Lexus NX review - Reliability & safety

In our experience, the Lexus NX has been a reliable and dependable car, just like the rest of the cars in the Lexus range. We hope the new model will match the high standards set by other Lexus models. The fact that it comes with up to 10 years of warranty cover (dependent on you having the car serviced at a main dealer) shows how confident Lexus is in the quality and execution of its cars; our data suggests that you may never need to use your warranty cover.

Lexus NX reliability

If you prioritise reliability above all else, then Lexus should be a top choice. The brand has topped our Driver Power owner satisfaction survey numerous times in recent years, but after slipping to 10th place in 2021 and out of the top ten entirely in 2022, it rose back to eighth place in 2023’s survey before dropping back to 12th in 2024. Just under 18% of owners reported a fault in the first year, which is a lower figure than any of its main rivals.

Safety

The third-generation 'Lexus Safety System+' suite of safety technology is fitted across all trim levels, which is reassuring. New technology includes Lexus' 'e-latch' door locks, which replace a mechanical door handle with an electronic setup that prevents occupants opening the door into the path of oncoming vehicles.

The adaptive cruise control system has also been improved, so it will no longer allow the vehicle to undertake traffic, and it can even help the driver change lanes. Sensors can also detect crossing traffic at junctions, helping to prevent collisions with unseen vehicles.

The array of new technology fitted to the Lexus NX paid dividends when it was crash tested by Euro NCAP in early 2022. The model scored a full five stars, with 83% for adult protection and 87% for child protection. It was also highly rated elsewhere with an 83% rating for vulnerable road user protection and 91% for safety assist - with the latter being one of the highest scores ever recorded in this category.