“The level of electronics and safety features in this car is great. It's a good size and very maneuverable.”
2018 Lexus NX: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2018 Lexus NX receives a substantial mid-cycle refresh led by updated exterior styling and a standard safety suite across the lineup. Lexus also revised the suspension, improved cabin quietness, upgraded the multimedia system, and changed the turbo model’s name from NX 200t to NX 300.
About the 2018 Lexus NX
1st generation (2015-2021), mid-cycle refresh year
For 2018, Lexus positions the NX as a sharp-looking compact luxury SUV for daily driving, city use, and small-family duty, with more style than a typical small crossover. The core appeal is a premium cabin, quiet ride, easy entry height, and Lexus dependability, with buyers choosing between turbo power, hybrid efficiency, or the sportier F SPORT look and feel. Compared with rivals, Lexus leans harder into comfort, distinctive design, and a more upscale ownership image than outright sportiness.
The NX 300 is the everyday turbo model, while the NX 300 F SPORT adds a more athletic look, supportive sport seats, performance displays, and firmer suspension tuning. The NX 300h pairs a 194-hp hybrid system with standard electronic all-wheel drive, while every version has an 8-inch multimedia display and Lexus Safety System+.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The turbo model changed from NX 200t to NX 300, and the F SPORT version was renamed NX 300 F SPORT. The NX 300 retained a 235-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission.
Styling
Lexus revised the front and rear styling, including the front-end design and taillamps. The F SPORT received its own refreshed front-end treatment.
Safety
Lexus Safety System+ became standard across the NX lineup.
Tech
The standard multimedia screen grew to 8 inches, and Lexus enlarged its touchpad-style controller. Power-folding outside mirrors also became standard.
Structural
Lexus revised the suspension tuning and added sound insulation to make the ride more settled and the cabin quieter.
2018 Lexus NX specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd w/Multi-Mode | Automatic, ECVT | Auto, 6-Spd w/Multi-Mode |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Hybrid | Gas |
| MPG City | 22 mpg | 33 mpg | 22 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28 mpg | 30 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 235 hp | 194 hp | 235 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 152 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2000 lb | 1500 lb | 2000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 54.6 cu-ft | 53.7 cu-ft | 54.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.1 in | 36.1 in | 36.1 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic High Beams | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| 360 Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Memory Driver's Seat | |||
| Power Folding Rear Seat | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2018 Lexus NX?
The biggest change is a mid-cycle refresh that brings revised front and rear styling along with Lexus Safety System+ as standard equipment across the lineup. The update also includes multimedia, suspension, and cabin-quietness improvements.
Did the 2018 Lexus NX 300 replace the 2017 NX 200t?
Yes. The NX 300 replaced the NX 200t for 2018, while the sport-focused version changed from NX 200t F SPORT to NX 300 F SPORT. The NX 300 continued with a 235-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission.
Does every 2018 Lexus NX have Lexus Safety System+?
Yes. Lexus Safety System+ became standard on every 2018 NX model as part of the refresh.
What technology changed in the 2018 Lexus NX?
The standard multimedia display grew to 8 inches, and its touchpad-style controller became larger for easier operation. Power-folding outside mirrors also became standard.
Did Lexus change the ride or cabin comfort for the 2018 NX?
Yes. Lexus revised the suspension tuning and added sound insulation for a more settled ride and a quieter cabin.
2018 Lexus NX Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Lexus NX.
4.2
2018 Lexus NX
(202 reviews)
“It is an amazing car absolutely love it but know that if anything goes wrong with it the parts are very expensive.”
“It seems to be a good value for the money. Initial pickup isn't as quick as I might have expected, but passing acceleration is very good. Features are more than one expects to get for a car in this price range.”
Sources
- pressroom.lexus.com — Lexus / Releases / 2018+Lexus+Nx+300+A+Refresh+Added+Conveniences
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2018 Lexus Nx Refreshed Shanghai Auto Show
- lexus.com — Models / 2018 / 2018 Lexus NX NXh Brochure
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2017 Lexus Nx Nx Hybrid Crossover Clutter
- lexus.com — Models / 2019 / MY19 Lexus NX NXh Brochure