MODEL
Lexus NX 350 Safety
NHTSA safety across every Lexus NX 350 model year we cover.
Across the 5 model years of the Lexus NX 350 we cover (2022 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2026 at 93 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2024 at 88. No recalls are on record across those years.
The Lexus NX 350 is a compact luxury SUV that competes in one of the most crowded segments in the American market. Aimed at buyers who want premium refinement, a composed driving experience, and a smaller footprint than a three-row hauler, the NX 350 slots in as the volume-leading gasoline-powered member of Lexus's second-generation NX family, covering model years 2022 through 2025 in our review window.
Side-impact protection for the 2023 Lexus NX 350 achieved a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in NHTSA testing, a critical result given the dynamics of real-world collisions. This performance contributes to an overall NHTSA Safety Index of 92 out of 100, placing the vehicle in the Exceptional band for safety. Frontal crash protection received 4 out of 5 stars. Rollover resistance was not rated for the 2023 model year, leaving this aspect of its safety profile unassessed by federal data. Across its 2022 to 2025 model years, the NX 350 has no recalls on record, a noteworthy achievement that distinguishes its safety standing. Owner-submitted complaints total 72 over the same period. Among these unverified reports, 13 reference crashes and 7 describe injuries. Two complaints specifically allege fire-related incidents, a category always warranting attention. The NX 350 demonstrates strong safety performance, supported by its high Safety Index score and an unblemished recall history.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Lexus NX 350 as a polished and well-rounded compact luxury SUV that delivers a calm, composed driving experience with a high-quality interior. Most praise the significant generational improvements in technology and refinement, while some note that the driving dynamics lean more toward comfort than driver engagement. Overall sentiment across the professional press is consistently positive.
- The NX 350 earned a peak NHTSA Safety Index of 92 out of 100 in its 2023 model year, placing it in the Exceptional performance band, which is one of the stronger results in the compact luxury SUV segment.
- Side-impact crash protection is a genuine strength, with a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in that discipline, while the 4 out of 5 frontal rating is solid but leaves a small margin below the best available scores.
- Across all four model years covered (2022 to 2025), Lexus has issued zero recalls on the NX 350, an unusually clean record that reflects well on manufacturing consistency and post-launch quality monitoring.
- Owner complaints include 2 unverified fire-related allegations and 13 unverified crash-related allegations across the coverage window. These remain unverified, but shoppers should check the NHTSA complaints database for any updates before purchasing.