2023 Lexus NX
Independent review & score by Carivo
Independent review & score by Carivo
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
|---|---|
| Body Style | SUV |
| Base Price | $39,939–$52,221 |
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
With an overall Carivo score of 8.1/10, the 2023 Lexus NX earns a Recommended rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 9.0/10, while Performance at 6.9/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate the Lexus NX's reliability at 9.0/10 — among the strongest in our suv database, reflecting the nameplate's track record and recall history. Safety is a strength too — 9.0/10 by our scoring. As with any car, verify the official ratings for your specific trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Performance at 6.9/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology scores 8.7/10 — one of the stronger tech packages in the segment. Expect a responsive infotainment system, broad smartphone integration, and a solid suite of driver-assistance features.
Priced from $39,939–$52,221, 27 MPG, seating 5, the Lexus NX sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. The 9.0/10 value score is the headline: relative to what it costs, this suv delivers more than most of the class. At 3 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Bottom line: Think of the 2023 Lexus NX as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Its softer scores in performance are the only real asterisks. Shoppers who value predictability over headlines will be well served.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
The 2023 Lexus NX ranks #84 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 97% of the segment. Its 8.1/10 overall score is 0.7 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $39,939 starting price is about 11% above the segment's median of $36,079.
Rankings are recalculated as new vehicles and scores are added. See the full SUV ranking →
Smart-money pick: the 2020 Lexus NX scores 7.9/10 — within striking distance of the 2023's 8.1 — and starts roughly $3,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
| Year | Score | Starting price (MSRP when new) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 8.2/10 | $42,410 | Read review → |
| 2025 | 8.2/10 | $42,410 | Read review → |
| 2024 | 8.2/10 | $41,175 | Read review → |
| 2023 (this review) | 8.1/10 | $39,939 | |
| 2022 | 8.0/10 | $38,704 | Read review → |
| 2021 | 8.0/10 | $37,469 | Read review → |
| 2020 | 7.9/10 | $36,234 | Read review → |
| 2019 | 8.0/10 | $34,998 | Read review → |
| 2018 | 7.9/10 | $33,763 | Read review → |
| 2017 | 7.8/10 | $32,528 | Read review → |
| 2016 | 7.6/10 | $31,293 | Read review → |
| 2015 | 7.7/10 | $30,057 | Read review → |
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
| Steering / Column 29/01/2025 · 25V040000 | Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Cross, Corolla Cross Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Tacoma, Lexus RX350, 2023-2024 NX250, and NX350 vehicles that may have been incorrectly repaired… |
|---|---|
| Back over prevention / Display function 30/10/2025 · 25V744000 | Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru Solterra vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error… |
| Back over prevention / Software 18/03/2026 · 26V162000 | Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2025 Lexus NX350, NX250, 2023-2026 RX350, and 2024-2026 TX350 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles… |
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Explore the full lineup of Lexus models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.