One of the fastest growing segments in the automotive industry continues to be compact crossover vehicles. Offering compact size with functional space and work well for city and urban living alike. Some people felt Lexus was a bit slow to bring their offering to the table, however, since it was introduced back in 2015 the Lexus NX has been selling very well. In fact, is the second best selling vehicle for Lexus Canada family, next to RX. With it being so successful, it makes sense that only three years into this vehicles introduction, Lexus has made some updates. I am excited to take the 2018 Lexus NX for a drive around beautiful Penticton, BC
If you want to get noticed, this NX will do that for you. The styling is definitely unique, however, it might be too much for some. Personally, I really like it ! The spindle grille is the common feature that is seen across the entire Lexus line up and it is now flanked by air intakes for enhanced engine and brake cooling.. The f-sport which makes up just under 50% of nx sales – offers an even more aggressive appearance.
Seats are so soft, and so are the leather wrapped heated steering wheel and shift knob. The attention to detail is impressive Lexus interiors are always top notch and this NX is no exception.
Inside, the tweaks for 2018 are subtle. There are a few new trim pieces throughout the cabinas well as a larger touchpad controlling the infotainment. Lexus has added more of more powerful USB ports to speed up phone charging time as well as a larger sized tray for wireless charging of bigger smart phones. Now available features include heated rear seats, panoramic sunroof and kick sensors on power back door. LEXUS Enform system is new for 2018 – gives you yelp, slacker radio, NPR one and sports app. This is lexus own system to replace andriod auto and apple car play.
The same engine has been carried over from precision NX. lexus’ 2.0 Litre 4-Cylinder direct injection Turbo-charged engine with 235h paired to a smooth shifting k6-sp automatic. This is still not as much power as the competitors but more than enough to move this little SUV around very quickly.
AWD, traction control, vehicle stability control, and hill start assist are all features that work together to give the driver optimum control in all type of driving conditions. Lexus Safetey system plus is standard and includes dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, pre collision system with pedestrian assist and auto HIgh beam.
The interior is exceptionally quiet. The 2018 NX has new shock absorbers, a ne version of adaptive variable suspension and the steering is sharper. Thanks to these small changes the overall ride much more enjoyable.
And of course, don’t forget about the hybrid version. I was not able to get behind the wheel of the hybird on this event, however, the Lexus NX 300h delivers exceptional fuel efficiency and is rated at 7.5L/100kn in combined city and highway driving. The CVT keeps you in the optimum power range at all times and Regenerative braking captures excess energy from applying brake pressure to recharge the battery. Pricing starts are just over $44000 for the base gasoline model, $51000 for the NX300 f sport and and $55300 for the 300h hybrid.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and on the unique and aggressive styling alone,this is NX would be towards the top of my list. Of course, impeccable looking fit and finish, sporty feeling luxurious drive and competitive pricing makes Lexus NX beautiful in more ways than one.
