The Lexus NX is a compact luxurycrossover SUV sold by Lexus, a luxury division of Toyota. It was introduced in late 2014 as an all-new, entry-level crossover model in Lexus' lineup, slotted below the mid-size RX crossover. The name "NX" stands for "Nimble Crossover".
First generation (AZ10; 2014)
Overview
The NX was revealed at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition on 20 April 2014. The NX shares a small portion of parts with the Toyota RAV4 primarily related to the structure and wheelbase, while the styling, suspension parts, some engines, interior, and level of luxury and craftsmanship are unique to the Lexus. Lexus NX variants sold in the United States feature slightly altered fascias, which facilitate higher departure angles. US sales began in November 2014. Production commenced on 8 August 2014 at the Miyata plant in Miyawaka, Fukuoka.
Powertrain
The Lexus NX is available with various powertrains. In the US, it comes in NX 200t and NX 300h trims: The Lexus NX 200t/300 features the newly developed 8AR-FTS 2.0L turbocharged inline four cylinder direct injection engine that can run on both Otto and Atkinson cycles. The 8AR-FTS engine has Lexus’ ESTEC D-4ST fuel injection. With separate twin injectors for both direct and port injection, ESTEC D-4ST could perform high-pressure direct injection into the cylinder and conventional intake port injection, or direct cylinder injection only, according to engine speed. Mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, this engine produces at 4,800-5,600 rpm and at 1,650-4,000 rpm. The NX is the first Lexus vehicle to feature a turbocharged gasoline engine in the US market and many other markets around the globe. The Lexus NX 300h hybrid comes powered by a 2.5-liter inline-four 2AR-FXE engine mated to an electric motor and CVT that puts out a combined and is shared with the Toyota Camry Hybrid. In addition, a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine producing will be available in Russian markets.
Equipment
The Lexus NX is liberally equipped. Notable features include:
In its first full year of sales the NX sold over 43,000 units in the USA. It was also successful in Europe where it sold over 28,000 in its first full year of sales, of which more than 17,000 were hybrids. This made it Lexus's best selling model in Europe. Its success was also strong in Russia, where in its first full year of sales it was the best selling luxury vehicle.
