Compact Luxury & Utility: 2016 Lexus NX SUV
Lexus created the luxury-utility crossover category with the original midsized RX model in 1998 and has disrupted the growing compact segment with the all-new NX introduced last year. Inspired by performance vehicles, the NX unites the engineering input of racers with the impeccable touch of Lexus luxury in a design that steals the show.
Following in the tire tracks of the new-generation Lexus GS and IS sedans, the NX brings dramatic design to a segment populated by boxy offerings. The boldest interpretation yet of the signature Lexus spindle grille and L-finesse design envelops a platform engineered by a team that includes active racers.
Offered in NX 200t and NX 300h models, Lexus also offers a NX F Sport equipment package. The available NX F SPORT looks a bit sinister with its more aggressive grille and front lower bumper. Special wheels, black exterior mirrors and exclusive interior trim and front sport seats round out this optional equipment package.
Power for the 200t is generated by a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder gasoline engine. Torque is communicated to the street through a six-speed multi-mode automatic transmission with intelligence (ECT-i). The base power for the 300h hybrid is provided by a 2.5L four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine. Torque from the hybrid powertrain is communicated to the pavement through a new P314 transmission that consists of an electric motor generator and an electric drive motor linked by a double set of planetary gears. The planetary gearset simultaneously fulfills three roles: as a power split device between the generator and the front wheels; as a reduction gear for the electric motor and, when both work together, as an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT). This transmission setup also features a kick-down switch in which, as in conventional vehicles, ensures maximum power is delivered when required.
The hybrid battery pack is split into two modules, each weighing 44 lbs. and located on each side of the rear seat, improving space efficiency and also center of gravity for enhanced car control. The battery pack is one of the lightest among Lexus hybrids. Package efficiency improvements include downsizing the Power Control Unit (PCU) with a double-sided inverter cooling system. The PCU inverter boosts direct current (DC) voltage from the HV battery and converts it to alternating current (AC) to drive the electric traction motor and, where applicable, the rear-drive E-Four electric motor. It also converts AC from the generator to DC for storage in the hybrid battery.
The PCU also includes a DC-DC converter to provide 12-volt power for vehicle ancillaries, including the lights and audio system. The DC-DC converter saves fuel, because the gasoline engine does not have to drive a separate alternator.
Both NX models offer their own version of pro-active all-weather drive (AWD).
In the NX 200t, the available Dynamic Torque Control AWD system can instantly vary front and rear torque split between 50:50 and 100:0 for optimum traction and fuel economy. The NX 300h hybrid offers the Lexus E-Four AWD system with an electric motor to drive the rear axle when required.
In both models a pre-loaded front differential (and yaw rate feedback control on AWD versions) ensures optimum grip, control and agility. The differential uses a plate spring between the side gear and side-gear washer to add pre-load, which limits torque split between the front wheels. Under light loads, and when there is a low speed difference between the left and right wheels during cornering, the pre-loaded differential ensures straight-line stability and acceleration performance. At higher speeds, it operates as an open differential.
Control hardware for the Lexus NX consists of a MacPherson strut front suspension with high-rigidity components and low-friction moving parts. A newly designed trailing arm double wishbone rear suspension separates the coil springs and dampers to optimize agility, stability and ride comfort while also providing an unusually low floor for an SUV. Specially reinforced suspension components help to minimize the shake and shudder caused by lateral loads that change the tread width of a tire as the wheel reacts to an undulation.
Inside the passenger cabin of the NX is like stepping into a sports car. The cabin design combines structural elements with luxurious yet functional materials and textures. The center console is the undeniable focal point, framed by bold silver-colored architectural elements and featuring kneepads on both sides. Leather-wrapped metal over high contrast metallic colors provides visual depth. The NX dashboard and console continue the Lexus concept of display and operational zones.
The seats, inspired by sports car design, coddle driver and passenger as you’d expect from a Lexus. All-season comfort and viewing pleasure are a given in a Lexus luxury utility vehicle (LUV). The NX offers available heated or heated and ventilated front seats. Standard dual-zone automatic climate control offers an available fuel-saving S-Flow mode that detects a front passenger and directs airflow only to the occupied front seat or seats.
Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 104.7; overall length: 182.3; width: 73.6; height: 64.8
All vehicle measurements are in inches.
Engine: 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder – 235 hp at 4,800-5,600 rpm and 258 lbs-ft of torque at 1,650-4,000 rpm; 2.5L four-cylinder with Atkinson cycle – 154 hp at 5,700 rpm and 152 lbs-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm, Motor Generator 2 – 141 hp (105 kW), Motor Generator Rear – 67 hp (50 kW) and sealed nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack – 244.8V nominal voltage.
Transmission: six-speed automatic, CVT (continuously variable transmission) automatic
EPA Fuel Economy: NX 200t – 22 city/28 hwy (AWD), 22 city/28 hwy. (FWD) 22 city/27 hwy. (AWD F SPORT); NX 300h – 33 city/30 hwy. (AWD), 35 city/31 hwy. (FWD).
Cargo capacity: 54.6 cubic feet (NX 200t); 53.7 cubic feet (NX 300h)
Towing capacity: 2,000 lbs. (NX 200t); 1,500 lbs (NX 300h)
Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags, drivers knee airbag, front passenger cushion airbag, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, traction control, vehicle stability control, LED daytime running lights, LED headlamps (low beam), side-impact door beams, vehicle theft-deterrent system, back-up camera, Lexus Enform Safety Connect, remote keyless entry, fog lamps, automatic headlamps, SmartAccess key system, Bluetooth hands free phone system, and tire-specific monitoring system. NX 300h adds LED headlamps, navigation system, speed limit display, and vehicle proximity notification system.
Optional safety features include: blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert, intuitive park assist, lane departure alert, pre-collision system with all-speed dynamic radar cruise control, and rain sensing windshield wipers.
Warranty
Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile
Powertrain: 6-year/70,000 mile
Corrosion: 6-year/unlimited
Roadside Assistance: 4-year/unlimited 24-hour
Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2016 Lexus NX SUV starts from $34,965 for the NX 200t FWD upto $41,310 for the NX 300h AWD. Destination charges add $975.
