Thinking about all of the luxury SUV options on the market today can get a bit overwhelming. There are seemingly more SUVS than ever before, and, now, with many of them having much of the same features as the rest, how are you to know which one is right for you?

Thankfully, the internet exists. Websites often compile lists of the best and worst vehicle categories’ options to assist you in finding your next ride. And while it’s excellent to search for the best option, it’s essential to look at the lower-ranking ones, too. Take the 2020 Lexus NX Hybrid, for example. On paper, the NX Hybrid appears great and was recently included in a list of Best Luxury SUVs Under $40,000, but it’s important to note that it came in at the last place on that list. Let’s dive in and find out why. 

The 2020 Lexus NX Hybrid is included in the Best Luxury SUVs Under $40,000

U.S. News recently released a list of their picks for the Best Luxury SUVs Under $40,000. Coming in at number 13 out of 13 with a score of 7.3/10. Part of what makes it land on the list at all is the fact that it is a hybrid. Powered by a four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, you’ll be able to save plenty of cash at the gas pump, making its “under $40,000” price tag even better. 

While it’s good enough to appear on this list, U.S. News states that some things clarify why it came in the last place. The reviewers were disappointed by the NX Hybrid’s acceleration and handling. Acceleration is a common complaint with hybrid cars, but handling is something an SUV shouldn’t have any problems while driving. 

Features of the 2020 Lexus NX Hybrid

The interior of the 2020 Lexus NX Hybrid is a high point for the vehicle. Advanced technology features that come standard include an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, proximity keyless entry, push-button start, and an available Wi-Fi hot spot. 

Advanced safety features are another area the 2020 NX Hybrid shines. Included as standard are a forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, a lane-departure warning with lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, lane centering, and traffic sign recognition. That’s a fantastic amount of advanced features. 

Other Lexus vehicles that made the list with higher ratings

With all of those great features, it makes sense for the 2020 Lexus NX Hybrid to be included in U.S. News’ list of the Best Luxury SUVs Under $40,000. So, aren’t you curious about the other cars on the list that are rated more highly? At the top of the list with a score of 8.4/10 was the 2020 BMW X1. A high point for the BMW X1 is its handling, being known to feel more like you’re driving a sedan than an SUV, so it’s important to note the difference between the top-rated SUV and the NX Hybrid with its disappointing handling.

Other Lexus vehicles that made the list include the 2020 Lexus Envision, the 2020 Lexus NX, the 2020 Lexus UX Hybrid, and the 2020 Lexus UX. The prior three came in ranked right after the NX Hybrid, and the UX came in at number 7, in the middle of the pack, with 7.6/10.

It’s clear that Lexus continues to play its cards right in the luxury game, with five SUVs in U.S. News’ list of the top luxury SUVs, but we’re excited to see them strive for higher rankings in the years to come.