The world debut of the new Lexus NX was held at the Beijing motor show and is the first Lexus to enter the fast-growing premium compact crossover segment
The initial showing of the all-new NX at the Beijing motor show marks the company’s entry into the fast-growing premium compact crossover market.
The NX will be available with three powertrains, which are designated in the model name: a highly efficient hybrid in the NX 300h; a new, Lexus-developed 2.0-liter petrol turbo unit in the NX 200t; and naturally aspirated 2.0 liter petrol engine in the NX 200. Front and all-wheel drive versions will be available, together with Lexus’ start-stop system. Depending upon the model, the NX comes with 17″ or 18″ wheels.
Lexus NX.
The NX also offers Lexus’ first wireless charging tray for easy charging of mobile phones and other devices and the first application of a new Lexus Remote Touch Interface with a touchpad control. Further features include a new Panoramic View Monitor, a comprehensive multi-information display (incorporating for the first time a G-sensor and boost meter), head-up display, blind spot monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
As per the beautiful LFA, the range will include a distinctive F Sport version, with sportier design and dedicated styling elements, including cosmetic changes at the front (but they have kept the dreadful ‘spindle’ grille), sports seats and bespoke interior trims.
The NX 300h uses a sophisticated hybrid system control specially developed for the model, using the proven Lexus 2.5 liter Atkinson cycle engine, generator, motor and battery. Total system output is 195 bhp/145 kW.
Features specific to the hybrid NX include sprung-weight damping control to increase ride comfort and handling stability by reducing pitching when driving on uneven surfaces.
NX 200t uses the new Lexus 2.0 liter petrol turbo engine, engineered for excellent fuel economy matched to a six-speed automatic transmission that has been specially tuned for the NX. Maximum power is 235 bhp/175 kW between 4,800 and 5,600 rpm and maximum torque is 350 Nm, available from 1,650 to 4,000 rpm.
Lexus claims the engine underwent more than one million kilometers of testing over different road conditions and in harsh driving environments. Its design features a world-first combination of water-cooled cylinder head, integrated exhaust manifold and twin-scroll turbocharger.
The automatic transmission uses a new torque-demand control logic, calculating and maximizing the required engine torque to deliver quick response to throttle inputs and high fuel efficiency.
The NX 200 has a naturally aspirated 2.0 liter petrol engine with Lexus’ Valvematic technology to achieve high torque through a wider valve opening angle and an extended variable valve timing operating range.
The unit runs with a high compression ratio and uses diagonal fuel injectors, optimizing the fuel mixture to produce strong power output across the full rev range. The engine works with a newly developed, electronically controlled S-CVT/Multidrive sequential shift transmission.
Safety – the comprehensive safety package includes a new, full-range Panoramic View Monitor uses the highest resolution camera yet to be fitted to a Lexus, all-speed Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. New cornering headlamps and a head-up display are also featured in the range.
The dimensions are:
Overall length 4,630 mm
Overall width: 1,845 mm
Overall height: 1,645 mm (with shark’s fin antenna)
Wheelbase: 2,660 mm
Front track: 1,580 mm (225 mm tyre), 1,570 mm (235 tyre)
Rear track: 1,580 mm (225 mm tyre), 1,570 mm (235 tyre)
