MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

MODEL

Lexus NX 250 Safety

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 MOTORCALIBER REVIEW
MotorCaliber editorial ◆ Reviewed against NHTSA data ◆ 2026-10-01

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.

Zero recalls have been recorded for the Lexus NX 250 across the 2022 to 2025 model years, a notable and uncommon result. This clean record underpins a genuinely solid safety picture for the 2023 model, which achieved an Exceptional NHTSA Safety Index score of 92 out of 100. Crash-test performance for the NX 250 is strong in key areas. It earned a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in side-impact testing, complemented by a respectable 4 out of 5 stars in frontal crash assessments. Shoppers prioritizing specific metrics should note that rollover results were not rated. Owner complaints across the four model years total 72, a moderate figure. Within these unverified allegations, 13 involve reported crashes and 7 involve reported injuries; no deaths are reported. The NX 250 demonstrates a crash-test performance that inspires 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.

WHAT TO KNOW
  • 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.

Safety Index by year

BY YEARNX 250 by model year

Other Lexus models