When it comes to sporty SUVs, the 2023 Lexus NX 350 might not be the first name that comes to mind. However, don’t underestimate this vehicle’s ability to add some excitement to your daily drives. If you’re looking for an extra dose of adrenaline, consider upgrading to the F Sport Handling model, which brings racing-inspired upgrades to the table. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at our week-long experience with the 2023 Lexus NX 350 F Sport and explore everything it has to offer.
Pricing and Upgrades
Let’s begin by addressing the most crucial question for potential buyers: how much does the 2023 Lexus NX 350 F Sport cost? The base model starts at a reasonable $42,365, but if you’re craving more performance and sportiness, you can opt for the F Sport Handling model, which comes with an MSRP of $47,465. This upgrade will set you back roughly $5,100, and it’s important to note that this cost doesn’t include additional expenses like the $1,150 destination fee and potential dealership markups.
Under the Hood
The suspension system in the F Sport includes variable damping, stiffer springs, upgraded shock absorbers, and anti-roll bars. These enhancements result in improved ride quality, ensuring that you enjoy a comfortable and controlled driving experience even on challenging roads. Moreover, the F Sport’s styling elements, such as gloss black trim pieces and a black-out interior, complemented by vibrant red leather upholstery, create a visually striking interior.
Interior Comfort and Features
Step inside the 2023 Lexus NX 350 F Sport, and you’ll find a well-designed interior with numerous comfort and convenience features. Brushed aluminum trim pieces with metal pedals and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters add a touch of sportiness to the cabin. The bucket seats offer extra bolstering to keep you firmly in place during spirited driving, and the power sport steering wheel provides ample adjustment controls for your comfort.
The F Sport also includes additional gauges like G Force and piston position, allowing you to monitor your driving performance. The 10.0-inch head-up display further enhances safety by keeping crucial information within your line of sight while on the road.
On the Road
Now, let’s delve into the driving experience of the Lexus NX 350 F Sport. This sporty SUV impresses with its agility and responsiveness. In Normal mode, it offers a relaxed driving experience, perfect for daily commuting. However, switching to Sport S or Sport S+ mode transforms the vehicle, delivering faster response times and dynamic reactions to road conditions.
You’ll notice that the brakes become more responsive, and the suspension firms up, virtually eliminating body roll around sharp corners. The NX 350 F Sport handles corners with confidence, providing ample traction and stability for precise maneuvers. The eight-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth shifts, but if you crave more control, the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters are at your fingertips.
One notable performance feature of the Lexus NX 350 F Sport is its acceleration. It can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just about 6.6 seconds, making it one of the quickest SUVs in its class. This acceleration prowess sets it apart, outpacing its sibling, the NX 350h, by almost a whole second.
Comfort and Ride Quality
Beyond its sporty capabilities, the 2023 Lexus NX 350 F Sport impresses with its comfort and ride quality. The tires provide exceptional grip, allowing you to feel the road while effectively absorbing rough impacts. This combination of luxury and sportiness creates a unique driving experience.
However, it’s worth noting that the interior can be louder than expected at highway speeds. But fear not, as the available 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system is more than capable of drowning out any unwanted noise, ensuring a peaceful cabin environment.
Sometimes, sporty treatments can lead to stiff and uncomfortable seats, but the F Sport bucks that trend. The sport bolstering enhances comfort and support, making long journeys a pleasure. The seats themselves are well-padded, ensuring hours of fatigue-free driving. The automatic climate control system rarely requires adjustments, and the ventilated seats provide a strong airflow, although they could be cooler for particularly hot days.
Conclusion: Is It Worth the Upgrade?
In conclusion, the 2023 Lexus NX 350 F Sport Handling is a worthy upgrade if you’re seeking to infuse your daily drives or road trips with more excitement and comfort. Its sporty enhancements, combined with the standard features of the NX 350, create a compelling package. However, it’s essential to consider your budget and whether the additional cost aligns with your driving preferences.
For those who prioritize performance and a spirited driving experience, the F Sport is a strong contender in the SUV segment. On the other hand, the lower trim levels of the NX 350 still offer a compelling set of standard features, making them excellent options for budget-conscious buyers. Whether you opt for the base model or the F Sport, the 2023 Lexus NX 350 promises a blend of luxury and sportiness that will elevate your daily commute or long-distance travels.
