ClubLexus Exclusive: First Look at the 2015 Lexus NX200t F Sport
It’s still 10 days before Lexus debut the NX at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition, but we were given an exclusive first look at the latest addition to the Lexus SUV lineup. Although the full specifications for the vehicle won’t be available for another couple of months and the car won’t hit dealerships until close to the end of the year, our time with the NX might give you a glimpse of few interesting things.
For the second time (after the RC) Lexus puts up a production vehicle that’s pretty close to the concept. While some obvious lines and features are toned down, the exterior of NX more or less carries the styling and aggressiveness of the LF-NX concept, which we are very happy about.
Overall size of the vehicle seems to be a bit smaller than the RX with a lower roof line. For those who wonder, Lexus will have an F Sport version of this car (as shown).
Overall size of the vehicle seems to be a bit smaller than the RX with a lower roof line. For those who wonder, Lexus will have an F Sport version of this car (as shown).
It carries bold lines along the side with aggressive LED headlights up front and stylish taillights in the back. The signature F Sport black mesh front spindle grille makes it to the NX and it actually flows pretty well with the car.
Interior cabin space is surprisingly good. Although the car looks to be smaller than the RX, first and second rows have plenty of space and mainly compromised only in the head room area. There is plenty of cargo space as well, and you get even more room with the 60/40 folding second row seats. And yes, according to Lexus, there will be a powered folding second row seat option.
The center console design is interesting. First of all, before you ask, the navigation screen is fixed. We were a little surprised about the design; we wish the screen can integrate better with the rest of the dash like the RX, as of now it looks a little bit of an add-on. The climate control and radio buttons take on a layered design approach, which gives it a modern but somewhat busy feel with rows and rows of buttons.
The center console design is interesting. First of all, before you ask, the navigation screen is fixed. We were a little surprised about the design; we wish the screen can integrate better with the rest of the dash like the RX, as of now it looks a little bit of an add-on. The climate control and radio buttons take on a layered design approach, which gives it a modern but somewhat busy feel with rows and rows of buttons.
The NX features the next generation Remote Touch Interface and they moved from the original joystick / mouse device to the new touchpad design. From our limited time with it, the unit is actually very easy to use and intuitive. The best part is as you scroll your finger across the touchpad, it actually gives you a force feedback when you are over a button, much like how the original system works. This makes it easier to use while you are driving.
Also new in the NX is the latest wireless smartphone charging capability, located inside the center armrest. With more and more phones today equipped with this feature, it makes it a lot easier to keep the phone charged and stream songs through Bluetooth, all without running any cables.
The NX200t F Sport we had features a two-tone red/black interior design and we love it. The contrast stitching as well as the sporty seat design gives the interior a fresher and younger look.
The NX200t F Sport we had features a two-tone red/black interior design and we love it. The contrast stitching as well as the sporty seat design gives the interior a fresher and younger look.
Of course, the drivetrain is one of the most important parts of this car. The car features a 2.0L turbocharged engine, a first for Lexus. With competitors all going the same route due to regulations, we can only expect to see more of this in the future. We can’t wait to see the power numbers and most importantly the gas mileage information of the NX200t.
So here it is, the 2015 Lexus NX200t F Sport. The RX has always been a winner for Lexus, and with the NX joining the lineup, it can help divide the segment and allow the RX to grow and go in new direction. Check out tons of pics below!
