Lexus is the latest manufacturer to enter the ever-growing luxury compact SUV segment. By creating a stylish, this-looks-like-a-Transformer vehicle called the NX, it's trying to make a real impact in this fiercely competitive market.
The NX is eye-catching, comfortable and comes with Lexus' reputation for reliability. Rivals include the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, though the NX is actually bigger and roomier than most of these cars.
The NX is available in two models: the NX 200t which is the first Lexus with a turbocharged engine, and the NX 300h which has a sophisticated hybrid system.
Design
The Lexus NX is loosely based on the Toyota RAV4 mechanically, but the design is much more dramatic and it is so different from the RAV4 that you can't see any resemblance from inside or out.
The first thing you notice about the NX is the gaping trapezoidal front grille. Lexus' trademark "spindle" grille dominates the front, which protrudes quite far ahead of the front axle but is actually surprisingly appealing.
Intricately detailed LED headlights sit high on the NX's shoulders. The separate daytime running lights are sharp and accent the striking grille.
Moving along the side, the doors are nicely sculpted and the rounded roof gives the NX a balanced appearance.
At the back, the three-dimensional taillights add some drama; the edge of the lights actually stick out from the body making the car look wider than it really is. The spoiler over the window and dual exhausts make it look aggressive.
The cabin is driver-focused and available with impressive levels of onboard technology. Passengers will appreciate how spacious and comfortable the NX is in comparison to other compact SUVs. Those who want extra spice thrown into the NX can add the F Sport package, which includes an even more menacing front grille, F Sport badging, aluminium sport pedals, a G-force meter, and liquid injection foam F Sport seats.
Performance
As mentioned, the NX 200t is the first Lexus with a twin-scroll turbocharged engine. The 2.0-litre Atkinson cycle four-cylinder delivers 235 horsepower and 258 foot-pounds of torque, which is pretty good but not class-leading.
Being an all-new engine, it is packed with modern technology which includes the turbo that is built into the exhaust manifold — this helps reduce turbo lag to almost unnoticeable levels.
Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, the NX 200t offers sporty dynamics with all-wheel drive and a lock-up torque converter. A three-setting Drive Mode Select system (Sport, Normal and Eco) allows drivers to modify vehicle responsiveness.
Since the NX 300h weighs more and has less power, it feels less peppy than its stablemate. The Lexus Hybrid Drive system is built around a 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle four-cylinder and delivers 194 total system horsepower and 152 foot-pounds of torque.
Mated to an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission and all-wheel drive, the NX 300h provides smooth acceleration yet 7.4 litres/100 kilometres combined fuel efficiency.
Also, this is the first Lexus Hybrid Drive to feature a kick-down function to improve acceleration. And, the hybrid battery is split into two separate pods for better weight distribution.
While the handling is crisp and linear, there is something absent from the NX's driving characteristic. Perhaps its ride is too smooth; perhaps the steering is too numb — not sure the exact reason but the NX excites its drivers from the outside but not so much when it's driven.
Environment
The cabin of the NX has a lot going for it and feels more expensive than the price suggests. The dash is covered in stitched material and nearly every other surface is soft and/or padded with high levels of accuracy. Interior measurements of the NX are very similar to the RAV4. As with the exterior, however, the NX is more sport-minded as indicated by the tighter seats and wide centre console. The front seats are very supportive and comfortable. To provide further comfort and versatility, the rear seats split 60/40 and they even power recline and power fold. These are nice-to-have features that soon become must-have items. Not only is the NX quiet and comfortable, but it's also filled with intelligent technology. For example, it's available with a Wireless Charging Tray and a 6.2-inch heads-up display — the largest in the Lexus range.
The new optional Remote Touch Interface controls the navigation, climate control and connected devices. It works better than older designs found in other Lexus models and uses Haptic feedback when the cursor is over one of the on-screen buttons. Still, just give us an actual touch panel because no matter which automaker attempts to make these more user friendly, they are awful to use in general.
The cargo capacity in the NX is less than the RAV4, thanks to its sloping roof. Capacity is 0.5 cubic metres in the NX 200t, and 0.475 cubic metres in the NX 300h.
Features
The NX 200t has a starting price of $40,950, and the NX 300h starts at $58,850. Standard equipment includes a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, heated exterior mirrors, auto dimming rearview mirror, backup camera, smart key system, and Bluetooth capability. Additional features, available as options or on higher trims, include ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, clearance and backup sensors, dynamic cruise control, lane keeping assist system, blind spot monitoring, pre-collision system, rear cross traffic alert, rain-sensing wipers, and auto high beam. Fuel efficiency numbers (litres/100 kilometres) for the NX 200t are 10.8 city, 8.8 highway and 9.9 combined. The NX 300h returns 7.1 city, 7.7 highway and 7.4 combined.
Thumbs up
The new design certainly turns heads. Also, the new turbocharged engine is exciting and provides strong performance and admirable fuel economy.
Thumbs down
The engine is raspy and the steering is numb, making the new NX a good performance vehicle but not a great one from a handling perspective.
The bottom line
If you are looking for a unique, high-tech oriented and reliable crossover that is also eye-catching, give the Lexus NX some consideration.
Competitors
Audi Q3: The Audi Q3 was one of the first luxury compact SUVs. Its fit and finish and assured road manners are similar to its larger siblings, the Q5. The design is beautiful and the car is exciting to drive. The Audi Q3 has a starting price of $35,800.
BMW X1: Like most BMWs, the X1 is the personification of performance-meets-luxury. To that end, the X1 is available in either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive trim. The X1 drives amazingly well and provides a practical package. Starting at $36,990, the X1 is one the most affordable BMW's you can buy.
Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class: Like the NX, the GLA-Class is an all-new competitor in this segment. Unlike many of its rivals, the GLA is low to the ground and more of a large wagon, albeit a very luxurious one. The car is a blast to drive though. Those interested can bring home a GLA-Class starting at $37,200.
editor@automotivepress.com
