Lexus Blazes the Crossover Trail with 2015 Lexus NX

Lexus has been blazing trails in the luxury vehicle segment since it first came on the scene back in 1989. The automaker has a history of producing quality crossover vehicles, and is focusing their efforts on a new compact utility crossover,  the 2015 Lexus NX,  to meet the demands of the market today.

First, let’s take a look at a few crossover influences from decades passed.

Toyota Rav4

When sister company Toyota debuted the RAV4 in 1996, the market had seen its fair share of hatchbacks, minivans, and station wagons. What people wanted instead was a vehicle that drove like a car, but seated passengers like an SUV.

In fact, Lexus’ research showed that only 7 percent of people that owned an SUV actually drove off road.

Unlike the trucks that were built on a body-on-frame structure, the RAV4 sported a uni-body construction that made it more like a car, only bigger.

With that, the compact SUV segment was born, and Lexus led the way in terms of reliability and fuel efficiency.

But the automaker didn’t stop there. They wanted to create a vehicle in the luxury segment that was based on the platform of the RAV4, but with a few more bells and whistles.

Lexus RX

When the Lexus RX first came out in 1998, it was given the name Radiant Crossover. It was built with a 3.0 liter V6, high ground clearance, and elevated seating.

It was designed as a luxury automobile, unlike many SUVs had been up to that point. It was also the first in its class to be built on an existing car platform.

The RX boasted translucent front and rear light covers with circular lenses, front triangular quarter windows, door mounted side mirrors, two-tone color scheme, and a drag co-efficient of 0.36.

It quickly became Lexus’ best-selling model, prompting competitors to come out with premium crossovers of their own. In 2003, the second generation RX was classified as a mid-size luxury vehicle.

Lexus NX

Now, the new 2015 Lexus NX crossover is the latest proof that Lexus’ ingenuity continues to go above beyond the standard of luxury. Last year, the Lexus showcased the Lexus NX during the International Auto Show in Beijing.

Just like the RX, the 2014 NX shared a similar chassis with the RAV4. But that’s where the resemblance ends.

The 2015 Lexus NX (Nimble Crossover) derives its style from the brand’s artistry and luxury.

There are three new Lexus NX models for its rivals to contend with – the NX200t, the NX300 hybrid, and the NX F-Sport.

The 2015 NX 200t and 200t F-Sport comes equipped with 235 horsepower, a 2.0 liter four cylinder engine and 258 pound feet of torque. The hybrid version runs on a 2.5 liter Atkinson cycle 4 cylinder engine, getting you close to 35 mpg city and 31 mpg highway.

The 2015 Lexus NX crossover has come a long way from its humble roots. To learn more about this versatile crossover and its availability at our Highland Park dealership, call us at (847) 999-0095.  Whatever your driving pleasure, Lexus of Highland Park has a quality selection of crossovers, sedans, and SUVs to try. Visit our online showroom to browse our great selection of New and Used Lexus models, at: www.lexusofhighlandpark.com