It’s hard to believe that the striking Lexus NX compact crossover is almost three years old. First seen in 2014, the premium Japanese crossover still looks fresh, thanks in no small part to the cutting-edge design elements that make it look like a concept car that went straight to the production floor.
Despite its worldwide success, Lexus is not about to rest on its laurels as it unveils a freshened up 2018 Lexus NX at the ongoing Auto Shanghai 2017. The facelifted NX retains the same overall profile, which is not necessarily a bad thing. As we mentioned, it is one of the best looking SUVs in the class. Lexus enhances the look with a stain and smoked spindle grille with vertical elements and touches that match the sleek haedlamps that flank it.
The flowing front end is matched by a spiffy set of 18-inch alloys, set in either bronze colored machine finish or a bright hue. The lok is complemented by a rear end with an elongated tailgate design, elongated tailpipes, and new bumper that echoes the spindle grille up front.
This being a Lexus, only the best materials and craftsmanship go into every detail. The leather upholstery, for instance, is carefully stitched by Takumi or Japanese craftsmen. Then there are the little details like the larger infotainment display, remote touchpad, and satin finish on controls like the drive mode selector knob. There then is the convenience of a foot-operated power tailage that makes it easier to open even when one’s hands are ful of grocery bags or the like.
|The 2018 Lexus NX will still be powered by either a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder or a 2.5-liter four with a pair of electric motors. The Lexus NX200t (which will now be known as the NX300) and the NX300h, respectively, both retain their power outputs yet get a tweaking or two in the suspension department for better ride and handling. Adaptive Variable Suspension, first seen on the new Lexus LC 500, makes its way here and gives up to 650 damping and compression adjustments, resulting in what Lexus claims is remarkable car control and ride comfort.
And of course, no Lexus upgrade would be complete without the NX F Sprrt variant joining the fray. This one gets a specially-designed mesh grille with jet black finish, as well as machined finish alloy rims. The cabin receives Naguri aluminum touches and separate readouts for the turbo boost and g-force meters. It’s all in the name of exclusive sportiness.
The Lexus NX will be available for orders real soon.
