What’s new?

This will be the first Lexus model to be fitted with the e-latch electronic door release system, which replaces the internal door handle with a push-button switch in the door panel. It will feature the Lexus’s Tazuna cockpit design.

Exterior:

The F Sport models, which is the top model in the NX range, emphasise the sheer aggressiveness and symphonic design on the new Lexus NX. At the front, it has a new grille design with dark chrome details to give it a sportier look. Almost 95 percent of all the parts on the body are new. The NX is available in eight colours, and the F Sport is available with two exclusive colours.

It sits on 20-inch gloss black alloy wheels, which form part of the styling package on the Lexus NX F Sport. This Package includes three projector bi-beam LED headlamps as well as restyled front and rear bumper designs with larger side vents on the front bumper.

Interior:

The interior is race-inspired from the sport seats straight to the LFA-inspired instrument cluster. The F-Sport has unique trim finishes on the upholstery, alloy pedals, as well as a perforated leather steering wheel and gear shifter.

Technology:

The new NX features a voice assistant from a new Lexus multimedia platform. The voice assistant responds to natural voice commands making it possible to have a conversation with the car. It has a 14-inch digital display with high definition.

Performance:

The new NX is paired with two electric motors and a new lithium-ion battery pack. Lexus is making good on its promise for its models to be as carbon neutral as possible.

As a hybrid, it is also powered by 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with a combined output of 179 kW. Alternatively, the engine in the NX 350h F Sport packs a bigger punch with a 2.4-litre, four-cylinder engine pushing out 205 kW and 430 Nm of torque. The entry-level 2.5 is exclusive to the EX-range, whilst the 2.4 Turbo is available in the F Sport.

The NX range destined for South Africa will come standard with the motor-driven AWD E-Four system incorporated in the rear axle. The system improves the torque delivery on the rear wheels, giving it thrusting performance off the line.

Pricing:

Lexus NX 250 EX (R968 000), Lexus NX 350h EX (R1 000 100), Lexus NX 350h SE (R1 172 900), Lexus NX 350h F SPORT (R1 200 800) and the Lexus NX 350 F SPORT (R1 211 900).

All models are currently available at local dealers.