the dashboard
2017	Available power rear door with kick sensor	No significant changes from 2016
2018	Renamed to NX 300, updated exterior styling, larger infotainment screen	Some reports of engine hesitation
2019	Standard Lexus Safety System+ 2.0	No significant changes from 2018
2020	Minor updates to interior trim and features	Last year of the NX 300 with the 2.0L Turbo Engine

Detailed Explanations

2015: Launch Year, Turbocharged Engine, Lexus Safety System+ (optional)

The 2015 NX200t marked the introduction of Lexus' compact luxury crossover. Its main selling point was its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, offering a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The optional Lexus Safety System+ included features like pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control, providing enhanced safety. However, being the first model year, it had some teething issues.

Potential transmission issues were reported by some owners, specifically related to rough shifting or delayed engagement. Early infotainment system quirks were also noted, including occasional freezes or slow response times.

2016: Minor Updates to Trim Levels and Features

The 2016 model year saw minor refinements to trim levels and feature availability. Lexus addressed some of the initial concerns from the 2015 model, leading to a slightly more refined experience. While generally reliable, some owners reported rattling noises from the dashboard, which could be a nuisance.

2017: Available Power Rear Door with Kick Sensor

The 2017 NX200t introduced the convenience of a power rear door with a kick sensor, allowing for hands-free operation. Otherwise, it was largely similar to the 2016 model in terms of features and performance. There were no significant changes from 2016, so reliability remained consistent.

2018: Renamed to NX 300, Updated Exterior Styling, Larger Infotainment Screen

In 2018, Lexus rebranded the NX200t to the NX 300. This model year brought significant updates, including revised exterior styling for a more modern look and a larger infotainment screen for improved usability. While the engine remained the same, the overall driving experience was enhanced. However, some reports of engine hesitation during acceleration surfaced.

2019: Standard Lexus Safety System+ 2.0

The 2019 NX 300 made Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 standard across all trims. This advanced safety suite included features like lane tracing assist and road sign assist, providing an even greater level of driver assistance. There were no significant changes from 2018, maintaining a consistent level of reliability and performance.

2020: Minor Updates to Interior Trim and Features, Last Year of 2.0L Turbo Engine

The 2020 model year was the last year for the NX 300 with the 2.0L Turbo Engine. It featured minor updates to interior trim and available features, offering a slightly more refined cabin experience. This model year marks the end of an era for this particular engine in the NX lineup.

Best Years: Diving Deeper

While all NX200t/NX300 model years offer a generally reliable experience, some stand out as better choices than others. Here's a more in-depth look at the best options:

2019 Lexus NX 300: This year offers a compelling combination of features and reliability. The standard Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 provides excellent safety features, and the overall design is well-regarded. The 2019 model benefits from several years of refinements, addressing many of the initial issues found in the earlier models. It represents a sweet spot in terms of technology and value.
2020 Lexus NX 300: As the last year of production for this generation with the 2.0L Turbo Engine, the 2020 model benefits from all previous improvements and refinements. While the changes from 2019 are minimal, it offers the most up-to-date version of this particular NX model.

Years to Potentially Avoid: Addressing Concerns

While the Lexus NX200t/NX300 is generally a reliable vehicle, certain years might warrant closer scrutiny before purchase:

2015 Lexus NX200t: As the inaugural model year, the 2015 NX200t is more likely to have issues related to the transmission and infotainment system. While these issues may have been addressed in later models through recalls or updates, buying a 2015 model requires a thorough inspection and a careful review of its service history.
2016 Lexus NX200t: While an improvement over the 2015 model, the 2016 NX200t still carries some of the early production quirks. The reported dashboard rattling, while not a major mechanical issue, can be a source of annoyance for some owners.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Year

When selecting an NX200t/NX300, keep the following factors in mind:

Budget: Older model years will generally be more affordable, but they may require more maintenance and lack some of the newer features.
Features: Consider which features are most important to you, such as advanced safety systems, infotainment technology, or specific comfort features.
Mileage and Condition: Always inspect the vehicle thoroughly and review its maintenance history. Higher mileage vehicles may require more maintenance in the near future.
Vehicle History Report: Obtain a vehicle history report from a reputable source like Carfax or AutoCheck to check for accidents, title issues, and odometer discrepancies.
Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection to identify any potential mechanical issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between NX200t and NX300? The NX200t was renamed the NX300 in 2018. They both have the same 2.0L turbocharged engine.

Which year has the best safety features? The 2019 NX 300 is a good choice due to the standard Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which includes advanced driver-assistance technologies.

Are there any known transmission problems? Some owners of the 2015 and early 2016 models have reported transmission issues, so it's crucial to check the service history.

Is the infotainment system easy to use? The infotainment system in the earlier models can be a bit clunky, but the larger screen introduced in 2018 improved usability.

What is the fuel economy like? The NX200t/NX300 offers decent fuel economy for its class, typically around 22 MPG city and 28 MPG highway.

How reliable is the Lexus NX200t/NX300? The Lexus NX200t/NX300 is generally considered a reliable vehicle, especially in later model years.

What should I look for in a used NX200t/NX300? Check for regular maintenance, accident history, and any signs of transmission issues or infotainment problems.

Is the NX200t/NX300 a good value for the money? Yes, the NX200t/NX300 offers a good balance of luxury, reliability, and features for its price point.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Lexus NX200t/NX300 model year depends on your individual needs and priorities. While the 2019 and 2020 models offer the most advanced features and refined experience, earlier models can still be a good value if properly maintained. Thorough research and a pre-purchase inspection are essential to ensure you select a reliable and enjoyable vehicle.