The Lexus NX crossover was engineered and designed to please not only the most discerning driving enthusiasts but also those who are looking for a comfortable and practical vehicle that can do it all. It seems like a tall order, but Lexus has the know-how and experience when it comes to building capable crossovers that deliver an engaging on-road driving experience, and still have the capability to tackle more challenging terrain.
Knowing that you have a competent vehicle for when the need arises is an empowering feeling. This sense of security builds driver confidence. If the weather turns for the worse without any warning, or if road conditions degrade to less than ideal, then having a vehicle that is more than up to the task of getting you to your destination without any drama is indeed an asset. Enter the Lexus NX.
The Lexus NX is available in three variants: The NX 300h hybrid (Php 3,678,000); NX 300 F Sport (Php 3,708,000); and NX 300 (Php 3,208,000). Each puts the pilot in full control thanks to its advanced driver technologies, all while offering fantastic styling and the remarkable build quality that Lexus is famous for. The NX has been crafted to an extremely high level by its Takumi masters. One only has to look at the finer details to notice that the NX is constructed in a way that sets the benchmark in the luxury crossover segment.
Under the hood of the NX 300 and NX 300 F Sport is a powerful and fuel-efficient turbocharged direct-injection 2.0- liter inline-4. Power is rated at 235hp, with an impressive 350Nm of torque. Its twin-scroll turbocharger is a single turbo with two separate exhaust paths, ensuring air travels in a more direct feed to the turbo. Also fitted to this athletic motor is an air-to-liquid intercooler which maintains a low intake temperature and helps combat power-robbing heat.
On the NX 300h hybrid is a 2.5-liter inline-4 combined with a pair of electric motors. The NX 300h offers 194 bhp supplemented by electric motors that result in instant torque and acceleration.
Power delivery is one thing, but where the NX shines is in its exceptional road-holding manners. The suspension has been tuned to enhance ride and handling. The springs, stabilizer bars and bushings have been tweaked for improved turn-in response and steady-state cornering. New shock absorbers also improve the quality of the NX’s already buttery-smooth ride.
But the biggest change is that Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) is now available on the NX F Sport variant. AVS–based on the advanced system found in the LC 500–offers enhanced control and overall handling stability. This is perfect for driving enthusiasts who enjoy hitting the open road and enjoying their vehicle’s capabilities.
Those who feel that your choice of car is a reflection of who you are will be pleased by the NX’s sculpted body lines and eye-catching design. The NX now shares similar design cues with the LC, namely its triple-projector headlamps. The iconic L-shaped DRLs make it easily identifiable as a Lexus, too. Satin and smoked chrome trim pieces now adorn the grille. At the rear, the lower rear bumper cover has elements of the grille’s spindle motif, and has been broadened to enhance the vehicle’s wide stance and low-center-of-gravity look. The NX’s revised taillights have been elongated, and the black garnish has been revised to better emphasize the “L”-shaped lenses.
The F-Sport variant uses an F-mesh grille pattern, with the same jet-black finish seen in the Lexus RC F. The F-Sport package also gives you exclusive front and rear bumpers. The NX has a sporty and aggressive compact SUV silhouette. You will also find 18-in aluminum alloy wheels in a dark premium metallic finish mounted with 225/60 R18 tires.
Premium Features
The interior of the NX has a sportier nature; a more luxurious feel; and enhanced control interfaces. The F-Sport and Hybrid variants feature a larger display on the center dashboard, which has grown from 7 inches to 10.3 inches. Nearly all the controls and switches inside the NX, including the drive mode selector, shift knob and door handles, now have a metallic satin finish, enhancing the premium look and feel of the cabin.
On the center console, the remote touch interface pad has been enlarged and redesigned for easier operation, and the palm rest has been reshaped for maximum wrist comfort. The wireless charger tray has also grown in size to accommodate larger smartphones. In addition, the USB ports have been more optimally positioned in the center console, and their amperage has been increased for faster charging.
On the safety front, collision impact is greatly reduced with eight sensor-controlled SRS airbags lining the cabin, providing enhanced protection for all occupants. Wide-angle lights provide you with additional illumination when taking corners and in low-visibility areas as well.
Lastly, but not the least, a foot-operated rear hatch that can be used when the user’s hands or arms are full, such as when carrying goods. Placing or kicking up one of your feet toward a sensor beneath the rear-bumper cover opens or closes the electrically-actuated rear hatch. For the NX owner who leads an active lifestyle, convenience features like this are a must.
Look closely at the needlework of the NX 300’s leather surfaces. You will see that it is stitched perfectly straight. These intricate patterns can only be created with the help of hand-operated machinery equipped with special needles that are resistant to overheating and thread breakage. This is Takumi craftsmanship. Its acute attention to detail that elevates the entire construction of a Lexus. This kind of artisanal execution can only draw from a deep desire to please the customer.
