Its vivid exterior appearance is definitely notable, but so is the 2017 Lexus NX’s smooth ride. Passengers will appreciate not having to resort to yoga-like moves to enter and exit this crossover utility vehicle. During a week-long test drive, front seat passengers (short and tall) liked that the seatbelt didn’t uncomfortably drape across the neck. Occupants also liked the extreme roominess of the NX, which is sold in two trims (200t and 200t F Sport) as well as a hybrid model. The NX debuted in 2015 and has had minor changes since its introduction. A new for 2017 change is Scout GPS Link app as standard fare with the vehicle’s Display Audio system.

Powering the NX 200t is a 2.0-liter twin-scroll turbocharged 4-cylinder that produces 235 horsepower between 4800-5600 rpm and 258 pounds-feet of torque between 1650-4000 rpm. The engine mates with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Cargo space for the NX 200t is 17.7 cubic feet with rear seats upright and 54.6 cubic feet with rear seats folded down. Lexus NX 200t is available with All Weather Drive, a system that can provide up to 50 percent of the available torque to the rear wheels for additional traction. The test driven 104-7-inch wheelbase Lexus NX 200t collects estimated mpg of 22 city/28 highway and carries a MSRP of $36,485.