Since its first introduction back in 2014, the Lexus NX hasn’t become a quite popular choice in the SUV world. This is mainly due to the fact that the model is brand new and really haven’t had the time to show its full potential to the wider range of people. The model introduced in 2014 was sold as a 2015-year model and it brought many new things to the SUV world. The 2016 Lexus NX may or may not improve its position on the market, but, nevertheless, it is still an amazing SUV and a true competitor to the furious German cars. The model will feature three different trim levels – the NX 200t, the NX 300h and the NX 200t F Sport. Let’s see what each has to offer.
2016 Lexus NX Engine and Performance
Both the NX 200t and the 200t F Sport will share the same power unit under their hoods. It would be a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, capable of producing as much as 235 horsepower and a maximum of 258 pound-feet of torque.
A pretty good result for a four-cylinder engine. It is unfortunate that the F Sport won’t have a more powerful unit, but other improvements do make up for it, as it is more fun to drive, especially when set to “Sport” driving mode. The engines in both trim levels will be paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission system and both levels will offer optional AWD, beside the standard FWD.
As far as the fuel consumption is concerned, the new NX 200t and 200t F Sport will be able to cover 22 miles per gallon in the city, 28 miles on the highway, with a combined mileage of 25 mpg. The AWD option slightly degrades the result, making it 24 mpg for the combined mileage. The new NX 300h will have a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, backed up by two electric motors. Total combined power output is 194 horsepower. Electric motors are powered via Ni-MH battery pack.
The 300h will have a different transmission, compared to the previous two trims and it will be an Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission, or ECVT. Fuel economy will be vastly improved, as the numbers are 35/31/33 mpg for the FWD, in the city, highway and combined, respectively. The AWD’s numbers are a bit lower – 33/30/32 mpg in the city, on the highway and combined, respectively.
Price and Release Date
Although not yet 100% confirmed, the model is scheduled for release in the first half of 2016. As far as the prices are concerned, they will not deviate much and it is safe to assume that the starting price point for the NX 200t will be around $35,000, while the 200t F Sport will cost a bit more – $37,000. As expected, the hybrid variant will be the most expensive and will cost around $40,000 for the base model.
Design and Features
The overall design of the model is stunning. The X-shaped front grille and boomerang-like LED headlights are a really good fit together, making the model look really aggressive and powerful. On the inside, things are great, as well. 7-inch LCD screen with infotainment system takes the most of the space on the central console.
Other standard features are – keyless start/stop system cruise control, two-zone automatic air conditioning, telescopic steering wheel, auto-dimming mirror, rearview camera, 8-speaker audio system and much more. The F Sport will feature a more aggressive grille, sports seats, unique interior trim and retuned suspension.
Read more info: http://www.lexus.com/models/NX
2016 Lexus NX
Summary
The overall design of the model is stunning. The X-shaped front grille and boomerang-like LED headlights are a really good fit together, making the model look really aggressive and powerful. On the inside, things are great, as well. 7-inch LCD screen with infotainment system takes the most of the space on the central console.
Price: $35,000
