To say the Lexus RX has been a critical component of the brand’s success would be a huge understatement.
But with the compact luxury-utility segment on fire right now, Lexus needed something
one notch down in size and price.And the all-new 2015 NX is their answer, available as a gas-electric
hybrid or like here as the NX 200t with the brand’s first turbo.
There’s no doubt; the NX is going to do very, very well for Lexus.
As the brand’s maturation continues from quiet, luxury carmaker to producer of stylish
products with more sizzle, the NX arrives at just the right time.
Compelling design, a modern and spacious interior and an assertive chassis blend to form a ride
that speaks to a younger audience.
It also helps that with an MSRP including shipping of $35,405 it’s the 2nd least expensive
model in the Lexus lineup, just above the CT Hybrid of which it shares some of its underpinnings.
And if it reminds you in any way of the Toyota RAV-4, it also shares some genes with it.
But lo and behold, the NX is its own crossover.
It took me some time to warm-up to this body, especially in my least favorite Lexus color,
Fire Agate Pearl, and if you only view it from the side, its profile can look quite
unflattering with its Cyrano de Bergerac-sized schnoz.
But from every other angle, the NX looks pretty darn amazing and really stands apart from
the yawn-inducing styling of its competitors, like the Acura RDX.
Not only is this the first turbocharged gas-powered Lexus, but it’s also the only non-hybrid
they sell with a 4-cylinder engine.
If you look under the hood of parent company’s Scion FR-S you’ll see some similarities
– same displacement, same bore, same Toyota fuel system – but the NX gets a boost from
a twin scroll turbocharger providing a smooth and energetic 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet
of torque.
Working that output is an all-new 6-speed automatic devised with an artificial intelligence
system to maximize spirited driving.
Gas mileage on premium is rated at 22mpg city/28mpg highway.
My tester is a front wheel drive model and with the turbo’s kick it can be difficult
to get the tires to dig in.
Which is why I’d give the AWD model a long hard look, especially where I live.
There’s an undeniable spirit of performance in this machine and as such the ride is fairly
stiff on these optional 18″ wheels.
These incredibly comfortable and supportive seats help take the edge off though.
Sized just right with a gotta’ go nature and attractive cabin, driving the NX is definitely
not just another trip to the grocery store.
For those in search of greater performance, an F SPORT model adds a host of mechanical
and aesthetic upgrades to satisfy.
Acceleration is lively here, particularly in Sport mode, producing a 0-to-60mph time
of 7.2 seconds.
Eco and normal mode can also be dialed in.
This NX is a prototype so production models may vary slightly, but this interior really
speaks to me in terms of its comfort, modern style and richness of features.
Optional equipment on this NX includes navigation, a pre-collision system, blind spot monitor
with rear cross traffic alert, intuitive parking assist and the Premium Package with heated
and ventilated front seats and moon roof.
Lexus has replaced the old mouse system with something they’re calling the Remote Touch
Interface or RTI.
It certainly has a more modern appearance but that doesn’t make it any easier to use.
Shockingly, Lexus didn’t take this opportunity to replace the 80s era sound effects used
in this system.
A host of free and subscription-based apps and services is available.
There are currently over 600 Xi compatible devices that you could wirelessly charge right
here in the NX.
The iPhone isn’t one of them so I can’t comment on its effectiveness.
If you add a special case, you can use this cord-free system with iPhone.
On the other hand, Siri Eyes Free Mode is here allowing drivers to safely connect with
their iPhone 4S or later.
Rear seat room with reclining seatbacks is almost as generous as that in the RX, just
don’t forget to duck your head with the low roofline while cargo space fits the bill.
The NX doesn’t provide remote levers for dropping the seats and has the slowest power
hatch ever but there is some underfloor storage.
Though exact pricing on this model isn’t available at press time, I’d guess you’re
looking at an NX priced in the low $40ks ; destined to be a bona fide hit for Lexus.