The all-new NX opens a whole new chapter for Lexus, heralding new directions in design, powertrains and dynamic handling that deliver a more rewarding and connected driving experience. Next-generation multimedia and connectivity coupled with the application of advanced technologies for higher levels of safety, comfort and convenience further confirm the VIP status of this new mid-size luxury SUV in the Lexus line-up.
It replaces a model that has been very successful for Lexus. To build on this achievement and deliver a compelling new product to customers who today expect much more from their vehicle, Lexus has carried out a total reinvention of the NX. Its ambition and commitment are demonstrated by the major advances in performance, handling and efficiency – this is also reflected in the fact that 95 per cent of the vehicle’s parts are new.
All of this has been achieved while maintaining Lexus’ essential human-centred approach to vehicle development. On top of this, to give the newcomer the broadest possible appeal, Lexus offers the NX with no less than three different powertrains along with a choice of three grades including an F SPORT option on the Hybrid model for the very first time.
A New Design Direction
The new NX marks a significant evolution of Lexus design, developing the avant garde appeal of the original model but expressing a more sophisticated, dynamic and mature appearance, while at the same time conveying a muscular demeanor.
The aim was “functional beauty,” to meet increasingly diverse customer requirements and preferences. The new NX displays balanced, strong proportions with a road-gripping stance. Overall length has increased by 20mm, the wheelbase by 30mm, the width by 20mm and the height by 5mm – dimensions which ensure optimum packaging, notably with more usable space for rear seat passengers.
At the front, the Lexus spindle grille is set more upright and is more subtly framed. Wider front and rear tracks contribute to the more agile and powerful look, with a long, sleek bonnet, short overhangs and wheel arches that can accommodate the large-diametre, 20-inch ‘footwear’. At the rear the distinctive new features include Lexus blade lighting that spans the width of the tailgate and the first use of the “LEXUS” name in place of the “L” emblem, creating a more modern and simpler look.
New Tazuna Cockpit Design
The NX is the first model to feature Lexus’ Tazuna cockpit design. Taking its name from a Japanese word describing a rider’s use of the reins to control a horse, it is focused on giving the driver direct, intuitive vehicle control, following the principle of “hands on the wheel, eyes on the road.”
The cockpit space curves round from the driver’s door to the centre console, with information sources – multimedia screen, multi-information display, combimeter and Heads Up display (Grade dependent) – grouped in a unified area so they can be read with minimal eye and head movement. Similarly controls such as the starter button, shift lever, air conditioning controls and drive mode selector are set on the same plane, so reach and operation are simple and intuitive.
The new NX is the first Lexus model to be fitted with the e-latch electronic door release system (SE & F SPORT grades). This replaces the familiar internal door handle with a push-button switch next to the arm rest in the door panel, operated in a single, smooth movement. Safe Exit Assist links the e-latch to the NX’s Blind Spot Monitor, providing a warning if there is a risk of opening a door into the path of a vehicle or cyclist approaching from the rear and cancelling the action if necessary to avoid a collision. Lexus believes this can help prevent 95 per cent of the accidents caused by door opening.
Powertrains and Performance
Lexus has drawn on more than 15 years of hybrid electric technology expertise to produce the new NX 350h which employs the brand’s fourth-generation hybrid technology. It pairs two electric motors (and an all-new lithium-ion battery pack) with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder for a combined output of 179kW. Power is up by 19 per cent compared to the outgoing model, improving the 0-100km/h dash by 15 percent to 7.7 seconds and reaching a governed top speed of 200 km/h. At the same time, CO2 emissions fall by 23 percent (114 grams per km). All-important fuel-sipping credentials come in at 5.0 litres per 100 kilometres. The NX Hybrid is kitted with the latest version of Lexus E-CVT, an intelligent continuously variable transmission that has an infinite number of gear ratios at its disposal. By constantly analysing vehicle speed, road conditions, engine power and driver input, it selects the optimal (most efficient) gear ratio for that precise moment. Without the constraining effect of fixed gear ratios, the engine can be operated at its most efficient speed to either propel the car or charge the batteries. And if the computer decides that the petrol motor is not needed for a time, it can be shut down and the twin-input E-CVT used to direct propulsion from the electric motors to the wheels instead. Of course, the driver can also use the paddle shifts to select an appropriate ‘gear’ via one of the car’s onboard computers to jump to another spot in the powerband and continue accelerating.
This is the pivotal engine choice in the NX repertoire as it focuses on Lexus’ Carbon Neutral direction and reinforces a model line-up with the most comprehensive range of hybrid vehicles in the country. Without a doubt, hybrid remains the default green choice for the South African consumer given our current glaring challenges on the electricity front. That said, Lexus South Africa is looking at augmenting its line-up of vehicles with Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs) as well as full Battery Electric models (BEVs) when the time is right. Keep watching this space…
Flanking the key hybrid models is the entry NX250 model at the one end and the virile NX350 on the other side of the performance spectrum – both come with an eight-speed automatic box. The NX250 is equipped with a smooth, direct-injected 2.5-liter four-cylinder pushing out a responsive 152kW and a complementary 243Nm of torque. This endows the most affordable NX with a light and agile Lexus luxury medium SUV experience. The obligatory 0-100 sprint is dispatched in a respectable 9.1 seconds, while the combined fuel cycle is pegged at a very modest 7,1 litres per 100km.
The decidedly raunchier NX350 is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder mill and pumps out a hefty 205kW with a concomitant 430Nm of torque resulting in a relatively snappy 0-100km/h acceleration time of 7 seconds. This model consumes 8,1 litres per 100km in the combined cycle.
Every Lexus NX is delivered with the Lexus Warranty Experience featuring an industry leading seven years/105 000km and for NX 350h a leading eight years/195 000 km battery warranty.
In addition, all Lexus owners can sign up online for a personal MyLexus profile. This platform allows owners to quickly and conveniently access all information and services related to their vehicle(s). Additionally, all new Lexus (and Toyota) vehicles are fitted with a device that opens up a whole new world of features. Simply opt in and you have access to WiFi capability (first 15 megs free) along with a host of supplementary Connect services.
Lexus NX pricing
| Model | Price |
| Lexus NX 250 EX | R968 000 |
| Lexus NX 350 EX | R1 000 100 |
| Lexus NX 350 SE | R1 172 900 |
| Lexus NX 350h F SPORT | R1 200 800 |
| Lexus NX 350 F SPORT | R1 211 900 |
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