MODEL
Lexus NX 250
NHTSA safety across every Lexus NX 250 model year we cover.
Across the 4 model years of the Lexus NX 250 we cover (2022 to 2025), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2023 at 92 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2024 at 88. No recalls are on record across those years.
The Lexus NX 250 is a compact luxury SUV that slots into one of the most competitive segments in the American market. Aimed at buyers who want premium refinement, a polished cabin, and a credible safety record without stepping into a full-size footprint, the NX 250 competes directly against German and domestic rivals for the attention of style-conscious, safety-minded shoppers.
The Lexus NX 250 puts together a genuinely solid safety picture across the 2022 to 2025 model years we cover at MotorCaliber, and the headline number worth leading with is its best NHTSA Safety Index score of 92 out of 100 for the 2023 model year, landing in the Exceptional band. That is a meaningful result in a segment full of capable competitors. Crash-test performance is largely strong, with a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in the side-impact discipline and a respectable 4 out of 5 in frontal testing. Rollover results were not rated in the data we cover, which is worth noting for shoppers who prioritize that specific metric. On the recall front, the NX 250 posts a clean sheet across all four model years, with zero recalls recorded. That is an uncommon and genuinely reassuring result. Owner complaints across the covered years total 72, which is a moderate figure for a four-year window. Within those unverified allegations, 13 involve reported crashes and 7 involve reported injuries, numbers that shoppers should weigh thoughtfully even though NHTSA has not substantiated them. No deaths are reported. The bottom line here is straightforward. The NX 250 backs up its premium positioning with a crash-test performance that earns real confidence, a spotless recall record, and a complaint volume that does not raise immediate red flags.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Lexus NX 250 as a well-rounded compact luxury SUV that delivers a calm, refined driving experience with a thoughtfully designed interior. Most praise its build quality and upscale feel, while some note that the infotainment system has drawn mixed reactions. It is widely considered a sensible, composed choice in its class.
- The 2023 NX 250 earned a 92 out of 100 NHTSA Safety Index score, placing it in the Exceptional band, which is one of the stronger results in the compact luxury SUV segment.
- Side-impact crash protection is a clear strength, with a 5 out of 5 star rating, though the frontal result of 4 out of 5 stars means shoppers should not assume perfect performance across every test category.
- The NX 250 carries zero recalls across all four model years covered from 2022 to 2025, a notably clean record that sets it apart from many competitors in this price range.
- Owner complaints total 72 across the covered years, including 13 alleged crashes and 7 alleged injuries. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA, but they are worth reviewing in detail on the agency's complaint database before purchase.