Lexus Forges the Connection Between Driver and Car with the Tazuna Concept

Imagine getting into the driver’s seat and immediately feeling in complete control, as your instincts and intuition automatically kick into high gear. This is what drivers can expect from the Lexus NX. With a restructured internal functional layout, drivers are in for a ride like never before with the first-of-its-kind Tazuna Concept.

Inspired by the symbiotic relationship and interaction between a jockey and his race horse, the Tazuna Concept (which draws inspiration from the Japanese word for the reigns of a horse) allows drivers to take full control with only the slightest of movements – almost subtle, as they keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

To make this concept possible, a lot of thought, design and technological aspects had to be studied and looked into. For one, Lexus designers worked with Lexus’ Takumi artisans to perfect the design relationship between steering wheel and shift lever to minimise movement while making switches more intuitive and instinctive.

“With the introduction of this new concept, we want drivers to be able to experience a more immersive drive with an intuitive interface that will allow drivers to develop a special bond with their vehicle. The key to the Tazuna Concept is for drivers to always be safe and in full control as they perform functions such as shifting gears or accessing control buttons. It is the kind of emotional and instinctive connection between driver and car that Lexus strives to achieve while designing the cockpit of the Lexus NX,” said Datuk Ravindran K., President, Lexus Malaysia.

Extensive research was also done to find the perfect shoulder-to-fingertip distance of various people worldwide to define a layout between steering wheel and driver’s seat that fits all drivers comfortably while promoting good posture. New touch-tracer switches found on the steering wheel can also be customised to suit a driver’s preferred function or command, further eliminating the need for a driver to look down. Its operation is also shown in the head-up or multi-information display at the driver’s dashboard. Operational switches are also located within a driver’s reach, minimising or eliminating the need for posture change while driving.

Meanwhile, all relevant controls are also grouped together and brought closer to the driver in an easy eye-level view where a driver can see everything in just one glance, boosting the driver’s confidence and drive quality.  

This pioneering and original concept will redefine the ideal cockpit space for drivers. For instance, only the most frequently used physical buttons are retained with some located on the steering wheel itself to allow adjustments or changes to be made with just a flick of the finger. Meanwhile, other lesser used buttons and switches have been embedded into the large 14-inch multimedia touch screen display that sits in the middle of the dashboard. It comes complete with a navigation system along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for ease of control to the phone when intercepting calls or messages.

Those curious about Lexus’ Tazuna Concept can experience it firsthand at their nearest Lexus Centre – where the NX 350 F Sport and NX 250 Luxury are on display – or visit the Lexus roadshows below:

1Utama Shopping Centre,18-22 October – Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday (10am-10pm); Friday & Saturday (10am-10.30pm)
Waterfront Desa ParkCity, 26-29 October – 9am to 9pm
Imago Mall, 3-5 November – 10am to 10pm
Vivacity Megamall, 3-5 November – 10am to 10pm
Enjoy exclusive rebates when you book a Lexus NX (applicable to ready-stock Lexus NX models only) from now until 31st December 2023.

For more information about the Lexus NX, please visit https://www.lexus.com.my/