Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2017 Lexus NX F Sport, a compact luxury SUV that really tries to blend sporty aesthetics with everyday practicality. If you're in the market for something that looks a bit more aggressive than your average crossover but still offers that premium Lexus feel, the NX F Sport might just be your jam. We're going to break down what makes this car tick, from its unique styling to how it actually drives, and whether it's worth your hard-earned cash. So, grab a coffee, and let's get into it!

First Impressions: Aggressive Looks That Turn Heads

When the Lexus NX F Sport first rolls into view, it’s hard to ignore its bold design. Lexus has never been shy about making a statement, and the NX F Sport is a prime example. The signature spindle grille is front and center, larger and more pronounced than ever, giving the front fascia a really distinctive, almost predatory look. Flanking this are sharp, angular LED headlights and daytime running lights that add to its aggressive stance. The F Sport package takes this a step further with unique front and rear bumper designs, a sportier mesh grille insert, and specific F Sport badging. Around the side, you’ll notice sculpted lines and aerodynamic enhancements, all contributing to a more dynamic profile. The rear end echoes the front's angularity, with sharp taillights and an integrated bumper that makes the NX look planted on the road. The F Sport also typically comes with larger alloy wheels, usually in a dark or machined finish, which really fill out the wheel wells and enhance the sporty vibe. Honestly, this isn't your grandma's sensible SUV; it’s designed to make a visual impact, and it succeeds. The attention to detail is classic Lexus, even with such a daring design. Every crease, every line seems to be deliberately placed to create a sense of motion and performance. The paint quality is superb, as you’d expect, and the overall build quality feels solid, a testament to Lexus's manufacturing prowess. For those who want their SUV to stand out from the sea of sameness, the NX F Sport definitely delivers on the visual front. It’s a car that looks like it’s ready to pounce, even when it’s just parked.

Interior Comfort and Tech: A Premium, Sporty Cabin

Step inside the Lexus NX F Sport, and the premium experience continues. The cabin is a masterclass in blending luxury with sporty touches. The first thing you’ll likely notice are the F Sport seats. These are not your average seats, guys. They’re deeply bolstered, designed to hold you firmly in place during spirited driving, yet they remain surprisingly comfortable for longer journeys. Upholstered in perforated leather with contrasting stitching, they look and feel fantastic. The F Sport steering wheel is also a highlight – it’s smaller in diameter, thicker and wrapped in perforated leather, giving you a great tactile connection to the car. It often features paddle shifters for manual gear selection, adding to the sporty feel. The dashboard layout is driver-focused, with a clean and modern design. Lexus uses high-quality materials throughout – soft-touch plastics, elegant metallic accents, and tasteful wood or carbon-fiber trim options depending on the specific configuration. The infotainment system, controlled via the Remote Touch interface (that’s the trackpad-like controller down on the center console), might take some getting used to, but it’s generally intuitive once you’ve mastered it. It features a decent-sized display, navigation, a premium sound system, and smartphone integration capabilities. The F Sport also adds unique instrumentation, often with a sliding center meter that can display performance information like G-forces or turbo boost. It really amps up the sporty ambiance. While the rear seat space is adequate for the class, it’s not cavernous, and the cargo area is also on the smaller side compared to some rivals. However, for a compact luxury SUV, the NX F Sport prioritizes front occupants and the overall premium feel. The attention to detail is meticulous, from the stitching on the seats to the soft glow of the ambient lighting. It feels like a special place to be, whether you’re commuting or heading out on a weekend adventure.

Performance and Handling: More Than Just a Pretty Face?

Now, let's talk about how the 2017 Lexus NX F Sport actually drives. Under the hood, the NX 200t (the model usually designated with F Sport) is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This powerplant puts out a respectable 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission, it provides enough grunt for most everyday driving scenarios. Acceleration is brisk enough to merge onto highways with confidence, and the turbocharger provides a nice surge of power when you need it. The F Sport treatment isn't just cosmetic; it includes sport-tuned suspension and often adaptive dampers. This translates to a firmer ride compared to the standard NX, which sharpens up the handling. Body roll is well-controlled in corners, allowing you to push the car a bit harder without feeling like you’re going to tip over. The steering is precise and offers decent feedback, making the NX F Sport feel more engaging than you might expect from a Lexus SUV. The F Sport also typically comes with an Active Sound Control system that enhances engine noise inside the cabin, adding to the sporty auditory experience – whether you love it or hate it, it’s there! For those who want a bit more confidence in slippery conditions, an all-wheel-drive system was available. While it's not a hardcore sports car, the NX F Sport strikes a good balance between a comfortable luxury ride and a more dynamic, engaging driving experience. It handles daily commutes with ease but can also deliver a bit of fun on a twisty road. It’s a competent all-rounder that doesn’t completely sacrifice comfort for its sportier demeanor. The power delivery is smooth, and the transmission does a good job of keeping the engine in its sweet spot. It’s a refined powertrain that delivers performance without being overly loud or intrusive, except when the Active Sound Control is doing its thing!

Practicality and Features: What You Get for Your Money

When you’re looking at a luxury vehicle like the Lexus NX F Sport, you want to know it’s not just about looks and performance; it’s also about the features and how practical it is for your daily life. The 2017 NX F Sport comes loaded with technology and convenience features that are expected in this segment. Standard equipment often includes things like LED headlights, a rearview camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, and push-button start. The F Sport package usually bundles in those aforementioned sport seats, unique exterior and interior styling elements, and the enhanced suspension. Optional features can include a premium Mark Levinson audio system, a navigation system, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and a sunroof. The safety suite is generally robust, reflecting Lexus’s commitment to passenger protection. In terms of practicality, the NX is a compact SUV, so its dimensions are geared towards urban maneuverability. It’s easier to park and navigate tight city streets than larger SUVs. However, this compact size does mean that cargo space is somewhat limited. The rear cargo area offers a decent amount of room for groceries or a couple of carry-on suitcases, but it won’t compete with larger mid-size SUVs. The rear seats fold down, which helps with carrying larger items, but the load floor might not be perfectly flat. Passenger space in the rear is also adequate, but taller adults might find legroom a bit tight on longer journeys. For families with younger children or for couples, the space is usually sufficient. The fuel economy is competitive for the luxury compact SUV class, though not class-leading. The 2.0L turbo engine delivers a reasonable balance between performance and efficiency. Overall, the NX F Sport offers a strong package of premium features, advanced technology, and a good dose of sportiness, all wrapped in a distinctive design. It might compromise slightly on outright cargo and passenger volume compared to some rivals, but it excels in delivering a refined and engaging luxury experience.

The Verdict: Is the 2017 NX F Sport for You?

So, guys, after spending time with the 2017 Lexus NX F Sport, what’s the final word? This is a compact luxury SUV that punches above its weight in terms of style and driving engagement, especially for a Lexus. If you prioritize head-turning design, a premium and sporty interior, and a driving experience that’s more engaging than your typical crossover, the NX F Sport is definitely worth a serious look. It’s got the power and handling to make your daily commute more enjoyable and offers all the luxury and refinement you’d expect from the Lexus brand. The F Sport package genuinely adds a layer of sportiness that elevates the NX beyond its more comfort-oriented siblings. However, it’s important to be realistic about its size. If you regularly need to haul large families or a ton of gear, you might find the cargo space and rear-seat room a bit restrictive. Competitors in this segment might offer more practicality in those areas. Also, the infotainment system’s Remote Touch interface isn't for everyone; some might find it a bit distracting. But, if you’re looking for a stylish, comfortable, and surprisingly fun-to-drive luxury SUV that stands out from the crowd, the 2017 Lexus NX F Sport is a compelling option. It offers a great blend of performance, luxury, and distinctive design that makes it a strong contender in its class. It’s a vehicle that doesn’t just get you from point A to point B; it makes the journey more interesting. It proves that practicality doesn’t always have to mean boring.