Latest All-New Lexus NX F-Sport to set new standards in intuitive motoring

With a combination of handsome looks, imaginative interior, superb craftsmanship and remarkable engineering, the Lexus NX has been regarded as a game changer in the SUV segment. With the all-new Lexus NX F-SPORT set to debut in Malaysia soon, Malaysian motorists will once again witness the birth of the next-generation game changer in the luxury SUV segment.

With over 95 percent of its components completely refreshed, the all-new Lexus NX F-SPORT transforms into a model that heralds Lexus’ foray into the next generation.

“The Lexus NX has endeared itself by combining an intuitive design and nimble performance in an attractively-sized package. It was unlike any other SUV in its segment and proved to be a very popular model here, making up one in three Lexus sold by Lexus Malaysia. This new model raises aspirations even further as it brings greater innovation and superior engineering, promising a rewarding and truly satisfying ownership experience,” said President of Lexus Malaysia Mr Ravindran K.

From the outset, Lexus engineers aimed to retain the originality and distinctiveness of the lovable Lexus NX form while injecting fresh and innovative next-generation Lexus design elements into the new model. Its dynamic and solid stance has been enhanced by chiseled character lines creating a seductive and powerful image.

The front design has been given a bolder image, offering a cleaner and more purposeful look. The character spindle grille features new grille mesh with criss-cross patterns while the front bumper splitter is finished in satin silver to create a sporty contrast to the gloss black of the grille. The 3-eye LED projector headlights feature a black extension that creates a more subdued impression and enhances the look of the L-shaped DRL.

From the side, the new Lexus NX F-SPORT evokes a strong emotional appeal with its sleek profile and truncated rear while the flared wheel arches express a bold stance, creating an impression of dynamic performance and agility.

In the rear, the tail lights of the new Lexus NX F-SPORT also receive an inspiring treatment. The signature L-shaped combination lamps now flank a centrally-positioned light bar that acts as a tail lamp as part of the new brand signature. The Lexus logo has also been given a makeover with a sleek and modern outlook.

As the Lexus NX name stands for Nimble Cross-over, effort has been made to ensure that the all-new Lexus NX becomes an even more capable performer.

Power for the F-Sport variant is derived from a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine producing 275hp @ 6,000rpm. Stump-pulling 430Nm of torque is available from 1,700rpm all the way to 3,600rpm, giving the Lexus NX sizzling performance in all driving conditions. The smooth and responsive engine is mated to a new 8-speed automatic transmission with AI shift control that uses a camera to scan the road ahead and match its shift pattern accordingly.

Lexus NX Luxury variant
Also available is the Lexus NX Luxury variant with a 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated engine. Producing a respectable 204hp @ 6,600rpm with 243Nm of torque available from between 4,000 to 5,000rpm, the linear power delivery of this engine makes for a truly enjoyable drive be it in urban settings or on the open roads.

Power delivery is primarily to the front wheels for maximum efficiency but using an electronically- controlled full-time AWD system, the new Lexus NX gets its cat-like tenacity from a smart power- transfer system that adjusts power split between front and rear wheels according to driving conditions. This system reduces the incidence of under- or over-steer, providing the driver with more precise cornering performance.

Central to the new Lexus NX’s nimble performance too is the Lexus Global Architecture K (GA-K) platform. Offering 30% improvement in rigidity over the previous generation, the new platform offers improved cornering control and dynamic handling. The improved platform’s strengths are achieved through various Lexus firsts including laser peening welding, the use of high-rigidity foam material and a twin bonnet lock construction aimed at ensuring that both variants of the new Lexus NX offers precise handling performance.

With safety paramount to Lexus, the new Lexus NX comes with a host of features under the Lexus Safety System Plus (LSS+) umbrella. These include the spectrum of items such as 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).

To further enhance driving pleasure and for greater security, the new Lexus NX also gets 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 maneouvres.

Based on the development concept of Vital x Tech where driving dynamics and innovative technologies fuse to create significant improvements, the Lexus NX F-SPORT sets a new standard in terms of design, powertrain, safety and convenience technologies.

Key among these is the new Lexus Driving Signature that has been defined by the Tazuna Concept. This concept draws on the relationship between a jockey and his horse where subtle movements from the rider is translated to instructions the horse intuitively understands. Digital modelling and advanced computer design resulted in the repositioning of numerous functions within the cockpit of the new Lexus NX.

A prime example of the Tazuna influence is the reduction of the number of switchgear from 78 items to 45. Physical buttons are retained only for frequently-used actions while the multi-function buttons on the steering wheel now control other actions, allowing adjustments on the move. The touch- sensitive buttons offer tactile response with the corresponding action being shown on the heads-up display so the driver’s focus is never removed from the road.

Many of the lesser-used functions have been embedded into the angled 14-inch touch screen that sits in the middle of the dashboard. This intuitive and clear display panel is the largest in its class and offers drivers with a quick reference to key functions and connects to Android Auto or wirelessly to Apple Carplay.

While the Lexus NX gains tremendous benefits of intuitive design through advanced digital modelling, there is no denying that the influence of Takumi craftsmen continues to define the intricate details of the vehicle.

Although the driver enjoys a more engaging environment that allows him to keep his hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, the passengers can truly relax and indulge in the Omotenashi hospitality of the Lexus NX interior. Designed to reflect the settings of a luxurious lounge environment, the choice of fine quality materials and precision finishing ensure that everything they see, hear and touch are quintissentially Lexus.

To create the perfect mood for the journey, both variants of the new Lexus NX come with an ambient lighting system embedded in its door panels, centre console and foot well. Offering 64 colour choices of which 14 have been pre-defined, the lighting system is able to reflect different moods inspired by nature.

Making its debut in the new Lexus NX is the use of an e-latch door opener. Traditional door openers require two actions to open the door – pulling on a handle and pushing the door open. With the e- latch, a convenient button activates the door mechanism allowing a single action to open the door from inside mimicking the action of opening a Shoji screen.

Eight exterior colours are available with the new Lexus NX including Sonic Chrome that joins the line- up while 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.

Orders for the all-new Lexus NX will be opened from 27 April, 2022 at all six Lexus Centres throughout the country. The all-new Lexus NX F-Sport is priced at RM389,888 on the road without insurance while the Luxury variant will be priced at RM 370,888 on the road without insurance

Price list here