New for 2015
The NX is a completely new model that slots into the Lexus lineup below the larger RX.
Turbocharged Fun
For years, the Lexus RX has been one of the top luxury crossovers, but the segment is growing or, perhaps more accurately, shrinking. Smaller crossovers are the big thing now, leading Lexus to launch the all-new NX for 2015.
With its razor-sharp styling, the NX is hard to miss in even the most crowded of parking lots. With hybrid and turbocharged four-cylinder powertrains and the latest tech, though, it’s much more than a pretty face.
Powertrains and Performance
The 2015 Lexus NX launches with two powertrains that should satisfy both fuel misers and wannabe racers.
One side of the coin is the NX 300h hybrid, which features a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine and CVT automatic transmission with an electric motor and nickel-metal hydride battery pack. It’s available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
The hybrid powertrain musters a total system output of 194 horsepower, getting the NX 300h to 60 mph from a standstill in 9.1 seconds, and on to an (electronically limited) top speed of 112 mph. EPA fuel economy ratings are 33 mpg combined (35 mpg city, 31 mpg highway) with front-wheel drive,* and 32 mpg combined (33 mpg city, 30 mpg highway) with all-wheel drive.*
There’s also the NX 200t, with Lexus’ first ever turbocharged engine. This 2.0-liter, four-cylinder unit produces 235 hp and 258 pound-feet of torque, and is mated to a six-speed automatic with standard front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive. There’s also an F Sport model with some performance upgrades like sport-tuned suspension and paddle shifters.
The front-wheel drive NX 200t does 0 to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, while the all-wheel drive model does it in 7 seconds flat. Both versions are electronically limited to 124 mph.
The small-displacement engine is also fairly fuel efficient, with gas-mileage ratings of 25 mpg combined (22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway) with front-wheel drive,* and 24 mpg combined (22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway) with all-wheel drive.* The all-wheel drive-only F Sport model loses 1 mpg in the highway category.
Features and Trims
The 2015 Lexus NX is only available as a five-door, five-seat crossover, with a base price of $34,480** for the NX 200t, and $39,720** for the NX 300h hybrid.
With either powertrain, standard equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels, auto on/off headlights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, 10-way adjustable driver’s seat, eight-speaker audio system, and Bluetooth® (Siri Eyes Free voice control is also available for iPhone® users).
Available only on the NX 200t with all-wheel drive, the F Sport adds model-specific 18-inch alloy wheels, heated seats, aluminum pedals, the aforementioned paddle shifters and sport-tuned suspension, and other goodies.
There’s a long list of options available as well, including a moonroof, heated steering wheel, and a navigation system, which is bundled with the Lexus Enform® App Suite, Lexus Enform® Remote, and Lexus Enform® Destination Services information and connectivity services.
Exterior/Interior
The 2015 Lexus NX is no wallflower. It stands out from the crossover crowd with a dynamic styling theme shared with other recent Lexus models.
Key exterior features include the “spindle” grille and daytime running light slashes below the headlights. At the back there are wraparound taillights, and Lexus took special care to keep the panel gaps between the tailgate and the body extra tight for maximum smoothness.
Unlike the traditionally upright SUV profile, the NX has a steeply-raked windshield and low roofline. Yet rear visibility and interior space aren’t adversely affected by this emphasis on style.
The interior features a clean, modern design with a stepped dashboard topped by a seven-inch screen, 4.2-inch multi-information display nestled between the gauges, and even an optional wireless cellphone charging pad. Lexus’ new Remote Touchpad infotainment controller also offers a tablet-like interface.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2015 Lexus NX includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, and front, front-side, driver’s knee, and side-curtain airbags. Park assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a pre-collision system with adaptive radar cruise control are available as options.
Bottom Line
With a strong emphasis on style and technology, the 2015 Lexus NX makes for a strong entry into the burgeoning small crossover segment. It has all of the refinement of the larger RX, but a sportier attitude for buyers who want a practical vehicle that isn’t boring.
Come experience the all-new Lexus NX for yourself. Simply contact or stop by 3Birds Template to schedule a test drive. You won’t regret it.
*2015 EPA-estimated ratings. Actual mileage will vary.
**Prices for options / accessories / packages are Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) as of posting date.
Image: Lexus
