Lexus Malaysia have just opened the bookings for its all-new luxury SUV, the Lexus NX F-Sport. Set to make its debut in Malaysia soon, this new premium SUV will be available in two variants, the Lexus NX 250 Luxury and Lexus NX 350 F-Sport. The luxury version starts at a price of RM389,888 while the standard NX F-Sport starts at RM370,888. These are on the road prices without insurance.
The NX name is definitely not a new one. The first Lexus NX was launched way in back in 2015, with the next generation model revealed in the middle of the 2021. Even till now, it still remains a tough competitor in the luxury SUV segment, battling against the likes of the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC Class and more. However, the all-new NX F-Sport is by no means similar to its predecessor. Up to 95% of its components have been refreshed to allow it to compete against the new wave of SUVs.
Under the bonnet of the Lexus NX F-Sport is a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine that outputs 275hp @6,000rpm and 430Nm of torque from 1,700rpm up to 3,600rpm. Meanwhile, the luxury variant uses a 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated engine that produces a lower output of 204hp@6,600rpm and 243Nm of torque from 4,000rpm to 5,000rpm.
The power delivery is mainly focused on the front wheels but uses an electronically controlled full-time AWD system, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Lexus NX uses a smart power-transfer system that adjusts the power levels between the front and rear wheels, reducing under or over-steer for the driver.
The overall design of the all-new Lexus NX still stays true to its original self, with a few additions here and there to modernized the look of the vehicle. The front design has been refreshed for a bolder and tougher look while the 3-eye LED projector headlights have a black extension for an enhanced look of the L-shaped daytime running lights.
While the engine of the new Lexus NX has been upgraded, its improved performance can also be related to the Lexus Global Architecture K (GA-K) platform. It has a 30% improvement in rigidity compared to the previous version, while offering better cornering control and dynamic handling. These improvements are thanks to various Lexus firsts like laser peening welding, the use of high-rigidity foam material and a twin bonnet lock construction.
Inside, modernization continues with most of the physical buttons reduced, from 78 in the last NX to just 45 now. There is now a huge 14-inch touchscreen fitted with Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay compatibility. Ambient lighting system with 64 colours has been embedded into the door panels, centre console and foot well to create the perfect mood for any drive.
Safety-wise, the Lexus NX has its own plethora of features under the Lexus Safety System Plus (LSS+) umbrella. They include the following features – Pre-Collision System (PCS) that even detects pedestrians and bicyclists, Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) with stop and go function and Adaptive High-beam System (AHS).
Additional quality of life, convenient and greater security features include Road Sign Assist (RSA) that reads posted speed limits, Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) and Parking Brake Support (PKSB) that supresses engine power and apply autonomous braking when necessary during parking manoeuvres.
The all-new Lexus NX will be available in eight exterior colour options including Sonic Chrome which joins the line-up for the first time. Meanwhile, the F-Sport variant gets two exclusive colours. Choices for the interior colours are Black and Dark Rose while the Luxury variant further enjoys an exclusive new Hazel interior. F-SPORT owners get a more luxurious Black or the head-turning Flare Red interior.
