By Khulekani Dumisa

Lexus has taken covers off its latest NX SUV. As of the end of April 2021, the NX has sold a cumulative total of approximately 1 million units in more than 90 countries and regions, and Lexus is hoping to add to this tally with the latest model. If looks, tech and powertrains on offer are anything to go by, the task should not be too hard.

Exterior

Upfront, the new Lexus NX naturally adopts new looks that closely resemble those of the UX. The familiar Lexus spindle architecture has been deepened with a three-dimensional design that starts from the spindle grille and extends significantly toward the back fenders. The bonnet has been extended to the edge of the front end while the grille surface has been raised vertically to strengthen the front end’s mass. The grille pattern is a longitudinal U-shaped block with a three-dimensional effect, and a slit-like opening is provided at the bottom.

Toward the centre of the back door, the shape is narrowed in the motif of a spindle shape, and the back fenders are shaped to sandwich the spindle shape. For the rear combination lamps, an elongated light bar, located across the centre of the vehicle combines with the independently positioned L-shaped lamps on the left and right to enhance the unique design of the NX. The revised brand mark placed in the centre of the rear hatch, above the license plate symbolises the next generation of Lexus.

The exterior features highlights of the F-Sport model include special 20-inch alloy wheels, a spoiler on the lower bumper, and front-side garnishes.

Interior

For the interior, in addition to the newly-developed steering wheel, the front seats, aluminum pedals, and shift lever have been redesigned to assist in delivering a sporty performance. A new infotainment is adopted. Lexus says, the 14-inch touch display provides clear images, thanks to an anti-reflective coating applied to the windshield and the use of glare-reducing bonding technology.

The Lexus Premium Sound System consisting of 10 speakers is available as standard. For higher models, a Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System based on the Mark Levinson PurePlay concept is on offer.

Safety

The NX adopts the latest preventive safety technologies, as well as advanced convenience technologies, as part of the luxury brand’s human-centered approach. The Lexus-first e-latch system electronically controls the latching and unlatching of doors. This feature is combined with a Blind Spot Monitor to provide a “safe exit assist function (with control door opening), a world-first feature that helps to prevent accidents caused by door operation when the vehicle is stopped.

Powertrains

Available powertrains for the global market include the PHEV (not destined for SA), 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. 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.

Local availability

The all-new Lexus NX will be launched in South Africa early next year.