Lexus just unveiled its new compact crossover, the 2015 Lexus NX, at the Beijing auto show, and now the company has released more details about the turbocharged NX 200t and hybrid NX 300h models that will be coming to the U.S. this fall.
Both the Lexus NX 200t and NX 300h will be offered with either front- or all-wheel drive. The NX 200t’s new turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which mates with a standard six-speed automatic, will make 235 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Those numbers are competitive with other compact luxury crossovers like the BMW X1 and Audi Q5, which also use 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinders.
The hybrid model will use the same 2.5-liter, Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine and electric motor combination that’s found in other Lexus and Toyota models like the Lexus ES 300h and Toyota Camry Hybrid. Its 194-hp total system power output and standard continuously variable transmission won’t make for quick acceleration, but we would expect fuel economy in the mid-30s for this model.
With an overall length of 182.3 inches and a wheelbase of 104.7 in, the 2015 Lexus NX is about six inches shorter than the Lexus RX crossover and has a two inch shorter wheelbase. This makes the NX slightly larger than the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLK, but slightly smaller than the Audi Q5 and Acura RDX.
There will be a sport-oriented F Sport model of the 2015 Lexus NX 200t with a special mesh grille design, different wheels, black exterior accents, paddle shifters, and sport seats. In the Russian and Chinese markets, Lexus will also offer a naturally aspirated version of this crossover called the Lexus NX 200.
Stay tuned for more information including pricing and fuel economy as we get closer to the 2015 Lexus NX’s U.S. launch later this year.
