If you’re searching for a smaller SUV that’s also fancy, this one is hard to overlook.
Hop into this compact luxury crossover: the Lexus NX 350h, with the F SPORT Handling package.
It certainly looks the sporty part. It’s painted a stunning, bright metallic red color (which looks strikingly similar to Mazda’s signature red, by the way).
This one is called “Infrared,” and was introduced as a new color option for all grades this year. That red goes very nicely with the black wheels on this one.
Yes, this does have the big Lexus grille that’s wider at the bottom than at the top. It’s a visual signature that takes a little bit of getting used to.
This NX 350h is actually the least powerful NX available, but it does get an EPA-estimated 39 miles per gallon combined.
The NX is also available in gas-only form (the NX 350) and as a plug-in hybrid (the NX 450h+).
Lexus says this F SPORT Handling version “turns up the driving dynamics with a sporty feel” and also features bolstered sport seats and aluminum pedals. The more aggressive suspension still nicely soaks up bumps.
Touches inside include a huge center screen and ambient reddish-purple light. The rear seat and cargo area are definitely in the “usable” category. As usual, Lexus equals quality, with the brand getting consistent top marks in the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study.
The one I drove came to $59,830, after shipping, with a smattering of options, including a premium audio system and a panoramic glass roof.