Shanghai Surprise: Updated 2018 Lexus NX Revealed

Sleeker, sportier NX’s impressive refresh wows automotive journalists at Shanghai Auto Show.

In 2014, the Lexus NX debuted with exterior styling that instantly made it stand out from the rapidly-growing crossover segment. Since then, the vehicle has maintained its popularity despite any other substantial upgrades, which makes now the perfect time for a refresh. And Lexus has done just that for the 2018 model year, with stunning results that were revealed to the automotive press today at the Shanghai Auto Show.

As far as exterior changes go, the 2018 NX receives a new front fascia with redesigned front bumpers and a revised grille that gives the vehicle a sleeker look. According to Lexus, the new styling also helps the crossover aerodynamically. Those aren’t the only changes that have been made to the NX’s front end, though. New headlamps with triple projectors that look similar to the ones found on the LC coupe have also been fitted to the car.

The rear end also gets a few new touches with a wider rear bumper that now encompasses some of the same elements of the front grille’s spindle pattern. The taillights are longer, there are larger chrome-tipped exhaust tips that have been integrated into the crossover’s bumper, and an underbody spoiler, as well. And a new set of aluminum 18-inch wheels has also been added to the set of changes.
 

Impressive updates to its exterior help the NX stand out from the crowd. But Lexus has also given the interior a few more luxurious touches, including a new metallic satin finish on its control switches.

 
Not to be left out, the NX Hybrid receives a slotted sectional piece with an L-shaped satin chrome border that blends directly into the spoiler. The NX F Sport gets minor updates, including a jet-black finish on the grille, bespoke wheels and “Metallic Sport” interior trim.

Impressive updates to its exterior will continue to help the NX stand out from the crowd. But Lexus has also given the interior a few more luxurious touches. The display on the center dashboard has grown from seven inches to 10.3, the HVAC control panel has been simplified with toggle switches replacing buttons, and there’s a new analog clock. Lexus has given the majority of controls and switches inside the crossover a new metallic satin finish, too, for a premium look.

Besides a simple number change, which sees the NX 300 replacing the NX 200t, Lexus has made numerous changes to the crossover’s suspension to improve its handling. Every little thing in terms of suspension has been re-tuned, but the major change includes Adaptive Variable Suspension that, as Lexus claims, offers up to 650 instantaneous damping and compression adjustments.

A whole lot of minor updates, like the exterior ones on the new 2018 NX will draw drivers wanting something different in, while the suspension components will appease those looking for a sportier feel, make the new model a clear winner.