Lexus NX 200t F Sport
Lexus has dominated the midsize luxury crossover segment for years with its popular RX 350. But as rivals started offering compact luxury CUVs like the Range Rover Evoque, Lexus decided that the RX needed a smaller sibling. The result is the Lexus NX – and it’s much more than a condensed version of the RX.
The exterior styling takes its cues from the recently redesigned IS sport sedan. Stunning from the most dramatic exterior line to the smallest interior detail, the NX makes a statement that can’t be ignored. Outside, you’ll find unique door-handle LEDs that offer a sophisticated invitation to the cabin. Inside, bolstered seating holds you tightly in place through every curve.
The NX isn’t just notable for its styling, though, as it features an all-new 2.0-liter turbocharged four cylinder V6 that produces 235-horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. This may not sound groundbreaking, but this is Lexus’s first-ever turbocharged gasoline engine in the U.S. market, and that makes it extremely important.
The plush cabin is a step above many other cars in the segment, and innovative interior packaging allows for a remarkable amount of rear seat legroom compared with the competition. It also has one of the best connected infotainment systems in the segment. Standard equipment includes a ten-way power driver’s seat, an eight-way power front passenger seat, keyless entry and starting, a 4.2-inch instrument panel display, a backup camera, the Safety Connect telematics system (with a one-year subscription), and the Lexus Enform infotainment system with a 7-inch color display, CD, AM/FM HD Radio with weather and traffic info, SiriusXM satellite radio, aux-in and USB inputs, and the Enform App Suite.
As part of the F Sport trim, the NX 200t comes equipped with 18-inch wheels, sport-tuned suspension, active LED headlamps, LED daytime running lights and tail lamps, perforated-leather seats, paddle shifters, and Active Sound Control that replicates engine sounds within the cabin.
The F Sport also includes the $2,140 Navigation Package with the Remote Touch interface and a ten-speaker premium sound system, the $2,045 Premium F Sport Package with heated front seats and a sunroof, and a $220 wireless smartphone charging system.
With a starting price of $41,950 (excluding freight and pre-delivery inspection fees), the NX 200t is about $12,000 less expensive than the fuel-economy-first NX 300h. And in typical Lexus fashion existing RX owners will appreciate, the NX 200t also comes with more standard kit (i.e. heated steering wheel, navigation, power moon roof, etc.) than its German rivals.
While the larger RX is renowned for its luxury, Lexus realizes one reason you may want the smaller NX is for a sportier, more nimble drive. That’s what makes the F Sport indispensable. Stop by your Highland Park Lexus dealer to see for yourself.
