UK Drive: The Lexus NX offers lower running costs, but is best suited to urban environments

What is it?

In a world more conscious than ever about the effect of combustion engines upon the environment, there’s never been a greater need for low-emission ways to get around. However, what if you don’t want to forsake a little luxury while doing so? That’s where Lexus comes in. It’s combining premium styling and materials with lower running costs and hybrid technology in cars such as this – the NX.

What’s new?

The NX has actually been around for a little while now, but has been updated to bring it more into line with rivals. The vast majority of these additions are aesthetic; a new-look grille has been fitted at the front while the LED lights have been given a nip and tuck too. There are other new design aspects – but we’ll delve into those in a bit.

What’s under the bonnet?

The only powertrain available with the NX is a hybrid one. It’s made up of a 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine, linked to an electric motor. The total power output with the two combined is 195bhp and 210Nm of torque, lending the NX a 0-60mph time of 8.9 seconds and a top speed of 112mph. As mentioned, it’s the only engine option to choose from on the NX – the turbocharged petrol-powered NX200t was discontinued in September of last year. The NX is available as either a two- or four-wheel drive, too.

What’s it like to drive?

As with most hybrids, the NX is best suited to inner city driving where the electric motor makes its presence known. At lower speeds, you can waft around on all-electric power and this makes it rather relaxing to drive, particularly in stop-start traffic. The ride is a little on the firm side, and can sometimes bang through larger potholes, but for the most part it’s comfortable.

How does it look?

The NX is a great exhibition of Lexus’ sharp, modern design language. It’s all angles and grooves and, when compared to a lot of cars currently on the road, really does look different. As mentioned earlier, it’s been treated to a variety of styling upgrades including a reshaped front bumper redesigned lights. Higher-spec SE and Luxury models gain bi-LED units for even better nighttime visibility, while two new 18-inch alloy wheel designs have been added to Luxury and F-Sport specifications.

What’s it like inside?

The NX’s cabin is somewhat of a mixed bag. The materials used are of a high quality, with plenty of soft-touch plastics and leather matched with bronze-coloured elements to help create a generally well-built feeling interior. However, it’s with the ergonomics that the NX is let down. The myriad of buttons located to the side and to the front of the gear selector are tricky to pick out when on the move, while the driving mode rotary controller is placed just in front of the knob for the volume – it’s easy to go for one and get the other.

What’s the spec like?

Our test car came in dynamic F-Sport trim. This brings with it the aforementioned safety pack, as well as other features such as a 14-speaker audio system, dual-zone climate control and full leather upholstery. You also get a handy 350-degree view monitor which shows you a clear view of the car’s surroundings when parking – ideal for tighter spaces.

Verdict

The Lexus NX is certainly a good choice if you’re looking to lower running costs, particularly if you’re mainly driving in urban environments. However, those travelling further afield may want to look elsewhere as the NX simply isn’t the best suited for motorway journeys, where its noisy powertrain really does make itself known. Though the car’s styling is certainly a plus point, this just can’t make up for the lack lustre performance, nor the confusing interior layout.

Facts at a glance

Model as tested: Lexus NX
Price (as tested): £40,640
Engine: 2.5-litre petrol linked to electric motor
Power (bhp): 195
Torque (Nm): 210
Max speed (mph): 112
0-60mph: 8.9 seconds
MPG (combined): 54.3 (combined)
Emissions (g/km): 121