The 2025 Lexus NX 350 F Sport represents a significant step forward for the luxury compact SUV segment. While its refined interior and advanced technology are undoubtedly highlights, this review focuses specifically on the handling characteristics of the F Sport variant, exploring how Lexus has balanced performance and the brand's signature comfort.
A Refined Driving Experience: Beyond the Usual Luxury SUV
Lexus has consistently aimed to elevate the driving experience beyond the typical soft and floaty feel often associated with luxury SUVs. The NX 350 F Sport, with its F Sport-tuned suspension and more aggressive styling, takes this ambition to a new level. While not a sports car by any stretch, it offers a surprisingly engaging and controlled driving experience.
Suspension and Steering: The Foundation of F Sport Handling
The key to the NX 350 F Sport's improved handling lies in its meticulously tuned suspension. Compared to the standard NX 350, the F Sport model benefits from firmer damping and revised spring rates. This results in less body roll in corners and a more planted feel at higher speeds. The steering, too, feels more direct and responsive, providing better feedback to the driver and enhancing the overall connection to the road. This isn't harsh responsiveness; it's a well-calibrated firmness that instills confidence without sacrificing comfort.
Powertrain Performance and its Impact on Handling
The 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and even spirited acceleration. While not overwhelmingly powerful, the engine's responsiveness contributes positively to the overall handling experience. The seamless integration of the eight-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth power delivery, further enhancing the car's agility. The powertrain doesn't overwhelm the chassis, maintaining a balanced and controlled feel, even under harder acceleration.
Beyond the Specs: Real-World Driving Impressions
Driving the 2025 Lexus NX 350 F Sport isn't about raw speed or aggressive cornering. Instead, it's about a refined and controlled driving experience that prioritizes both comfort and performance. The car feels composed and predictable, inspiring confidence on winding roads and highways alike. The suspension effectively absorbs bumps and imperfections without compromising the car's responsiveness.
Comparison to Competitors: Finding its Niche
Compared to competitors like the BMW X3 M40i or the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300, the NX 350 F Sport offers a different flavor of performance. While the German competitors may boast slightly sharper handling and more aggressive powertrains, the Lexus prioritizes a more refined and comfortable experience. This makes it a compelling option for drivers who value a balance between sporty handling and everyday drivability.
Conclusion: A Success in Balancing Luxury and Performance
The 2025 Lexus NX 350 F Sport successfully blends the brand's renowned luxury and comfort with a surprisingly engaging driving experience. Its improved handling, thanks to the F Sport-tuned suspension and precise steering, elevates the car beyond a typical luxury crossover. While not a performance SUV in the strictest sense, it offers a compelling balance of comfort, refinement, and dynamic capability that will appeal to a wide range of drivers. For those seeking a luxury SUV that doesn't compromise on driving enjoyment, the NX 350 F Sport deserves serious consideration.
