Description
Lexus expanded its crossover lineup in 2014 when it introduced its compact NX as a hybrid high-rider vehicle made mostly for street use but capable enough to tackle some light off-road situations.
The Japanese premium automaker already had several SUVs in its lineup, but it needed something more affordable and perfectly adapted to the urban environment. While the RX was already known but too big to fit in smaller parking spots, a smaller vehicle was needed. So, Lexus made the NX. Its initials stood for "Nimble Crossover," and that's what Lexus tried to offer. A vehicle that provided better fuel efficiency and a similar level of comfort as its bigger sibling. But even if it was smaller, it was large enough to fit four people inside and carry enough luggage in its trunk.
On the outside, the NX followed the same aesthetic language as the facelifted version of the RX's third generation. At the front, it featured a tall spindle grille flanked by angular-shaped, narrow headlights. The lower bumper was adorned with a set of side scoops and a lower lip spoiler. From its profile, the hatchback shape of the vehicle showed a raked windshield, and a curved greenhouse ended in a raked-forward tailgate. Lexus added a roof spoiler at the back to further emphasize the car's sporty character. The automaker offered the crossover with a set of 17" light alloy wheels, and the wheel arches were adorned with black plastic trims.
Inside, the automaker tried to provide everything a premium customer wanted from a vehicle. As a result, the leather upholstery was on the menu, but the entry trim level featured fabric upholstery, depending on the market. Between the high-mounted front seats, the automaker installed a center console that housed the touchpad for the infotainment system. The driver fronted an instrument cluster filled with two large dials for the speedometer and tachometer and flanked by the fuel and temperature gauges. In the middle, Lexus installed a small color display for additional info provided by the onboard computer. On top of the center stack, in a free-floating position, the NX featured a 6.2" screen for the infotainment system. In the back, the automaker installed a flat bench fit for three adults, with a very small bump on the floor for the center tunnel.
Toyota chose two engine versions to power the compact-sized premium crossover. The base version featured a two-liter turbocharged inline-four that drove the front wheels only via a six-speed automatic transmission. In addition, an all-wheel-drive version was available. For those looking for cleaner emissions, Lexus offered a hybrid model powered by a 2.5-liter gasoline engine that ran in the Atkinson cycle paired with an eCVT gearbox that sent power to the front or in all corners, depending on the options.
