2020 Lexus NX

Getting behind the wheel of a Lexus NX 300 isn't as pricey as you might think for a luxury compact SUV, with the base price starting at $36,870. The slightly more athletic-looking F Sport increases the starting MSRP by $2,240, while the top-tier Luxury asks for an investment of $43,960. Every model gives buyers the option of equipping an all-wheel drivetrain for an additional $1,400. The price of the Lexus NX excludes tax, registration, licensing, and the manufacturer's $1,025 destination charge.

Luxury is the name of the game when it comes to the Lexus NX, so it naturally delivers a sublimely smooth driving experience. The suspension is a little on the firm side, though, but it still absorbs all but the most aggressive bumps without much complaint. The F Sport gets sport-tuned suspension that is stiffer still, but even that still leans more towards comfort than top-speed maneuvering. Nevertheless, the NX can handle itself on a windy road. Expect some body roll if you push the crossover's limits, but they don't come up as quickly as you might think.

The steering is well-weighted when moving at speed, while still being light and precise when slowly maneuvering around town or busy parking lots. The brakes are equally capable, although they can be a little grabby when applied in emergency situations, resulting in some alarming nosediving.

Three drive modes come standard: Normal, Eco, and Sport. The first makes no changes to the vehicle's standard operations, while the second focuses on improving fuel efficiency. Sport mode makes throttle responses more precise to improve acceleration; however, it is the Sport S+ mode exclusive to the F Sport that offers the most improvement to driving dynamics.

The Lexus NX offers some mild off-roading capabilities thanks to its available all-wheel drivetrain and lockable center differential, but the relatively low ground clearance doesn't inspire confidence over rougher terrain, so you may want to stick to the urban jungle.

The Lexus NX SUV certainly has a lot to recommend it, with laudable safety and reliability reviews from a variety of independent organizations. It won the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award this year and boasts a five-star rating from the NHTSA. But safety isn't the only place the compact luxury SUV excels.

Throughout its trim levels, the NX offers a well-appointed and -designed cabin with a host of standard comfort and convenience features. It is also remarkably spacious inside, for passengers, that is. Unfortunately, the crossover does suffer from slightly sub-par trunk space. And while it may have plenty of modern features, the Lexus infotainment system feels outdated and difficult to operate. At least Android Auto is standard this year.

When it comes to driving, there is nothing to complain about. But the Lexus NX won't excite you either. Ride comfort is definitely the strong point, with the suspension easily eating up most bumps you are likely to encounter in town. However, the NX isn't all that athletic, even in its F Sport trim, so many competitors like the BMW X3 will appeal more to those who want a capable daily driver that is still fun. Nonetheless, the Lexus is certainly a good vehicle and should be on the shortlist of buyers who want a capable family SUV, although those who really need more cargo space might want to look at more generous rivals or a larger segment altogether.

With some of the changes made to the lineup for 2020, choosing the right Lexus NX for yourself is a bit trickier. The F Sport still makes the same superficial changes it made last year, so unless you really want the slightly more aggressive styling and mildly enhanced driving dynamics, we suggest skipping it, yet again. If you want a more luxurious SUV, though, you will want to look at the Luxury trim, which is now the only model that comes with genuine leather upholstery along with a host of standard features that have to be optioned on to the lower trim levels. Still, for value for money, the NX 300 is the way to go, although we do suggest throwing on the Comfort Package for a little more luxury and safety.

The RX is the big brother to the NX, resting in the midsize luxury crossover SUV segment. Naturally, this means it bears a slightly higher price tag in comparison to the compact NX. However, the RX also gets a more capable powertrain to haul that extra weight. The V6 engine develops 295 hp and 267 lb-ft to either the front wheels or all four on the five-seater SUV. The RX is built just as well as the NX, with high-quality materials throughout the cabin. It also enjoys extremely high safety ratings. With larger dimensions than the NX, the RX is able to provide even more passenger space inside the cabin but the trunk is only 16 cubic feet. This isn't much more than the NX, though, and it's subpar for the RX's segment. With comparable tech and comfort features to the NX, and competitive fuel economy for its segment, the RX is certainly worth considering if you want the extra passenger space and engine power. However, the NX is more bang for your buck in a compact and handles and drives the way a Lexus should - don't make a decision without going for a test drive first.

Much like the RX is the big brother, the UX is the little brother to the NX. This means it gets the weaker engine and smaller dimensions you'd expect from a subcompact. The four-cylinder doesn't get a turbocharger, so it only develops 169 hp and 151 lb-ft, so don't expect to be flying down the road anytime soon. But the NX is hardly a speed demon, either. The UX is certainly more maneuverable around town with its smaller dimensions, and it handles surprisingly well. The subcompact is just as well-appointed as its big brother, and might even be more handsome inside, although it doesn't offer as much passenger space. Where the little beast has the larger NX beat, though, is trunk space, offering a whopping 21.7 cubic feet with the rear seats up. Overall, there is a reason the Lexus UX rates so highly in our subcompact list, much higher than the NX does in its own segment. Unless your family consists of two or three extremely lanky teenagers, the UX should serve you better as a daily town driver.