Introduced in late 2014, it is positioned between the subcompact UX and the mid-size RX in Lexus’ crossover SUV lineup.

[8] The NX variants sold in the United States feature slightly altered fascias, which facilitate higher departure angles, allowing it to be identified by the US EPA as a "light truck".

The tailgate also received new sheetmetal, echoing Lexus "spindle motif" grille design.

The NX 200t/300 is powered by a 2.0-liter 8AR-FTS turbocharged four-cylinder direct injection engine that can run on both Otto and Atkinson cycles.

In addition, the NX 200 with a 2.0-liter 3ZR-FAE naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 110 kW (148 hp; 150 PS) is available in the Russian market[15] and in China.

The NX incorporates Lexus' new design philosophy, which includes overlapping L shape daytime running lamps that were first introduced onto the RC and UX in 2018.

This change was done last-minute during development, as a leaked marketing material video in February 2021 shows the vehicle using older 'L' rear badge.

[22] The suspension consists of MacPherson struts in front and a trailing arm, double-wishbone design at the rear with extra tuning for the shock absorbers.

NVH improvements was done, with Lexus claiming that the air flow and wind noise entering into the cabin has been reduced by around 15 percent.

Emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control are all standard.

The air conditioning system utilises a deodorising and pollen removal clean-air filter.

The Lexus Safety System+ is standard, and F Sport grades receive Adaptive Variable Suspension with lateral performance dampers.

The 2.4-liter T24A-FTS turbocharged four-cylinder engine was introduced for the NX 350, producing 205 kW (275 hp; 279 PS) and 430 N⋅m (317 lb⋅ft) of torque.

The NX 450h+ was also introduced as the first plug-in hybrid vehicle in Lexus' lineup and shares the same powertrain as the RAV4 PHV.