All-new Lexus NX arrives with hybrid, turbo power

MANILA: Lexus Philippines has launched its all-new NX, which come in a turbocharged NX 350 F Sport variant and hybrid-powered NX 350h guises. 

The NX 350 F Sport (P4.548 million) features a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder turbocharged engine, which sends 279hp and 430Nm of torque to an all-wheel drive system. Lexus said the NX 350 F Sport's eight-speed automatic gearbox has been "optimized for the turbocharged engine, which can generate high torque from low
rpm." 

Lexus added that the engine is a "newly developed one," sporting a "close placement of the turbocharger and catalyst" to meet emissions regulations. The NX's turbo engine is also derived from the carmaker's "high-speed combustion" system of its New Global Architecture. 

For the hybrid NX models the NX 350h (P3.338 million) and NX 350h Premier (P4.488 million), these are powered by a 2.5-liter inline-four engines that are mated to electric motors. The gasoline engine develops 190hp and 239Nm of torque, while the front and rear motor motors add 182hp and 54hp, respectively. 

A "balance of acceleration and fuel consumption" will be provided by the NX 350h cars, Lexus claimed. 

In terms of features, the NX 350h Premier comes with niceties such as electric folding rear seats, 17-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound system, and a power rear tailgate with a kick sensor. 

Outside, the all-new NX is longer, wider, taller, and has a longer wheelbase than its previous generation. The carmaker said this size growth results in the NX's "more commanding presence" and "more space in the cabin for rear-seat passengers." 

The signature Lexus Spindle Grille is "rendered more upright and with a subtler frame," so to blend well with the long hood and body flares that flow to the rear end. The grille's cooling performance is also improved by its upright position. 

Distinctive new styling features in the NX's rear end include L-shaped rear combination lights that span the width of the vehicle. Instead of the old oval Lexus emblem, the all-new NX  simply wears the "LEXUS" name on the tailgate to create "a simple and more
modern look."

The new design features of the all-new NX continues inside, which marks the first application of the brand's new Tazuna concept for the driver’s cockpit design. 

Inspired by the "Japanese word describing a rider’s control of their horse using the reins," the all-new NX now groups all relevant controls together and brings them closer to the driver. These controls include the multimedia screen, information display, central gauges, the starter button, shift lever, and air-conditioning controls. 

The NX 350 F Sport and NX 350h models come equipped with the Lexus Safety Sense (LSS) suite of advanced safety features. LSS includes Pre-Collision System (PCS), Adaptive High Beam System
(AHS), Automatic High Beam System (AHB); Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC).

Photos from Lexus Philippines

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