“It is a very versatile vehicle when compared to others in its range and you will not be disappointed, especially with the visibility and seat adjustability features if you are someone who is a little smaller in height than the regular average person. Though they could be still better, they are presently the best when compared to what is available.”
2021 Lexus NX: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2021 Lexus NX is that blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert becomes standard across the lineup. This is otherwise a light update, highlighted by upgraded mirrors and a new NX 300h F SPORT Black Line special edition.
About the 2021 Lexus NX
1st generation NX (2015-2021), refreshed for 2018; 2021 is the final model year before the all-new 2022 redesign.
Lexus positions the NX as a compact luxury SUV for a busy daily life: a raised seating position, bold styling, practical cargo flexibility, and strong standard safety tech. The gas NX 300 leans on turbo response, while the NX 300h adds quieter hybrid efficiency and standard AWD. More than many lower-slung rivals, the NX is sold as a true small SUV with Lexus comfort, a calm ride, and an easy-to-use luxury feel rather than an all-out performance crossover.
The 2021 NX ranges from the straightforward 235-hp turbocharged NX 300 to the comfort-focused Luxury trims, which have leather upholstery and a 10.3-inch navigation display. The 194-hp NX 300h pairs hybrid power with standard AWD, while the new F SPORT Black Line version adds a sport-tuned suspension, distinctive exterior trim and blue interior stitching.
What changed, by category
Safety
Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert becomes standard across the NX 300 and NX 300h lineup.
Styling
A new NX 300h F SPORT Black Line special edition adds a unique grille, color-matched overfenders, darker exterior details and blue interior stitching. Lexus also updates the lineup with lower-profile wiper blades.
Tech
Power-folding, auto-dimming outside mirrors with a reverse-tilt function become standard. Heated and ventilated front seats become standard on the NX 300 F SPORT, while the 10.3-inch navigation display becomes standard on the NX 300 Luxury and NX 300h Luxury. Satellite radio changes from standard to optional on the NX 300, NX 300 F SPORT and NX 300h.
2021 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 | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Sequential Shift | Automatic, ECVT | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Sequential Shift | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Sequential Shift | Automatic, ECVT | Automatic, ECVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD | FWD | FWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Hybrid | Gas | Gas | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| MPG City | 22 mpg | 33 mpg | 22 mpg | 22 mpg | 33 mpg | 33 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28 mpg | 30 mpg | 28 mpg | 28 mpg | 30 mpg | 30 mpg |
| Horsepower | 235 hp | 194 hp | 235 hp | 235 hp | 194 hp | 194 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft | |||
| Max Towing | 2000 lb | 1500 lb | 2000 lb | 2000 lb | 1500 lb | 1500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 54.6 cu-ft | 53.7 cu-ft | 54.6 cu-ft | 54.6 cu-ft | 53.7 cu-ft | 53.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.1 in | 36.1 in | 36.1 in | 36.1 in | 36.1 in | 36.1 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Headlights | ||||||
| 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 | ||||||
| Roof Rails | ||||||
| Navigation System | ||||||
| Premium Audio | ||||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||||
| Leather Seats | ||||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||||
| Memory Steering Wheel | ||||||
| Power Folding Rear Seat | ||||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2021 Lexus NX?
The biggest change is standard blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert across the lineup. Power-folding, auto-dimming mirrors with a reverse-tilt function and revised low-profile wipers are also standard for 2021.
Is the 2021 Lexus NX a redesign?
No. The 2021 NX is a light equipment update within the first generation, not a redesign. Its platform, engines and basic cabin layout largely carry over.
What is the 2021 NX 300h F SPORT Black Line?
The NX 300h F SPORT Black Line is a new hybrid special edition with standard AWD. It combines the 194-hp hybrid system with a sport-tuned suspension, unique exterior trim, color-matched overfenders, sport seats and blue interior stitching.
Did the 2021 Lexus NX engines change?
No. The gas NX 300 retains its 235-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the NX 300h retains its 194-hp 2.5-liter hybrid system. The year's changes focus on safety, convenience equipment and trim packaging.
Is the 2021 Lexus NX the final year of its generation?
Yes. The 2021 NX is the final model year of the first-generation version. Lexus introduced an all-new second-generation NX for 2022.
2021 Lexus NX Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 Lexus NX.
4.2
2021 Lexus NX
(213 reviews)
“I love my Lexus NX Hybrid. It gets good gas mileage, is stylish, and very comfortable. It's all I wanted in a car.”
“The vehicle's design and body construction are contemporary and very attractive.”
Sources
- pressroom.lexus.com — Whats New 2021 Lexus Nx 300 Nx 300H
- lexus.com — Models / 2021 / MY21 Lexus NX NXh Brochure
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2021 Nx Hybrid F Sport Gets A Touch Of Style With Black Line Flare
- pressroom.lexus.com — The All New 2022 Lexus Nx Designed Engineered With The Future Of Luxury In Mind
- pressroom.lexus.com — Lexus / Releases / 2018+Lexus+Nx+300+A+Refresh+Added+Conveniences
- pressroom.lexus.com — Whats New 2020 Lexus Nx 300