The head-turning 2015 Lexus NX is causing quite a commotion in the automotive industry. Buyers who have been waiting for a crossover this size from the brand will be blown away by its capable powertrain, flawless fit and finish, and impressive list of features.
It’s different from any Lexus we’ve seen before, and frankly, the whole package works extremely well. Here are 10 amazing facts about the 2015 NX that will have you lining up for a test drive.
Lexus’ First Turbocharged Engine
This is Lexus’ first venture into the world of turbocharging, and man, have they done it well. The NX’s 2.0-liter turbo engine furnishes drivers with 235 horsepower, and it can heat things up from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 7 seconds.
It’s paired with a newly developed 6-speed automatic transmission for ultimate performance and efficiency. Getting 28 miles per gallon on the highway, Lexus’ new crossover is as fuel efficient as many hatchbacks and sedans.
Choose Your Mode
With Drive Mode Select, the NX allows you to choose from three different drive modes. Normal is the standard option, providing typical responsiveness and fuel economy.
But if you’re not in a hurry and you want to save some gas, switch it to ECO. On the other hand, you might be in the mood for a more entertaining ride. If that’s the case, switch to Sport mode, and you’ll get a highly engaging feel.
The Tech You Love
Luxury now goes beyond plush materials and decadent details like fine wood trim (although we do love those Lexus trademarks). Now, when people think about luxury, they also expect their vehicles to have the latest in technology.
And of course, Lexus never disappoints. The NX is equipped with a Remote Touch Interface that the driver controls via a touch pad. It provides haptic (touch) feedback to guide you as you use it.
Users can simply swipe and tap to browse options and adjust settings, making it one of the most intuitive systems available in the industry.
Whether you want some entertainment, need to regulate the climate control, or have to track down your destination, the Remote Touch Interface is as easy to use as your smartphone.
And that’s not the only way in which the NX helps keep drivers connected. It also comes with a wireless charging tray so your phone’s battery will never run low.
The tray is conveniently positioned right at the top of the center console. You’ll find USB ports and an auxiliary jack inside the console as well.
Ravishing Good Looks
No matter what angle you look at it from, the NX’s edgy, assertive appearance will make an impression. This is not your father’s Lexus.
The NX is an excellent example of the much sportier, more modern looks that Lexus is infusing their vehicles with. An aggressive grille, clean angles, and snazzy LED lighting make its exterior far sharper than your typical family crossover.
Make it Sporty
If you like your ride a little extra spicy, then the F Sport version has your name on it. On the outside, a large spindle grille, dark chrome finished wheels, and exclusive F Sport badging step things up.
Inside the cabin, you’ll find paddle shifters, a perforated steering wheel and shifter, a specialized instrument panel, and Active Sound Control to enhance engine noise.
The F Sport version also offers a unique exterior finish called Ultrasonic Blue, and the interior can be dressed in either a sleek black or a racy red.
In addition to sexy looks, the NX F Sport also offers a highly tuned suspension and performance dampers, making for a very vibrant ride.
Fuel Economy is the Name of the Game
If your main priority is efficiency, then the NX 300h is a perfect fit. This hybrid’s combined fuel rating is 33 miles per gallon, making it a leader in its class. It outdoes the Audi A5 Hybrid by 6 mpg.
And you don’t have to let go of performance in order to keep the numbers down at the pump. Edmunds not only praises the 300h for its impressive fuel conservation but also for its “surprisingly sporty driving experience.”
With great handling that makes driving in urban areas a piece of cake, the NX 300h is both entertaining and practical.
Outstanding Versatility
The NX offers luxuriously comfortable seating for five, with a remarkably large back seat. While many crossovers claim to have plenty of room, passengers in the rear find themselves cramped and confined.
However, five adults can relax in the NX’s impeccable cabin without feeling like they’re pressed up against each other. There’s also a rear armrest that folds down between the seats. With such a great setup, this Lexus is a great choice for families as well.
The NX has 60/40 split rear seats that fold flat, extra storage beneath the cargo area, and a folding tonneau cover that can be stowed away. With a number of possible configurations, the NX’s flexibility is extremely handy.
Lexus also offers an optional power rear door, and power-folding/reclining rear seats to make loading up as simple as possible.
Packing up gear for a getaway is a cinch. Fitting all of your sports equipment is no problem. Change up the layout as needed to accommodate your friends, family, and all of the necessities without a hassle.
Safety is a Must
The NX comes with a variety of safety features built in, including antilock brakes, traction and stability control, and a rearview camera. Side curtain airbags and a driver knee airbag are also standard.
The vehicle is equipped with the Lexus Enform Safety Connect system which sends out an alert if there’s an emergency. The system can also be used to track down your vehicle if it has been stolen.
In addition to those standard features, buyers have the option of augmenting the NX’s safety setup with extra safeguards like blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
Music Lovers Rejoice
If music is your thing, the NX will have you rocking out in no time. HD Radio allows you to tag songs you like as you go in case you want to purchase them on iTunes later.
And if hearing your favorite song truly makes your day, you can upgrade to get a Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound Audio System. It provides a listening experience that’s unrivaled by any other in-car system.
Handle Things Remotely
This optional feature makes it possible to control the NX from just about anywhere using your smartphone. Forgot to lock the car doors before you left town? No problem, you can use your phone to do it remotely.
You can also start your engine while you’re still in the house so the NX can reach a good temperature before you hop in. And if you change your mind, turn it off without even having to step outside.
Another perk is that you can use the Lexus Enform app to find your parked vehicle. Ever had trouble finding your car in the lot after a concert? Not anymore.
The NX has so many conveniences to offer that you’ll find it hard to imagine how you lived without it for so long.
