Car reviews
Lexus makes a statement
The Lexus NX was Lexus’ first foray into the compact premium SUV market. Featuring an angular design language, with strong body lines and prominent contouring – the NX certainly makes a statement. Underpinned by the iconic Lexus spindle grille, the NX is a prominent member in the Lexus family.
The NX300 F Sport, like its siblings, builds on the original model’s strong design language.The cosmetic enhancements have freshened up the exterior appearance without altering its sporty and dynamic demeanour.
All models receive front styling refinements with new headlamps, a bold new front grille utilising a chrome frame, altered side grille, bumper and lower bumper elements.
Power and efficiency
The EX and F Sport derivatives retain the all-wheel drive configuration and six-speed automatic transmission.The established 2.0l turbocharged ‘four-pot’ engine remains intact on NX300 variations, serving up 175kW with 350Nm on tap between 1 650 and 4 000rpm. The engine utilises a combination of port and direct injection, known as D-4ST, along with Variable Valve Timing Intelligent Wide to optimise combustion in the pursuit of both power and efficiency.The twin-scroll turbocharger delivers a wide-spread of torque assisting with effortless acceleration.
Lexus has refined the suspension of the NX SUV range to further improve stability, body control and ride comfort. Refinements include a new calibration for the rear stabiliser bar and stabiliser bar bushing, as well as new front dampers with reduced friction.
The Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) on F Sport models has been upgraded to the latest iteration, as debuted on the LC premium sports coupé.
Both traditional spring and damper (on E and EX) and Adaptive variable suspension systems are designed and calibrated to maximise dynamic performance and cabin space, including separate spring and damper units at the rear, for a lower centre of gravity and minimal intrusion into the rear cargo area.
F Sport models have a unique suspension calibration and alloy wheel design. Rear stabiliser-bar
stiffness on the refreshed NX has been increased to suppress roll angle and hence optimise vehicle turning posture.
Sporty appearance
In F Sport guise the NX packs an even greater visual punch.The spindle-grille ‘frame’ is finished off in a striking ‘black chrome’ effect which ties in with the dark ‘F-mesh’ grille.
The brushed-aluminium-effect lower apron runs the full length of the front and creates a sporty appearance and ties all the frontal design elements together. Graphite coloured vent trim on the edges of the bumper accentuate the powerful stance and F Sport identity.
In terms of function, the Drive Mode Select feature on F Sport models comprise Eco, Normal, Sport, Sport + and newly-added Custom modes. Sport + works alongside the AVS to increase dampening and allow for more dynamic handling.
The Custom mode allows drivers to personalise the powertrain, electric power steering, AVS and air conditioning settings. A key feature is the new 10.3-inch display audio screen with enhanced graphics and clarity employed on EX and F Sport models equipped with satellite navigation. The NX interior overhaul saw special attention paid to the centre cluster, with the climate control panel refreshed and the number of switches reduced for ease of operation.
In addition, the button design has been modernised and the analogue clock redesigned with increased contrast between the hands and background for ease of viewing.The clock is now linked to the GPS function so the time is set automatically.
Air-conditioning switches have been grouped according to operations, while the overall panel layout has been made cleaner by revising the size of the switches. Metal toggle switches have been adopted directly below the LCD temperature/air volume and direction displays for improved operability and enhanced aesthetics.
The usual comprehensive active safety systems are on-board and include ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist, Traction Control, Enhanced VSC, Hill-start Assist and Trailer Sway Control.The F Sport model also includes Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.