2015 Lexus NX Hybrid Caters to Young Urban Buyers
The goal: Design a compact crossover that eclipses that of the others in the same segment. The buyer: Young millennials looking for a small, sporty ride with a high-end price tag.
In a market with expected growth of about 100 million vehicles by 2024, the luxury portion is estimated to reach 4.5-4.6 percent annually and many automakers are responding to these figures and the ones that determine those up-and-coming drivers that will be behind the wheel over the next decade.
This burgeoning group of individuals boasts an active, professional lifestyle with an urbanized landscape. They want design and performance at a cost well under $40,000.
The idea behind the Lexus Compact Crossover concept is very similar to that of its high-end rivals: design environmentally conscious cars that appeal to the sensibilities of the urban millennial and as they grow, they will continue to demand more sophisticated vehicles.
The Lexus LF-NX utilizes a 2.5 Atkinson four-cylinder engine, much like that of its sister-brand Toyota and offer a battery pack along with two motor-generators. This could give the Lexus car a six-cylinder engine feel, but with better gas mileage.
The Lexus brand is thinking more globally these days. The younger, more enterprising buyer has a stronger presence in today’s auto industry and not only are they striving to achieve more, they refuse to be tied down to one particular brand. This makes the market fair game for many companies.
Other characteristics of this new-car buying breed – they want what they like and are not inclined to wait. They love high-tech gadgets and were practically born with the term social media stamped on the back of the hands. Their work days are far different than their weekends and they need a vehicle that sums up who they are and what their lives represent.
Car companies are marketing their cars now as affordable luxury vehicle, because probably the most important factor that comes into play is affordability.
On average this new age buyer will probably retain the same vehicle for three years instead of the five year average and loves their IPod, Bluetooth, and six-CD changer. They have even been suspected to be both left brain and right brain – an interesting mixture of both logic and emotion and would much rather lease a vehicle instead of buy as to, you know, keep up with their ever-evolving tastes and preferences.
During the North American Auto Show in Detroit, luxury big names paraded slimmer, more powerful cars around in hopes of attracting the passion of the budding professional, looking to make a car connection.
Some brands believe the recipe for success with this age-group is to provide the best possible experience early and eventually you have a loyal customer for life. Others think the formula involves more excitement and expression, while others feel that by luring them away from other brands while they’re young, they grow with you.
Visit Lexus of Highland Park for a great selection of new and pre-owned Lexus vehicles. Our premium selection of vehicles will certainly meet your needs.