Compact luxury SUVs have begun dominating the market, and several brands have introduced their own in recent years to compete for a share of sales. Choosing an SUV can be excruciating because there are many comfortable and reliable options for individuals and families alike. The 2021 Lexus NX is a popular choice, and many believe it’s a clear winner in this category. But one review site isn’t quite convinced. 

Let’s look at 2021’s top compact luxury SUVs according to MotorTrend and why the Lexus NX ranks fifth. 

The Lexus NX squeaks into the top 5

MotorTrend recently released a list of the best compact luxury SUVs for 2021. The luxury compact SUVs on this list aren’t surprising, but the order in which they rank is a bit shocking. For example, the 2021 Audi Q5 has earned consistently positive reviews from critics and owners alike, yet it sits in the seventh spot on MT’s list.

Also eyebrow-raising is that the Lincoln Corsair ranks high at number two, beating the likes of the BMW X3. Other review sites say the Lincoln Corsair is OK but doesn’t offer the wow factor you might expect for its $37,100-$48,745 price range. And coming in at number one is the Volvo XC60. 

In the end, the order that MotorTrend ranks these vehicles doesn’t matter all that much. Most critics agree which luxury compact SUVs belong on a list of top options and which ones don’t. 

One compact luxury SUV that consistently makes the cut, and comes in fifth place on MT’s, is the Lexus NX. 

Pros of the 2021 Lexus NX

MotorTrend praises the 2021 Lexus NX for its peaceful interior and comfortable seating throughout. It also notes the NX provides a great value overall. U.S. News agrees, listing the predicted reliability rating at 5 out of 5. It also likes the NX’s long list of standard safety features and awards it a perfect 10 for safety. 

Plus, the interior styling is classic and gorgeous. And Lexus provides ample opportunity for customization if you don’t mind shelling out a few thousand more. 

Overall, the 2021 Lexus NX is a strong contender in the luxury compact SUV segment. However, it comes with some drawbacks that hurt its chances of ranking higher on many lists. 

Cons of the 2021 NX

One of the main complaints MotorTrend mentions is that the 2021 Lexus NX is boring to drive. It doesn’t boast the most exciting engine, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. It can produce up to 235 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, which isn’t all that impressive for this class. MotorTrend also knocks the 2021 Lexus NX for its odd ergonomics. And U.S. News isn’t a fan of the distracting, unintuitive infotainment system. 

Overall, the 2021 Lexus NX might be an excellent choice for people looking to purchase a safe and reliable luxury compact SUV. But it isn’t a great option for drivers who enjoy punchier engines and faster acceleration.