All-New Lexus NX Now Open For Booking

The all-new Lexus NX will be officially launched in Malaysia soon thus Lexus Malaysia has signalled that its new SUV is now open for booking. The key variant of the all-new NX is the Lexus NX F-SPORT, though there is also the NX Luxury variant available later. According to Lexus, over 95% of its components are completely refreshed / updated.

Lexus engineers had from the start, targeted to retain the distinctiveness of the NX form, but inject it with fresh and innovative next-generation design elements. Its dynamic and solid stance has thus been enhanced by chiseled character lines that create a powerful appearance.

The design of the front now gives off a bolder vibe and features a cleaner and more purposeful look. The signature spindle grille has a new mesh design with crisscross patterns while the front bumper splitter is finished in satin silver for a sporty contrast to the grille’s glossy black. Additionally, the “3-eye” LED projector headlights feature a black extension that enhances the look of the L-shaped DRL (daytime running lights).

At the rear, the tail lights of the new Lexus NX F-SPORT sports signature L-shaped combination lamps which now flank a centrally-positioned light bar that also acts as a tail lamp and is part of the new brand signature. The Lexus logo also has received a makeover with a sleek and modern impression.

As a “N”imble “X”-over, the Lexus NX is built on the Lexus Global Architecture K (GA-K) with a wheelbase of 2,690 mm. The new GA-K platform offers 30% improvement in rigidity over the previous generation, as well as improved cornering control and more dynamic handling. The improved platform’s strengths are achieved through various Lexus firsts. These include laser peening welding which reduces metal fatigue, the use of high-rigidity foam material, and a twin bonnet lock construction.

To make use of this improved platform, the Lexus NX 350 F-Sport variant is fitted with a 2.4L turbocharged engine which produces 275 hp @ 6,000 rpm and 430 Nm of torque @ 1,700 – 3,600 rpm. The engine is mated to a new 8-speed automatic transmission with AI shift control. It uses a camera to scan the road ahead and match its shift pattern accordingly. On the other hand, the Lexus NX 250 Luxury variant comes with a 2.5L naturally aspirated engine that puts out 204 hp @ 6,600 rpm and 243 Nm @ 4,000 – 5,000 rpm.

Power is primarily sent to the front wheels for maximum efficiency but the NX can adjust the electronically-controlled full-time AWD system to suit driving conditions. This system will reduce incidences of under- or oversteer, and provide the driver with more precise handling performance.

Safety is a big thing for Lexus, and the new NX is equipped with the Lexus Safety System Plus (LSS+) suite. Features include Pre-Collision System (PCS) that also 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 NX also gets Road Sign Assist (RSA) that reads posted speed limits, a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) and Parking Brake Support (PKSB) that suppresses engine power and applies 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 NX F-SPORT sets a new standard in 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 has resulted in the repositioning of numerous functions within the cockpit of the new NX to improve the driver’s connection to the vehicle. An example of the Tazuna influence is the reduction of the number of switchgears from 78 items to 45. Further, physical buttons are retained only for frequently-used actions while the multi-function buttons on the steering wheel now control other actions as well. Also, the touch-sensitive buttons offer tactile response with the corresponding action shown in the heads-up display so the driver’s focus is never away from the road.

Many other lesser-used functions are embedded into the angled 14″ touchscreen in the middle of the dashboard. This intuitive and clear display panel is the largest in its class and offers drivers a quick reference to key functions. It also connects to Android Auto, or wirelessly to Apple CarPlay.

Although the driver enjoys a more engaging environment that allows him / her to keep the hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, the passengers can also relax and indulge in the Omotenashi hospitality of the NX interior. The cabin mimics a luxurious lounge environment, with influence of Takumi craftsmen defining the intricate details. The choice of fine quality materials and precision finishing that ensure everything the passengers see, hear and touch are quintessentially Lexus.

Both NX variants come with an ambient lighting system that illuminate the 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. Furthermore, Lexus’ e-latch door opener also make its debut with the new NX. Conventional door openers require 2 actions to open the door i.e. pulling on a handle and pushing the door open. With the e-latch, a convenient button activates the door mechanism allowing for a single action to open the door from the inside, mimicking the action of opening a Shoji screen.

“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.

There are 8 exterior colours to pick, including Sonic Chrome that joins the line-up. The F-SPORT variant gets 2 exclusive colours. Choices for the interior colours are Black and Dark Rose, with Hazel a new and exclusive choice for the Luxury variant. For F-SPORT buyers, they get a luxurious Black or Flare Red interior.

The all-new Lexus NX 350 F-Sport comes fully imported and is priced at RM389,888 (on the road without insurance) while the NX 250 Luxury variant will be priced at RM370,888 (on the road without insurance). Orders can be placed at any of the 6 Lexus Centres throughout nationwide.