LATEST MAGAZINES...
ON SALES NOW!!
Lexus is promising sharper handling, improved ride, and additional safety equipment in its 2018 NX compact crossover SUV range. There’s also a new all-wheel drive electric hybrid entry-level model that replaces the currently-available front-wheel drive in the seven-model line-up.
Lexus designers have re-styled the NX’s grille and the front bumper to blend more fluidly into the bonnet and front guards. New bi-beam LED headlights are fitted to the entry level NX. The F Sport and Limited models get three low-beam LEDs and an individual LED for the new adaptive high-beam system. They also have sequential turn indicators.
The rear bumper has been broadened to enhance the low centre of gravity look and wide stance. The elongated tail-lights emphasise the L shape and the non-hybrid NX gains larger chrome exhaust tips which are integrated into the lower bumper.
New 18-inch alloy wheels for the Limited model complete the NX redesign.
NX 200t models will now carry NX 300 badging to align with Lexus’s new naming system for its 2.0 litre turbocharged petrol models.
The same turbocharged 175kW/350Nm four-cylinder 2.0-litre engine is retained, driving the NX 300 through a six-speed automatic gearbox. There are four NX 300 models in the range, starting with an entry front-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive entry-level, F Sport and Limited versions.
The three all-wheel drive electric hybrid models, the entry-level, F Sport and Limited, are powered by a 2.5 litre petrol engine, and electric motors mated to an electronically-controlled continuously-variable transmission CVT).
The hybrid powertrain provides 145kW of maximum power and 210Nm of peak torque, and Lexus says the 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle engine is capable of 5.7 litres/100km fuel economy on the combined cycle.
Lexus has added a custom drive mode to the F Sport which allows customisation of the powertrain, steering, air-conditioning, and suspension settings.
For more dynamic handling, the adaptable variable suspension now has continuously variable control, featuring 650 levels of damping that can adapt automatically to changing conditions.
On all NX models, the suspension has been revised to improve turn-in steering response in corners, and refine further the NX’s smooth ride.
Lexus Safety System Plus becomes standard across the range and includes autonomous emergency braking, lane departure alert with steering assist and vehicle sway warning.
There are also all-speed dynamic radar cruise control, and an automatic high beam system (adaptive high beam system for F Sport and Limited).
Blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert have been added to the entry level models and trailer sway control is standard across the range...
