We're torn between the EX and the EX-L. The latter has desirable luxury features such as leather upholstery, a programmable power liftgate and a premium audio system. We liked it enough to buy one for our long-term test fleet.
PROS Turbocharged engine delivers a rare combination of thrift and zest Roomy interior with cavernous cargo capacity for this class Rides comfortably yet handles corners athletically Plentiful and thoughtful storage areas
CONS Optional navigation system isn't as reliable as expected Base LX's engine is weaker and thirstier than the turbo Touchscreen can be finicky to use and lacks a separate tuning knob
The 2018 Honda CR-V ranked #1 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Honda CR-V has a score of 8.8 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 30 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Cavernous cargo area High-quality cabin Supple ride Good crash test scores
Cons Few standard features
The 2018 Honda CR-V may be light on personality, but this compact crossover checks off every other box. It’s a very smart choice.
Pros Does nearly everything right Exceptionally roomy interior Good value Lots of safety gear Upscale feel
Cons Odd styling LX lacks important features Hardly fun to drive No high-performance version, if that matters
Limited cargo capacity means the 2016 Lexus NX 200t might not be the best choice for family-oriented shoppers, but its aggressive exterior design and high-tech interior will be draws for everybody else.It's hard to stand out when you're in a field as competitive as the compact luxury SUV group, but that's exactly what the 2016 Lexus NX 200t (like its NX 300h hybrid sibling) manages to do. It starts with the NX's in-your-face styling, of course, which is defined by bold angles and slashes that make most rivals look tame. Love it or hate it, the NX's polarizing appearance at least guarantees that owners won't lose their Lexus in a crowded parking lot. That's not something we've always been able to say for this historically conservative brand's offerings.
Pros Impeccable cabin construction Generous backseat room Copious high-tech features Smooth and quiet engine.
Cons Small cargo capacity Potentially distracting Remote Touch interface.
The 2016 Lexus NX lineup enters its second model year mostly unchanged. This entirely new model brought several firsts to the Lexus lineup with its introduction last year—a first compact crossover entry for the brand, the first model for the brand with a turbocharged engine, and the first utility vehicle to be given a new design language, which has since been followed in the larger 2016 RX lineup.Striking styling and a turbocharged engine are only the opening acts for a remarkably well-rounded family of 2016 Lexus NX compact luxury crossover models. he NX takes on a crowded field that includes the Acura RDX, Audi Q5, BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Cadillac SRX, and Volvo XC60, and it relies on the outstanding reputation of the brand—as well as a far more aggressive design—to stand out. Keep in mind that the drama is mostly in the sheet metal; the profile isn't all the impractical, and the interior is just a slightly more styled version of what's familiar from the brand's other products.
Likes Hybrid and turbo models Edgy, truly standout styling Lexus reputation and resale value Balances practical with sporty
Dislikes Not as smooth/quiet as the RX Remote Touch, and its mouse controller Road noise with sportier tire/wheel combos
After debuting last year, the 2016 Lexus NX subcompact-luxury- crossover SUV continues on with only a smattering of changes. The 2016 NX is based loosely on the Toyota RAV4, but comes with its own engines: a turbocharged 4-cylinder in the NX 200t, or a hybrid drivetrain in the NX. Both 2016 Lexus NX models are sharp-looking, fun-driving and surprisingly roomy luxury SUVs, especially considering the compact exterior dimensions. The interior design, materials and technology punch its weight, lending an air of sophistication beyond its mid-$30,000 price, which is higher than its Audi A3, BMW X1 and Mercedes GLA-Class rivals. Clever touches include a “kick-down” for better throttle response in the 300h hybrid, which uses an electric motor to power the rear wheels in all-wheel-drive models.
Likes The 2016 Lexus NX is a comfortable, high-tech and sophisticated compact-luxury-crossover SUV, combined with the legendary reliability that made Lexus famous, and all wrapped in cutting-edge styling, Sound good? Then check it out.
Dislikes If you're not into the new styling direction that Lexus is taking with its newer cars like the NX, then it's going to be a tough sell. Similarly, if you need to tow or haul, there's not a lot of either capacity in the NX.