Lexus announced the world premiere of the all-new NX, the first model of Lexus’ next-generation range.
Based on the “Lexus Electrified” electrification vision, the new NX will be available as both HEV and―a Lexus first―PHEV.
Available powertrains include Lexus’ first PHEV, an HEV-equipped with high-capacity battery, a newly developed 2.4-litre inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine, and a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine―all with high thermal efficiency.
AWD
All-wheel drive (AWD) is available on models equipped with PHEV and 2.4-litre turbo powertrains, whilst both AWD and front-wheel drive (FWD) are available on the models equipped with HEV and 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated powertrains.
A newly-developed, electronically-controlled full-time AWD has also been adopted for the 2.4-litre turbocharged model.
The plug-in hybrid system used in the PHEV version of the NX is equipped with a thermally-efficient 2.5-liter inline-four engine, a high-capacity, high-output lithium-ion battery, and front and rear motors.
The lithium-ion battery has an impressive power output of 18.1 kWh, providing a class-leading EV range and power for daily driving.
The driver can alternate at will among four driving modes (EV mode, AUTO EV/HV mode, HV mode, and Self-charge mode) at the touch of a switch.
Seven choices
- 2.5-litre PHEV FF (A25A-FXS +THS II Plug-in)
- 2.5-litre PHEV e-FOUR (A25A-FXS + THS II Plug-in + Rear motor)
- 2.4-litre Turbocharged AWD (T24A-FTS + Direct Shift-8AT + Full-Time Electronic AWD)
- 2.5-litre AWD (A25A-FKS + Direct Shift-8AT + Electronic Control Standby AWD)
- 2.5-litre FF (A25A-FKS + Direct Shift-8AT)
- 2.5-litre AWD (A25A-FKS + Direct Shift-8AT + Electronic Control Standby AWD)
- 2.5-litre FF (A25A-FKS + Direct Shift-8AT)
The newly developed NX suspension uses MacPherson struts in the front and a trailing arm, double-wishbone design in the rear. The newly developed shock absorber maintains damping force at low speeds by careful design of high friction parts.
The F SPORT is equipped with the latest Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) as standard equipment to achieve both high levels of manoeuvrability and ride comfort.
Larger tyres
The front and rear tires have been enlarged from 225/60R18 inches to 235/50R20 inches, and the front and rear treads have been widened to enhance the NX’s dynamic image. In addition, by lowering the hip point of the rear seat, passenger head clearance has been increased to improve rear-seat occupant comfort.
The new NX uses the GA-K platform to achieve a lightweight, highly rigid body with a low centre of gravity to enable superior handling.
The basic performance of the vehicle has been greatly improved, and it inherits Lexus’ unique driving signature, which is faithful to the driver’s inputs with control surfaces tuned for a more linear response.
Exterior
On the exterior, the hood has been extended where it reaches the grille to help “lengthen” the front-end proportions forward of the A-pillar.
The model’s rear overhang has been shortened to create a sense of lightness. The straight beltline was shortened to emphasize the kick-up toward the rear, giving the cabin a condensed feel.
The chrome frame of the grille has also been eliminated to better express the NX’s proportions, while simplifying the assembly and reducing weight.
Interior
Inside, newly adopted is the Touch Tracer Operation, an operation method that combines the head-up display with touch sensor switches on the newly developed steering wheel.
With the adoption of a large touch display, many functions are integrated into the soft switches in the display. The shift lever is also newly developed for the shift-by-wire function.
Last but not least, 64 colours of interior illumination are used to accentuate the beauty of the interior shapes and materials, colouring the entire cockpit.
