Let's dive into the 2021 Lexus NX 350 F Sport review. This compact SUV has been making waves, and for good reason. It blends luxury, performance, and sporty aesthetics into a compelling package. As we dissect every aspect of this vehicle, you’ll get a comprehensive look at what makes the NX 350 F Sport stand out in a crowded market. We'll explore everything from its engine and handling to its interior comforts and tech features, ensuring you have all the insights you need.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2021 Lexus NX 350 F Sport doesn't disappoint. Under the hood, you'll find a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that churns out an impressive 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This power is delivered smoothly and efficiently through a six-speed automatic transmission, providing brisk acceleration and confident overtaking capabilities. The F Sport variant enhances the driving experience with its sport-tuned suspension, which offers a firmer ride and reduced body roll, making it more engaging on twisty roads. The steering is precise and well-weighted, giving you a good sense of connection with the road. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the NX 350 F Sport provides a balanced and enjoyable driving experience. The all-wheel-drive system ensures confident traction in various weather conditions, adding an extra layer of security and control. Overall, the performance and handling of the NX 350 F Sport are among its strongest attributes, making it a joy to drive.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the 2021 Lexus NX 350 F Sport, you're immediately greeted by a cabin that exudes luxury and sophistication. The interior is meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, including supple leather upholstery, brushed aluminum accents, and soft-touch surfaces. The F Sport seats are particularly noteworthy, offering excellent support and bolstering to keep you firmly in place during spirited driving. These seats are also heated and ventilated, ensuring optimal comfort in any climate. The cabin is spacious enough to comfortably accommodate five passengers, with ample legroom and headroom in both the front and rear. The rear seats can also be reclined for added comfort on long journeys. In terms of technology, the NX 350 F Sport comes equipped with a user-friendly infotainment system, featuring a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium sound system. The intuitive interface and responsive controls make it easy to access navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. Additional comfort features include dual-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a power-adjustable steering column. The interior of the NX 350 F Sport is a testament to Lexus's commitment to providing a luxurious and comfortable driving experience.

Technology and Features

The technology and features in the 2021 Lexus NX 350 F Sport are cutting-edge. The centerpiece is a vibrant 10.3-inch infotainment display, offering crisp graphics and intuitive menus. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration come standard, making smartphone connectivity seamless. The Lexus Enform suite provides access to a variety of connected services, including navigation, remote start, and vehicle health reports. Safety is also a top priority, with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 equipped as standard. This comprehensive suite of safety features includes pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, and road sign assist. The NX 350 F Sport also offers advanced driver-assistance features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking assist. The optional Mark Levinson premium sound system delivers exceptional audio quality, enhancing the overall driving experience. With its advanced technology and comprehensive suite of features, the NX 350 F Sport offers a connected, safe, and enjoyable driving experience.

Exterior Design

The exterior design of the 2021 Lexus NX 350 F Sport is both striking and sporty. The signature Lexus spindle grille dominates the front fascia, flanked by sleek LED headlights and aggressive air intakes. The F Sport package adds unique styling elements such as a mesh grille insert, a more aggressive front bumper, and distinctive alloy wheels. The NX 350 F Sport has a dynamic and athletic stance, thanks to its sculpted body lines and sharp creases. The rear of the vehicle features LED taillights with a distinctive L-shaped design, as well as a sporty rear spoiler and diffuser. The overall design is both modern and eye-catching, making the NX 350 F Sport stand out from the crowd. The available exterior colors further enhance its appeal, with options ranging from classic black and white to more vibrant shades like red and blue. The NX 350 F Sport's exterior design is a perfect blend of luxury and sportiness, reflecting its dynamic driving capabilities.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for any car buyer, and the 2021 Lexus NX 350 F Sport offers competitive fuel economy in its class. According to EPA estimates, the NX 350 F Sport achieves around 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. These figures are respectable for a compact SUV with a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive. In real-world driving conditions, fuel economy may vary depending on driving style and road conditions. However, the NX 350 F Sport's efficient engine and well-tuned transmission help to maximize fuel economy without sacrificing performance. The vehicle also features an Eco mode, which further optimizes fuel consumption by adjusting engine and transmission settings. While the NX 350 F Sport may not be the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market, it strikes a good balance between performance and efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily driving.

Pricing and Value

When evaluating the pricing and value of the 2021 Lexus NX 350 F Sport, it's important to consider its competitive set and the features it offers. The NX 350 F Sport is priced in line with other luxury compact SUVs, such as the Acura RDX, BMW X3, and Audi Q5. However, the NX 350 F Sport stands out with its sporty styling, luxurious interior, and comprehensive suite of standard features. The F Sport package adds even more value with its sport-tuned suspension, unique styling elements, and enhanced performance. While the NX 350 F Sport may not be the cheapest option in its class, it offers a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and features that make it a worthwhile investment. Additionally, Lexus has a strong reputation for reliability and resale value, which further enhances the overall value proposition of the NX 350 F Sport. Considering its quality, features, and reputation, the NX 350 F Sport offers excellent value for money.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2021 Lexus NX 350 F Sport.

Pros:

• Sporty and Stylish Design: The NX 350 F Sport boasts a distinctive and eye-catching exterior design, with aggressive styling elements that set it apart from other SUVs in its class.
• Luxurious Interior: The cabin is meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, offering a comfortable and refined driving experience.
• Engaging Performance: The turbocharged engine delivers brisk acceleration, while the sport-tuned suspension provides confident handling.
• Comprehensive Features: The NX 350 F Sport comes equipped with a wide range of standard features, including advanced safety technologies and a user-friendly infotainment system.
• Strong Reliability: Lexus has a strong reputation for reliability, which translates to lower ownership costs and greater peace of mind.

Cons:

• Infotainment System: While the infotainment system is feature-rich, some users may find the touchpad controller less intuitive than traditional touchscreens.
• Fuel Economy: While competitive, the NX 350 F Sport's fuel economy is not class-leading.
• Cargo Space: The NX 350 F Sport offers less cargo space than some of its competitors.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, the 2021 Lexus NX 350 F Sport is a compelling choice in the luxury compact SUV segment. It offers a winning combination of sporty styling, luxurious interior, engaging performance, and comprehensive features. While it may have a few minor drawbacks, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. If you're looking for a stylish and fun-to-drive SUV that doesn't compromise on luxury or technology, the NX 350 F Sport is definitely worth considering. Its blend of performance, comfort, and features makes it a standout in its class, offering a rewarding ownership experience.