– Lexus to unveil all-new compact crossover NX at Beijing Motor Show
– Lexus entry in Luxury Compact Crossover segment
– Introduced as “Premium Urban Sports Gear”
– Edgy and striking design
– NX to offer three powertrains*: full hybrid NX 300h,
turbo petrol NX 200t and naturally aspirated NX 200
Lexus has released the first details of its all-new, sharply styled luxury compact crossover ahead of its unveiling at the 2014 Beijing International Auto Show.
Conceived under the development concept of “Premium Urban Sports Gear”, all-new NX* combines striking design with advanced technologies.
Lexus Australia Chief Executive Sean Hanley said that the NX presents an exciting opportunity for the luxury marque.
“Lexus Australia is very eager to secure the NX SUV and we believe it would complement our existing SUV line-up, providing a gateway vehicle to other SUVs and our expansive hybrid vehicle range,” Mr Hanley said.
“We are now negotiating with Lexus in Japan and expect a decision to be made very soon – it’s a very exciting time for us.”
Exterior design
The NX has been designed to embody an aggressive form combined with segment-leading functionality.
From the spindle grille back, the NX appears to have been chiselled from a single piece of steel – with wide flared guards housing 17 or 18-inch wheels that add to the overall muscular stance of the vehicle.
Innovative LED headlamps and separate daytime running lamps flank the spindle grille and firmly express Lexus’ bold corporate styling.
The side profile is accentuated by a roofline peak set towards the back of the vehicle to provide ample head-room for rear seat occupants while creating a tight silhouette.
An innovative outer mirror and a world-first door handle mechanism (with a hidden key barrel and integrated lighting) add to the luxury appearance.
The rear is punctuated by Lexus’ signature ‘L’ shaped combination lamps, each with seamless LED lighting, while the bodywork echoes the spindle grille design at the front.
Interior design
The interior of the NX brings a sense of excitement to the cabin atmosphere that directly evokes a feeling of “Premium Urban Sports Gear”.
The core idea was to combine the structural beauty of a high-performance machine with a material feel that maximises functionality.
A silver frame flags the instrument panel and symbolises the strength of the crossover vehicle, while knee pads located on both sides of the centre console firmly support the driver and passenger.
The intuitive interaction with human machine interface (HMI) technology is located between the knee pads and creates an air of innovation within the cabin.
The NX builds on Lexus’ unique display and operation zone concept.
Interior space played a significant role in the cabin design, and seating was a major focus.
The NX features the lowest hip point in the segment, adding to the connection of the driver to the vehicle and increasing overall head room.
NX also boasts the longest luggage load length of its competitors and offers generous front-to-rear couple distance.
Technology
Available in selected markets globally, the all-new NX offers the choice of up to three drivetrains*: a highly efficient hybrid in NX 300h, an innovative all-new 2.0-litre gasoline turbo in NX 200t and a naturally aspirated engine in NX 200 with the choice of front and all-wheel drive.
In addition, Lexus’ first Stop and Start system for a petrol drivetrain is available, providing additional fuel savings.
NX will also offer an array of innovative on-board technology*, including a Lexus-first Wireless Charging Tray to enable charging of portable devices, the first application of a new Lexus Remote Touch Interface with a touch-pad, Panoramic View Monitor and a comprehensive Multi-information Display (including a Lexus-first G sensor and boost meter), Heads-Up Display, All-speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
Chief engineer Takeaki Kato said the NX was developed as a vehicle that suits an urban lifestyle.
“Much like high quality sports watches, bikes and fashion, the NX represents the ultimate in premium urban sports gear,” he said.
“Throughout all development phases we were determined to approach the NX from the perspective of young, urban, luxury drivers.”
The all-new NX will be unveiled at the 2014 Beijing Auto Show on April 20.
Alan Zurvas is the founder and editor of Gay Car Boys, Australia's leading LGBTQI+ automotive publication. Before launching GCB in 2008, Alan's automotive writing was published in SameSame.com.au and the Star Observer. With over 16 years of hands-on car reviewing experience, Alan brings an honest, irreverent voice to every review — championing value and innovation over brand loyalty.
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