Since 2014, the Lexus NX has been turning heads and commanding respect, thanks to the “right” pricing, futuristic styling, and legendary Lexus quality.
Lexus has always done a great job with the NX, delivering a stylish crossover-luxury vehicle with a sporty driving style and excellent fuel efficiency, and the NX just got better for 2018.
The Lexus NX has blown away projected sales each year in every major market – namely North America, China and Europe. The new look for the 2018 Lexus NX is an evolutionary move towards an even bolder and more dynamic style. A few other changes for 2018 include the shift from the NX200t nomenclature to NX300, and the Lexus Safety System+ now comes as standard with every model.
Design
Lexus implements the skills of Takumi (meaning ‘master’ in Japanese) to produce high-quality components. Everything right down to the intricate needlework on the NX’s leather surfaces has been overseen by a Takumi craftsman. According to Takeaki Kato, chief engineer of the NX, “Even if it can’t be immediately seen, an acute attention to detail – such as the way the stitching of materials creates a subtle pattern – can be felt spiritually to make a difference to the customer. That is the essence of the Takumi way that elevates the entire construction of a Lexus.”
Going beyond the mechanized processes of producing a vehicle, it’s clear that Lexus really wants to highlight how important the human touch is to each Lexus: “From the finish of the paint to the resonance of the engine, their highly-tuned senses of sight, hearing and touch are crucial to perfecting the fit, finish and feel of every (vehicle),” says Kato.
Also central to the Lexus design culture is the concept of Omotenashi, by which the car maker is able to not only anticipate expectations but go far beyond them – even before the driver has realized it as a need. The aim here is to help the driver and owner connect on a deeper level with the vehicle itself, beyond just as a vehicle to get one from Point A to Point B.
OK, so all these statements are impressive but how do they all come together? Nicely, in fact, especially in the 2018 version as the design and functionality seem to merge together as one.
The spindle grille and sharply angled headlights are carried over from previous models, though it’s more aggressive for 2018. While some may have thought these are too aggressive or radical in past years, most people have grown to like the spindle design.
The interior of the NX is far more subdued, perhaps to balance out the extroverted exterior. The front seats are supportive and luxury details are apparent throughout, such as polished metal accents. I am still not a fan of the Lexus infotainment system because it’s awkward to operate; Lexus, just give us the touch panels instead!
The Lexus Safety System+ now comes standard with this model, which implements superior safety technology such as Automatic High Beam, Lane Departure Alert, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control System, and Pre-Collision System. Another improvement over previous years is reduced noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) due to sound-deadening elements placed intuitively throughout.
The Lexus NX has a few package options available, depending on if you choose the 300 or the 300h. With the 300, you have a choice of Premium, F Sport Series, or Luxury trim. With the 300h (hybrid option), you have a choice of Premium or Executive trim.
Performance
The new refreshed model offers sharper handling and a more streamlined driving experience. Compared with the previous model, the NX runs basically the same but with new Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) to improve handling and ride experience. This is already found in the LC 500 and offers up to 650 instant adjustments (compared with only 30 for previous models).
The engine stays the same as in the 2017 model, as does the six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive system. The NX still provides 235 horsepower with the gasoline turbo-four, and 194 h.p. with the 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with the Toyota hybrid drive system. Fuel economy (city/highway/combined) clocks in around 10.7/8.5/9.7 litres/100 kilometres for the NX300 and 7.2/7.9/7.5 l/100 km with the hybrid 300h. This is a match made in heaven for those discerning buyers who want good fuel economy in a luxurious ride.
Overall, the subtle improvements are appreciated but the steering feel is still missing the natural feel that’s the hallmark of German cars. The car is silky smooth and highly polished in every possible way, but the ride can be stiff over bumpy roads.
Both Audi and BMW updated their models (Q5 and X3), so the comparison may be unfair as these drive with improved handling, smoothness, and performance. Acura is bringing an all new version of the RDX too, so the market is going to get hotter with better products soon.
Summary
As the luxury offering of Toyota, Lexus utilizes Japanese esthetic and attention to detail with every vehicle made, and the 2018 Lexus NX is no exception. With excellent fuel efficiency, a bold and sporty dynamism, smooth and comfortable handling and top safety ratings to boot, the Lexus NX has winning attributes. The Lexus NX has poised itself as a top competitor in a market that has many new faces. How it will hold up in sales over time is yet to be seen, but for now the future looks bright for the 2018 Lexus NX. MSRP pricing starts from $44,050 and increases up to $55,300.
