UK US
← Lexus NX · 2015-2021 · AZ10

Lexus NX 1st Gen (2015-2021)

Lexus's first compact CUV. 2.0L turbo (235 hp) or 2.5L hybrid (194 hp). Spindle-grille launch.

Verdict
B
BHP
194-235 bhp
0–60
7.0 s
Top speed
124 mph
MPG
25.0 mpg
Used
$18,000-$38,000

AZ10 platform shared with Toyota RAV4 (XA40 generation). Two engines for the US market: 2.0L 8AR-FTS turbocharged direct-injection I4 (235 hp / 258 lb-ft) on NX 200t / NX 300 (renamed for 2018) — Lexus's first turbocharged engine. 2.5L Atkinson-cycle hybrid I4 with electric motor (194 hp combined, 154 hp ICE) on NX 300h. Six-speed automatic on turbo cars, eCVT on hybrid. FWD standard, AWD optional (full-time AWD on hybrid via rear-electric-motor; electronic torque-on-demand on turbo cars). F Sport trim added 2015 (revised front fascia, mesh grille, sport-tuned dampers, 18-inch wheels, F Sport interior trim). 2018 mid-cycle facelift refreshed front/rear fascias, updated infotainment with available 10.3-inch screen, added Lexus Safety System+ as standard. Standard equipment evolved through the run: dual-zone climate, leather, blind-spot monitoring, Mark Levinson audio optional. Production at Toyota Kyushu plant. Total NX 1st gen production strong — became one of Lexus's bestselling models globally.

Strengths

  • Lexus's first turbocharged engine (2.0L 235 hp)
  • Hybrid 300h variant (194 hp, 31 mpg combined)
  • Spindle-grille design language launch vehicle
  • F Sport variant with sport-tuned dampers
  • Reliable RAV4-shared platform underneath

Weaknesses

  • Six-speed automatic dated by mid-cycle
  • Lexus Enform infotainment buggy
  • Cargo space modest for the segment
  • Cabin materials below the segment best
  • F Sport's harder ride polarises

Notable tech

  • 8AR-FTS 2.0L turbo I4 (Lexus's first turbo)
  • 2.5L Atkinson hybrid (194 hp combined)
  • Six-speed automatic on turbo cars
  • Spindle grille design language
  • Mark Levinson audio (optional)
  • Lexus Safety System+ (2018+)

Common issues

  • 8AR-FTS direct-injection carbon build-up
  • Lexus Enform infotainment freezes
  • Hybrid battery degradation (post-100k miles)
  • HVAC actuator failures
  • Power liftgate motor failures

Used-market budget

$26,000

2015-2017 cars $18-26k. 2018-2021 cars $24-38k. F Sport and Hybrid examples worth modest premium. Documented carbon-cleaning service is critical for high-mileage 8AR-FTS examples.