2018 Lexus NX 300 F Sport: Specs, Features & More

by Alex Braham 50 views

Hey guys! Are you curious about the 2018 Lexus NX 300 F Sport? Well, you've come to the right place! This article dives deep into the specs, features, and everything else you need to know about this stylish and sporty SUV. Buckle up, and let's get started!

Overview of the 2018 Lexus NX 300 F Sport

The 2018 Lexus NX 300 F Sport isn't just your average SUV; it's a statement. It combines the practicality of a compact SUV with the luxurious touches and sporty performance that Lexus is known for. Think of it as the cool kid in the SUV class, offering a blend of comfort, style, and a bit of fun behind the wheel. This model year brought some enhancements over previous versions, making it an appealing choice for those wanting a relatively recent but not brand-new vehicle.

The NX series itself has always been about injecting some excitement into the luxury crossover segment. The F Sport trim takes that a step further with unique styling cues, sport-tuned suspension, and enhanced features that set it apart from the standard NX 300. If you're after a vehicle that looks as good as it drives, the 2018 NX 300 F Sport is definitely worth a look. It’s designed to catch eyes and provide a more engaging driving experience, all while wrapping you in the comfort and technology you'd expect from a Lexus.

Compared to its competitors, such as the Acura RDX or the BMW X3, the NX 300 F Sport offers a distinctive blend of Japanese reliability and luxury. While it might not be the most powerful or the roomiest in its class, it holds its own with a unique design language and a reputation for dependability. The F Sport variant specifically aims to deliver a sportier feel without sacrificing the smooth ride quality that Lexus is known for. This makes it a compelling option for those who want a touch of sportiness in their daily drive, without the harshness sometimes associated with performance-oriented SUVs. Plus, the Lexus badge carries weight when it comes to resale value and overall ownership experience, adding to the appeal of the 2018 NX 300 F Sport.

Key Specs of the 2018 Lexus NX 300 F Sport

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty! Here are the key specs that make the 2018 Lexus NX 300 F Sport tick:

  • Engine: 2.0-liter Turbocharged Inline-4
  • Horsepower: 235 hp
  • Torque: 258 lb-ft
  • Transmission: 6-speed Automatic
  • Drivetrain: Available in Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
  • Fuel Economy (FWD): 22 MPG City / 28 MPG Highway / 24 MPG Combined
  • Fuel Economy (AWD): 22 MPG City / 28 MPG Highway / 24 MPG Combined
  • 0-60 MPH: Approximately 7.2 seconds

These numbers give you a good sense of what the NX 300 F Sport brings to the table. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine provides ample power for daily driving and merging onto highways. While it's not a sports car, the F Sport enhancements give it a more responsive feel compared to the base NX 300. The 6-speed automatic transmission is smooth and reliable, ensuring a comfortable ride. Fuel economy is respectable for a small SUV, making it a practical choice for those who commute or take frequent road trips.

The availability of both FWD and AWD options allows you to choose the drivetrain that best suits your needs and driving conditions. If you live in an area with frequent snow or rain, the AWD version provides added traction and stability. For those in milder climates, the FWD model offers slightly better fuel economy. Overall, the performance specs of the 2018 NX 300 F Sport strike a good balance between power, efficiency, and driving enjoyment, making it a well-rounded choice in the compact SUV segment. The engine is peppy enough to make driving fun, and the F Sport tweaks enhance the overall experience without sacrificing the comfort and refinement that Lexus is known for.

Interior and Exterior Features

Moving on to the aesthetics and comfort, the 2018 Lexus NX 300 F Sport truly shines. Lexus has always been known for its attention to detail, and the NX 300 F Sport is no exception. Let's break down the interior and exterior features that make this SUV stand out:

Interior Features:

  • Sport Seats: Enhanced bolstering for better support during spirited driving.
  • Aluminum Pedals and Scuff Plates: Adds a sporty touch to the interior.
  • Black Headliner: Creates a more intimate and focused cabin environment.
  • Perforated Leather Steering Wheel and Shift Knob: Provides a premium feel and improved grip.
  • 8-inch Display Screen: Houses the infotainment system, which includes navigation, audio controls, and vehicle settings.
  • Lexus Enform Services: Subscription-based services that offer features like remote start, vehicle health reports, and emergency assistance.
  • Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control: Keeps the cabin comfortable for both driver and passenger.
  • Power-Adjustable Front Seats: Allows you to find the perfect driving position.
  • Available Panoramic Sunroof: Opens up the cabin and provides a more airy feel.

Exterior Features:

  • Unique F Sport Mesh Grille: A more aggressive and distinctive front-end design.
  • Rear Spoiler: Adds a sporty touch to the rear of the vehicle.
  • 18-inch Alloy Wheels: Unique F Sport wheel design that enhances the vehicle's stance.
  • LED Headlights and Taillights: Provides excellent visibility and a modern look.
  • Power-Folding and Heated Side Mirrors: Adds convenience and safety in inclement weather.
  • Rain-Sensing Wipers: Automatically adjusts wiper speed based on rainfall.
  • Available Power Rear Door with Kick Sensor: Allows for hands-free opening of the rear cargo area.

The interior of the NX 300 F Sport is designed to provide a comfortable and engaging driving experience. The sport seats are a standout feature, offering excellent support during cornering. The aluminum pedals and black headliner add to the sporty ambiance, while the perforated leather steering wheel and shift knob provide a premium feel. The 8-inch display screen is easy to use, and the Lexus Enform services offer a range of convenient features. On the outside, the F Sport's unique mesh grille and rear spoiler give it a more aggressive and sporty look. The 18-inch alloy wheels complement the overall design, and the LED lighting provides excellent visibility. These features combine to make the 2018 Lexus NX 300 F Sport a stylish and well-equipped SUV that stands out from the crowd.

Technology and Safety Features

When it comes to technology and safety, the 2018 Lexus NX 300 F Sport doesn't skimp. Lexus has packed this SUV with a range of features designed to keep you connected, entertained, and, most importantly, safe on the road. Here’s a rundown:

Technology Features:

  • Lexus Enform App Suite: Integrates popular apps like Pandora, Yelp, and iHeartRadio into the infotainment system.
  • Bluetooth Connectivity: Allows you to connect your smartphone for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
  • USB Ports: Provides convenient charging and connectivity for your devices.
  • Available Navigation System: Offers turn-by-turn directions and real-time traffic information.
  • Mark Levinson Premium Audio System (Optional): Delivers exceptional sound quality for audiophiles.
  • Remote Touch Interface: A touchpad interface for controlling the infotainment system.

Safety Features:

  • Lexus Safety System+: A suite of advanced safety features that includes:
    • Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: Helps to mitigate or avoid collisions with vehicles or pedestrians.
    • Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: Warns you if you start to drift out of your lane and provides gentle steering correction.
    • Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead of you.
    • Automatic High Beams: Automatically switches between high and low beams based on traffic conditions.
  • Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots and when backing out of parking spaces.
  • Rearview Camera: Provides a clear view of what's behind you when backing up.
  • Anti-lock Brakes (ABS): Helps to prevent wheel lockup during hard braking.
  • Stability Control: Helps to maintain vehicle stability during cornering.
  • Airbags: A comprehensive airbag system that includes front, side, and curtain airbags.

The Lexus Safety System+ is a standout feature, providing a range of advanced safety technologies that can help to prevent accidents. The Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert, and Adaptive Cruise Control work together to create a safer driving environment. The Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert are also valuable features that can help you avoid collisions. In terms of technology, the Lexus Enform App Suite provides access to a variety of popular apps, while the optional Mark Levinson audio system delivers exceptional sound quality. The Remote Touch Interface can take some getting used to, but it provides a convenient way to control the infotainment system. Overall, the 2018 Lexus NX 300 F Sport is well-equipped with technology and safety features that enhance the driving experience and provide peace of mind.

Driving Experience

Okay, so what's it really like to drive the 2018 Lexus NX 300 F Sport? Well, it’s a pretty sweet experience! The F Sport trim adds a dash of sportiness to the NX 300's already comfortable and refined ride. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Sport-Tuned Suspension: The F Sport gets a unique suspension setup that's firmer than the standard NX 300. This translates to reduced body roll in corners and a more planted feel on the road. It's not a night-and-day difference, but you'll definitely notice the improved handling.
  • Responsive Steering: The steering is nicely weighted and provides decent feedback. It's not the most communicative system out there, but it's precise and makes the NX 300 F Sport feel nimble and easy to maneuver.
  • Adequate Power: The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine provides adequate power for most driving situations. It's not going to blow your socks off, but it has enough pep to make merging onto the highway and passing other cars a breeze. The engine is also relatively smooth and quiet, which is what you'd expect from a Lexus.
  • Smooth Transmission: The 6-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and predictably. It's not the quickest-shifting transmission on the market, but it's well-matched to the engine and provides a comfortable driving experience. Paddle shifters are also included, allowing you to take control of gear changes when you're feeling sporty.
  • Comfortable Ride: Despite the sport-tuned suspension, the NX 300 F Sport still provides a comfortable ride. It absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road well, without feeling overly harsh. This makes it a great choice for daily commuting and long road trips.
  • Refined Cabin: The cabin is well-insulated from noise, and the materials are high-quality. The sport seats are comfortable and supportive, and the overall design is modern and stylish. This creates a pleasant and relaxing driving environment.

Overall, the driving experience in the 2018 Lexus NX 300 F Sport is enjoyable and engaging. It strikes a good balance between sportiness and comfort, making it a great choice for those who want a versatile and fun-to-drive SUV. The F Sport enhancements add a bit of excitement to the mix, without sacrificing the smooth ride quality and refinement that Lexus is known for. Whether you're commuting to work or hitting the open road, the NX 300 F Sport is sure to impress.

Is the 2018 Lexus NX 300 F Sport a Good Choice?

So, after all that, is the 2018 Lexus NX 300 F Sport a good choice for you? Here's a quick rundown to help you decide:

Reasons to Buy:

  • Stylish Design: The NX 300 F Sport has a distinctive and eye-catching design that stands out from the crowd.
  • Sporty Handling: The F Sport enhancements provide a more engaging and fun driving experience.
  • Comfortable Ride: Despite the sporty suspension, the NX 300 F Sport still offers a comfortable and refined ride.
  • Well-Equipped: The NX 300 F Sport comes with a range of standard features, including advanced safety technologies.
  • Reliable: Lexus has a reputation for building reliable vehicles, so you can expect the NX 300 F Sport to last for years to come.

Potential Drawbacks:

  • Infotainment System: The Remote Touch Interface can be a bit clunky and takes some getting used to.
  • Cargo Space: The NX 300 F Sport has less cargo space than some of its competitors.
  • Engine Power: While adequate, the engine power may not be enough for those who want a truly sporty SUV.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the 2018 Lexus NX 300 F Sport depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a stylish, sporty, and well-equipped SUV that's also reliable, the NX 300 F Sport is definitely worth considering. However, if you need a lot of cargo space or want a more powerful engine, you may want to look at other options.

In conclusion, the 2018 Lexus NX 300 F Sport is a solid choice in the compact SUV segment. It offers a good balance of style, performance, comfort, and features, making it a versatile and enjoyable vehicle to own. Just be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making your final decision. Happy driving!