LEXUS NX

Should I Buy a Lexus NX or a Lexus RX?

October 21, 2019 by admin 3 Comments

Decisions, decisions. That’s the challenge new vehicle shoppers face when considering one of more than 400 models available to them these days. However, that search becomes much easier when you narrow the field to a particular brand, such as Lexus, which is the luxury marque for Toyota Motors.

Even so, you may find yourself stumped when comparing utility vehicles, as Lexus offers five models plus three hybrid variants. If you’re looking for a five-passenger model, you’ve immediately narrowed your search to three: the Lexus UX 200, NX 300, and the RX 350, although the latter does have available third-row seats, pushing your capacity to seven individuals.

That said, if you want comfortable room for five, then you’ll want to eliminate the small UX and concentrate on the NX and RX, the latter without the third-row package. There are some important differences between the two, but both do move five people in cosseted luxury.

The following are important points about Lexus NX and RX:

1. New features for 2020.

The Lexus NX benefits from a marginally expanded driver-assist safety features list. As for the RX, the changes are much more robust in keeping with its mid-cycle upgrade. Indeed, the 2020 RX has new front and rear fascia, updated suspension hardware, and updated tech.

2. Comparable storage space.

We see this a lot: storage space that’s nearly the same between different-sized models. The reason? To add more passenger space in the larger model to set them apart. Indeed, the closeness is quite apparent: 17.7 cubic feet for the NX and 18.4 cubic feet for the RX. With the second-row seat folded, the separation is a bit more apparent 54..6 versus 57.6 cubic feet. In effect, both models offer decent storage capacity, especially behind the first row.

3. Laudable tech features.

Both models feature an 8-inch touch-screen display, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and Apple CarPlay smartphone compatibility. HD Radio, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa are included with the RX. You’ll find six USB ports in the RX, while the NX has just one port. The NX has an 8-speaker audio system; the RX comes with 9 speakers. NX options include a 10.3-inch screen, navigation, and 10- and 14-speaker audio systems. The RX has an available 12.3-inch screen, navigation, and 12- and 15-speaker audio packages. Both models rely on the Lexus Remote touch interface, which has a steep learning curve.

4. Diverging performance methods.

The Lexus RX is 10 inches longer and 300 pounds heavier than the NX, with the added weight due in part to its larger engine displacing 3.5 liters. This V6 produces 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the NX makes 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Both engines work with an 8-speed automatic transmission. We’ve driven both models and can say the NX is just as fast as the RX in all things passing. Lexus may use diverging ways to deliver power with the two models, but they get it done.

5. Choose your F Sport.

Both models offer an F Sport variant, which includes trim enhancements, such as mesh grilles, a black headliner, leather touches, and aluminum pedals. You’ll also get a sport-tuned suspension, giving this model a handling advantage over the base trim.

6. Safety is their concern.

Credit Lexus with not shying away from including a long list of standard safety features. The NX received the IIHS’ Top Safety Pick+ plus award, while the RX earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Both models come with a roster of safety equipment, including pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control and traffic sign recognition. The RX adds forward collision warning and forward automatic emergency braking, with the latter an upgrade on the NX.

The beautiful interior of the Lexus RX F Sport.

7. NuLuxe or real leather.

Both models offer standard NuLuxe fabric, which is a worthwhile alternative to real leather. For those of you who despise the thought of sacrificing animals for your comfort, your comfort isn’t sacrificed with imitation leather, at least not in Lexus. It has the look and feel of the real thing, which should please most buyers.

Lexus NX or RX: Your Choice

Lexus charges from $36,720 for the NX and $44,150 for the RX. That’s about a $7,500 difference between the two. All-wheel drive is a $1,400 upgrade with either model and should be considered by anyone living in a snowy climate.

All in all, Lexus has two strong competitors in the NX and RX. Besides F Sport models, both have hybrid variants. We didn’t cover those models here, but each one may be worth a look, especially if fuel efficiency is a priority for you.

2020 Lexus NX Specifications

Lexus	2020 NX
Segment	Compact SUV
Price Range	$36,720 to $48,575
Destination Charge	$1,025
Standard Engine	2.0-liter, turbo I4
Horsepower	235 hp @ 4,800-5,600 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.)	258 lb.-ft. @ 1,650-4,000 rpm
Transmission	8-speed automatic
Seating	5
Curb Weight (pounds)	3,940 to 4,050
Wheelbase (inches)	104.7
Length (inches)	182.3
Width (inches)	73.6
Height (inches)	64.8
Headroom (f,r…inches)	38.2, 38.1
Legroom (f,r…inches)	42.8, 36.1
Shoulder room (f,r…inches)	57.3, 55.3
Hip room (f,r…inches)	55.1, 53.9
Storage (cubic feet)	17.7, 54.6
Gross vehicle weight (pounds)	5,090 to 5,200
Towing (pounds)	2,000
Payload (pounds)	NR
Fuel	regular
Fuel Tank (gallons)	15.9
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined)	22/28/24 (AWD); 22/28/25 (FWD) 22/27/24 (AWD F Sport)
Manufacturing Plant	Tahara, Aichi Japan

Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.

2020 Lexus RX Specifications

Lexus	2020 RX
Segment	Midsize SUV
Price Range	$44,150 to $49,350
Destination Charge	$1,025
Standard Engine	3.5-liter, V6
Horsepower	295 hp @ 6,300 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.)	267 lb.-ft. @ 4,700 rpm
Transmission	8-speed automatic
Seating	5
Curb Weight (pounds)	4,222 to 4,387
Wheelbase (inches)	109.8
Length (inches)	192.5
Width (inches)	74.6
Height (inches)	67.7
Headroom (f,r…inches)	39.4, 39.1
Legroom (f,r…inches)	44.1, 38.0
Shoulder room (f,r…inches)	57.8, 57.6
Hip room (f,r…inches)	56.6, 56.1
Storage (cubic feet)	18.4, 56.3
Gross vehicle weight (pounds)	5,666 to 5,864
Towing (pounds)	3,500
Payload (pounds)	NR
Fuel	regular
Fuel Tank (gallons)	19.2
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined)	19/26/22(AWD); 20/28/23(FWD)
Manufacturing Plant	Cambridge, Ontario Canada

Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.

See Also — About the Refreshed 2020 Lexus RX

Compact Luxury and the Lexus NX

April 1, 2019 by admin

In a world of utility vehicles, Lexus is well represented. From the small UX to the compact NX, and from the popular RX to the big GX and LX models, Lexus has something for everyone. You’ll even find hybrid options with the first three choices, each of which delivers outstanding efficiency and cleaner emissions.

2019 Lexus NX Overview

The 2019 Lexus NX returns without major changes this year. This model was launched as the NX 200t in 2015 and is officially known as the NX 300. The NX 300h is the hybrid variant and is marketed separately. Our review covers the gas-powered model only.

Lexus offers the 2019 NX in two trims: 300 ($36,485) and 300 F Sport ($38,725). Add $1,025 for the delivery, processing & handling fee. Front-wheel drive is standard. Opt for all-wheel drive and your price increases by $1,400.

2019 Lexus NX

You’ll find four package options with the base model. These include a Navigation Package ($1,860), which bundles a navigation system with a 10.3-inch display screen, a 10-speaker audio system, and an additional USB port, and a Comfort Package ($980) with heated and ventilated front seats, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic dimming side mirrors with automatic tilt-down in reverse.

The two other packages include a Premium Package ($3,270). This one bundles enhanced LED daytime running lights, a power moonroof, 18-inch alloy wheels, power side mirrors, heated and ventilated front seats, a power tilt-and-telescopic stewing wheel, and blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Building on this package is the Luxury Package ($4,705), which adds linear black shadow wood interior trim, perforated leather-trimmed interior, and rain-sensing wipers.

You’ll find individual options offered as well, including an outer-sliding moonroof ($1,100), power rear doors with kick sensor ($550), upgraded wheels ($420), heated front seats ($440), power-folding and reclining rear seats ($400), and other comfort and safety options.

As for the F Sport models, these feature enhanced styling and an adaptive variable suspension system. You’ll also find gauge upgrades, improved seat bolstering, and other special touches. A few of the package offerings found in the base model are available here. Each has its own take based on the trim.

A Matter of Style

The NX’s dimensions are small and parallel the size of the Toyota RAV4 on which it is based. But apart from platform sharing, these two models are dramatically different.

Up front, the expected Lexus hourglass grille dominates and is offset by signature L-shaped accent lights. Wraparound headlamps and fog lamps add flair. The hood’s crease lines meet up with the edges of the grille for a dramatic touch.

The NX’s profile may be its most controversial feature. It has a falling roofline, a high beltline, dramatic body sculpting just above the rocker panels, and big arched wheel wells. From the rear, the look is only slightly less dramatic with this model’s clamshell liftgate topped by a spoiler and accented by wing-like wraparound tail lamps. With the NX, Lexus successfully found a way to blend luxury with sportiness.

2019 Lexus NX

Inside, the cabin is cozy, not especially roomy and is definitely ideal for four, not five. In any case, the NX features choice materials along with excellent fit and finish — leather, aluminum, and available wood trim combine to give the interior a look that is at once elegant as it is sophisticated. Further, Lexus dresses the seats in NuLuxe, which is imitation leather and as close to the real thing you’ll find in terms of comfort and breathability.

Lexus divides the upper and lower sections of the dashboard by color, supplying a two-tone effect that meets at the center stack. The color display sits on top of the dashboard and the entire stack is trimmed in aluminum. Just enough buttons, knobs, and switches are at the ready — not too many to feel cluttered, but enough to cause the driver to examine further. The Remote Touch controller requires a moderate learning curve and was frustrating at times. On the other hand, the interface in the all-new 2019 ES is much simpler and will likely find its way to a future NX.

The front seats are very comfortable and adequately bolstered. Access to the rear compartment requires lowering your head to avoid bumping it. Once inside, that space holds two adults reasonably well, but if you’re tall, then legroom becomes an issue, especially if either front seat is pushed back. In this case, the Lexus RX is the better choice for four adults. It also has a third-row option, which is ideal for carrying children.

Storage space is small, measuring just 17.7 cubic feet behind the second-row seat and 54.6 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. The competing Acura RDX offers 31.1/79.8 cubic feet of storage space, while the Cadillac XT4 splits the advantage with 22.5/48.9 cubic feet of space.

2019 Lexus NX

Safety & Technology

There is some very good news on the tech front this year, at least for models built after Oct. 1, 2018. Both Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa functionality are included. As for Google Android Auto? Not yet. We expect Toyota/Lexus to add this feature sometime in 2020. But we can’t say it’ll be included retroactively for existing models.

Managing most interior functions requires using the Remote Touch controller found between the seats near the stick shift lever. It is a one-finger-touch controller that acts very much like a mouse — you simply need to hover over the correct command to activate same. On paper, this isn’t all that difficult. In reality, it can sometimes prove frustrating, even distracting. You should familiarize yourself with its workings before you hit the road.

The standard 8-speaker audio system delivers excellent sound and works with the 8-inch screen. All models come with Bluetooth and USB smartphone connectivity. HD Radio and Siri Eyes Free are also included. A navigation system is available and comes bundled with other multimedia improvements, including a 10.3-inch color split-screen display and a 10-speaker audio system.

As for safety features, Lexus goes beyond the universally standard rear-view monitor to include a suite of driver-assist items. Beginning with automatic high beams, Lexus bundles a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, and dynamic radar cruise control with full stop. Also available is blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

2019 Lexus NX

On the Road

Under the hood of every NX model (except for the hybrid) is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas engine. This engine produces 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. In a world where 8-speed automatic transmissions are commonplace, the NX relies on six forward gears. We expect that’ll change when a new model arrives next year.

The NX isn’t especially fast off the line and turbo lag is noticeable, but that’s not much of a deterrent. We found the NX performs best on the highway as it throws down ample passing power as needed.

The steering is evenly weighted and agile. You’ll be able to swing into an empty parking lot with ease and exit the same. On the highway, it adds weight for a more composed feel. On twisty roads, the NX throws in some body roll, but not enough to make a difference. Choose the F Sport version with its adaptive suspension system if you desire improved handling, especially when pulling out of corners.

Play with the drive mode select (eco, normal, sport) and gear changes and throttle mapping change. Reserved exclusively for the F Sport are Sport S and Sport S+ modes, but only when equipped with the adaptive suspension system.

As for fuel efficiency, this model is rated 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway for a combined EPA-estimated 24 mpg. Keep in mind that the NX takes premium grade gasoline only.

2019 Lexus NX

Auto Trends Recommends

The Lexus NX is showing its age as it nears the end of its first generation. Nearly every competing model is newer and that means consumers have much to consider when evaluating their options.

Although not the focus of this review, the hybrid variant offers a compelling reason to consider the NX. It costs $2,400 more than the standard model, but it comes with all-wheel drive. This means it only costs $950 more than the comparable all-wheel-drive gas-powered NX, while delivering a 7 mpg edge. As fuel prices continue to rise, you’ll recover the extra cost of the hybrid quickly.

2019 Lexus NX

2019 Lexus NX 300 Specifications

Sticker price from $37,785
Price as tested: $50,893 (estimated)
Seats 5 occupants
2.0-liter 16-valve turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine
235 horsepower @ 4,800 to 5,600 rpm
258 foot-pounds of torque @ 1,650 to 4,000 rpm
3.40 inches bore by 3.40 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 10.0-to-1
6-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 104.7 inches
Length: 182.7 inches
Width: 73.6 inches
Height: 64.8 inches
Passenger volume: 71.6 cubic feet
Storage volume: 17.7/54.6 cubic feet
Towing capacity: 2,000 pounds (with luxury package)
EPA: 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway
Premium grade gasoline required
Fuel tank: 15.9 gallons
Curb weight: From 3,940 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Top Safety Pick (2018)
Limited vehicle warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 6 years/70,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 6 years
Vehicle assembly: Kyushu, Japan

2019 Lexus NX

See Also — F Sport Fun: 2018 Lexus GS 350

Compact Luxury Crossover: 2015 Lexus NX 200t F Sport

January 9, 2015 by admin 7 Comments

No surprise: a hybrid joins the NX line too.

Lexus NX

An aggressive face marks the 2015 Lexus NX.

Lexus made the most logical move in 2014 by introducing a new crossover utility vehicle to slot beneath its segment-leading RX line. Since the dawning of the new millennium, consumers have turned to utilities in increasingly significant numbers, thus the outlook for entry-level premium models is an especially promising one. Likewise, Lexus had to reciprocate and has done so by means of its all-new for 2015 NX line.

The Lexus NX is based on the same platform underpinning the Toyota RAV4 and yet the similarities largely stop there. The NX has its own sheet metal, unique interior and offers a twin-scroll turbocharged version of the RAV4’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. A naturally-aspirated version of that engine is sold in two consumer markets — China and Russia — with a hybrid variant also available in the US.

Lexus NX

2015 Lexus NX

The standard front-wheel drive 2015 Lexus NX is priced from $34,480 for the 200t edition ($35,880 for all-wheel drive). Select the F Sport edition and the price starts at $36,580 ($37,980 AWD). Opt for the hybrid 300h and the starting price comes in at $39,720 or $41,310 when equipped with all-wheel drive.

Lexus loaned me a front-wheel drive F Sport edition for a week just as 2014 closed. That model came with a premium package ($2,890), a navigation system package ($2,140) and a comfort package ($505). Other options included a blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert ($660), a pre-collision system with radar cruise control ($900), intuitive parking assist ($500) and forged alloy wheels ($3,200).

At the dealer level you can select running boards, a tow hitch receiver, and other accessories. Fully loaded, you might pay upwards of $48,000 for one. Subsequently, I checked the local Lexus dealer inventory and found six in stock priced from the low- to mid-$40,000 range. These prices are in line with the competition, namely the Lincoln MKC, Audi Q3, Volvo XC60, BMW X3, Acura RDX and the Mercedes-Benz GLA Class.

Lexus NX

Strike a Pose

The NX’s fascia advances Lexus’ current design language. Most current models are dominated by a spindle-shaped grille and feature various L-shaped characteristics, including the LED daytime running lamps, headlights and fog lamp channels.

The “L-finesse” look does, of course, augment Lexus’ symbol, itself a stylish “L” design. Yes, I must concur with anyone else who notices that the LED daytime running lights resemble Nike’s energetic swoosh symbol. To my knowledge the two companies are not engaged in a co-marketing campaign.

To the rear, you have sharply angular tail lights, chrome trim and a pair of exhaust tips flanking a diffuser. When it comes to the NX’s profile it resembles the current generation RAV4 than not. And yet, you will find different door panels and a modified side window layout in the NX. Disclaimer: my wife drives a 2013 RAV4, a vehicle that this writer is thoroughly acquainted with. No matter, there are far more differences between the two as Lexus has put its own imprimatur on this compact conveyance.

Lexus NX

In the Cabin

The NX’s cabin has a more pronounced Lexus touch. Immediately evident are the two overhead and one driver footwell LED lights. Two more LED lights serve as the front map (or reading) lights, sensory activated at that. Personally, I am glad that more manufacturers are making use of LED cabin lights — once you have them you will not want to settle for anything less.

The Lexus NX offers no-compromise seating for five. The front bucket seats are extra bolstered with oversized active headrests. No seat extenders are present, an addition that makes long road trips and sport driving more enjoyable. The rear bench seat is a split 60-40 design with a plush fold down armrest with a pair of pop out cup holders. That would have served as a welcome place for a storage compartment. Nonetheless, rear seating passengers have access to rear seat pockets and in-door storage, the latter large enough to hold bottled drinks.

Lexus’s designers were all over this crossover’s interior, with stitching evident across the upper and lower parts of the dashboard. Brightwork trim, soft touch materials and NuLuxe covered seats, door inlays and storage compartment covers boost this interior. NuLuxe has the appearance and caress of leather, but it is not. On the contrary, NuLuxe represents the brand’s environmental awareness, weighing half as much as leather and generating significantly less carbon dioxide emissions in the manufacturing process. Moreover, no animal products were used in the manufacturing process, to the unbridled relief of animal-rights activists.

The NX’s instrument panel is composed of tachometer and speedometer displays, flanking a digital driver’s information system. That system is controlled by switches located on the face of the tilt and telescopic steering wheel along with cruise and secondary audio controls.

The center console is dominated by a tablet-sized screen, what is permanently fixed to the dashboard. Beneath that are switches and buttons for climate control with the temperature read outs flanking an analog clock.

A special touchpad offers one-finger control of the display screen. Instead of fiddling with knobs, buttons and switches as you make your way down the road, you can control the screen with just a touch of a finger. Consider it Lexus’ attempt to reduce technological distractions — you will get the hang of using it quite fast.

Behind the rear seat is covered storage with a full-size spare underneath. Additional compartmentalized storage is located next to the tire. Tie down hooks are present and ready for strapping. If you are of the family way with the little ones, there is tethering in place for a center-positioned car seat.

Lexus NX

2015 Lexus NX

View manufacturer details and pricing

Twin-Scroll Turbo

While other manufacturers have been embracing turbochargers for years, the Toyota Motor Corporation has eschewed the technology. Until now. In the NX 200t, you have the company’s first use of twin-scroll turbocharged technology, designed in house to deliver superior quality and performance. This gasoline direct-injected engine features a pair of exhaust gas inlets and nozzles, and makes 235 horsepower and 277 foot-pounds of torque. Lexus weds this engine with a shiftable six-speed automatic transmission and paddle shifters.

The outcome is a near imperceptible lack of turbo lag and more than enough power to move this ute with authority. Where the naturally-aspirated version of this engine is sufficient to accomplish the job, Lexus was not about to rest on its laurels and has, instead, delivered performance that should engender respect from enthusiasts. Moreover, the new engine signals to all that Lexus as well as Toyota and Scion will bring forth additional models featuring the science. Now if we can only convince Lexus to manufacture diesels.

Lexus NX

On the Road

Jump in, adjust the seat, fasten your seatbelt and hold on. Well, not exactly. Crossover utility vehicles rarely generate the driving elation found in sport coupes and sedans or in the rare performance utility vehicle such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT or the Infiniti QX70. At the same time the Lexus NX 200t will not lull you to sleep.

Notably, the F Sport edition does its best to bring out the ute’s performance side. All models feature MacPherson struts up front and double-wishbone suspension in the rear. Exclusive to the F Sport are front and rear performance dampers and a sport-tuned suspension. In addition, you get a dynamic digital display, what allows you to observe the data to track your performance, including G-force and turbo-boost monitor. It seems a bit strange to offer that information on a utility vehicle, however Lexus wants to amplify its performance credentials, not bury it.

For this model’s best driving mode, choose Sport and leave “normal” and “eco” to your more sedate driving. Press the pedal to the metal and you can reach 60 mph in just under seven seconds. As this was a front-wheel drive model, understeer is evident — really, no surprise there. At the same time the NX does a good job of handling twists and turns, and its braking is strong with no fade present. Certainly, the NX does not offer the drive fun of a Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT, but then you’re not paying $70,000 for this crossover as you would with the Jeep.

This pad controls the navigation screen.

Parting Shots

In the NX, Lexus adds a fourth entry-level model to the brand. You also have your choice of the rear-wheel drive IS line, the front-wheel drive ES and the hybrid CT 200h. To that end, if you aspire to upgrade from your current Toyota or Scion, or if you have some other luxury utility vehicle in mind, then the Lexus NX may make the grade. Furthermore, there is a hybrid variant for your consideration, the only one of its kind in this burgeoning segment.

2015 Lexus NX 200t F Sport

Sticker price from $36,580
Price as tested: $40,000 (estimated)
Seats 5 occupants
2.0-liter 16-valve turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine
235 horsepower @ 4,800 to 5,600 rpm
277 foot-pounds of torque @ 1,650 to 4,000 rpm
3.40 inches bore by 3.40 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 10.0-to-1
6-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 104.7 inches
Length: 182.3 inches
Width: 73.6 inches
Height: 64.8 inches
Passenger volume: 71.6 cubic feet
Storage volume: 17.7/54.6 cubic feet
Towing capacity: 2,000 pounds (with luxury package)
EPA: 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway
Premium grade gasoline required
Fuel tank: 15.9 gallons
Curb weight: From 3,940 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Top Safety Pick+
Limited vehicle warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 6 years/70,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 6 years
Vehicle assembly: Kyushu, Japan

Lexus NX Crossover Features Brand’s First Turbo

April 14, 2014 by admin 2 Comments

Lexus needs no introduction, but as Toyota’s luxury brand it has lacked a pair of engine choices that some of its chief competitors offer: diesels and turbocharged engines.

Don’t expect to see a diesel-powered Lexus stateside anytime soon — its multiple hybrid offerings fill the need for improved fuel economy. But, as far as turbos go, brand aficionados should be pleased that a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine will be available with the all-new Lexus NX crossover as it is set to make its global debut in Beijing on April 20.

2015 Lexus NX.

2015 Lexus NX

The NX puts Lexus in one of the fastest growing sub-segments of the utility vehicle market: compact luxury crossovers. Top competing models currently on the market or soon to arrive include the BMW X1 and Lincoln MKC as well as an expected model from Cadillac.

The 2015 Lexus NX is derived from the LF-NX concepts, first introduced at auto shows in Tokyo and Frankfurt in 2013. The planned CUV resembles the concept, but its edges have been relaxed while retaining its overall chiseled lines.

As profiled, the RX has a look that complements the larger RX crossover. However, the NX offers a bolder look with innovative LED headlamps and daytime running lights flanking the spindle grille. To the rear are L-shaped combination lamps, complementing the front fascia’s lighting layout.

The crossover’s muscular stance benefits from flared wheel wells, sculpted profile characteristics and a slightly raised roofline to accommodate rear passengers. The new model seats five and features standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive.

Human Machine Interface

Inside, Lexus promises a combination of “hard metallic surfaces and contrasting soft materials” for a unique interior. The center instrument panel is bordered by a pronounced silver frame with knee pads positioned at the bottom of the center stack to support the driver and front passenger. Also at the bottom of the stack is a “Human Machine Interface (HMI),” representing new remote touch technology.

Lexus says that the NX’s driver seat features a low hip point to better connect the driver with the vehicle and to increase head room. The new model also has a long cargo area compartment. Amenities such as leather seating, advanced audio packages, and safety alerts including blind spot monitor will be offered.

Three Powertrain Choices

The 2015 Lexus NX will be offered with three powertrain choices including a normally aspirated 2.0-liter gasoline engine, a turbocharged version of the same, and a full hybrid model. In the US, only the turbo NX 200t and hybrid NX 300h will be sold.

Expect the Lexus NX to debut this fall with pricing near $32,000, matching what its competitors offer. The NX represents the fourth Lexus SUV, joining the RX ($40,795), GX ($49,085) and LX ($82,630). The hybrid version represents the sixth such model sold by Lexus, a market it continues to dominate.

Auto Trends will have more product details to offer including pricing when that information has been released by Lexus.

Lexus Brand Recognition

The Lexus brand continues to enjoy accolades, winning the Most Trusted Luxury Brand for the Kelley Blue Book Brand Image Awards for the second straight year in 2014. That award is based upon KBB’s Brand Watch, what gauges brand and model perception of more than 12,000 new vehicle shoppers on its website.

In Feb., J.D. Power & Associates also recognized Lexus as the most dependable brand in the 2014 Vehicle Dependability Study for the third consecutive year. Four models — ES, GS, LS and RX — received dependability awards this year. Its flagship LS sedan was the most dependable of all models surveyed, tying the Cadillac DTS for that honor.

Photos courtesy of Lexus.