MODEL
Lexus Nx300
NHTSA safety across every Lexus Nx300 model year we cover.
Across the 2 model years of the Lexus Nx300 we cover (2019 to 2020), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2020 at 89 on the NHTSA Safety Index. 1 recall have been issued across those years.
The Lexus NX 300 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 and a smaller footprint than a three-row crossover, the NX 300 competes directly against the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Mercedes-Benz GLC. The 2019 and 2020 model years represent a mature, well-established generation of this vehicle.
At MotorCaliber, we focus strictly on safety, and the 2019 to 2020 Lexus NX 300 presents a generally reassuring picture for shoppers in the compact luxury SUV space. The best NHTSA Safety Index across our covered years lands at 89 out of 100 for the 2019 model, placing it firmly in our Strong band. That score is backed by solid crash-test hardware: a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in the side-impact test, a respectable 4 out of 5 in the frontal test, and a 4 out of 5 in rollover resistance. The side-impact result is particularly noteworthy, as that test simulates one of the most dangerous real-world collision scenarios. The rollover and frontal scores, while not perfect, are competitive for this segment and body style. On the recall front, the NX 300 carries just one recall across both covered model years, which is a low count and a positive signal. Owner complaints total 56 across 2019 and 2020 combined, with 3 alleged crashes, 1 alleged fire, 4 alleged injuries, and no alleged fatalities reported. These are unverified allegations, as is standard with NHTSA complaint data, but the overall complaint volume is modest for a two-year window. The bottom line: the NX 300 posts a strong safety profile, with its side-impact excellence and minimal recall history standing out as genuine positives for safety-conscious buyers.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Lexus NX 300 as a well-finished, composed compact luxury SUV that delivers a calm and comfortable driving experience. They tend to praise its interior material quality and refined cabin atmosphere, though some note that driving dynamics feel more relaxed than sporty. Overall, professional reviewers consider it a polished and competitive entry in the premium compact crossover segment.
- The 2019 NX 300 earned an NHTSA Safety Index of 89 out of 100, placing it in MotorCaliber's Strong band, which is among the better scores in the compact luxury SUV class.
- Side-impact crash protection is a genuine strength, with a perfect 5 out of 5 NHTSA stars in that category for the best covered model year, an important result given how frequently side collisions cause serious injuries.
- Only one recall was issued across the 2019 to 2020 model years, which is a notably low count and suggests a relatively clean production record during this period.
- Owner complaints total 56 across both covered years, including 3 alleged crashes and 4 alleged injuries. These are unverified allegations per NHTSA protocol, but shoppers should review the specific complaint categories on NHTSA.gov before purchasing.
Most-recalled year on record: 2019 Lexus Nx300 with 1 recalls.