absolutely! AUTO REVIEW | By Steve Kursar –
The 2016 Lexus NX is an all-new model that entered the impressive Lexus lineup last model year. This compact luxury crossover is the brand’s somewhat late first entry in this very popular and crowded segment. But, if you’ve been waiting patiently to purchase the Lexus NX, you’ll be happy to know that this car is definitely worth the wait.
Lexus practically invented the luxury crossover with their iconic mid-size RX. This vehicle, built on the Camry platform, first appeared on American roads way back in 1998. It became an instant hit with its rich interior, an efficient V6 engine and a very smooth ride. Currently in its fourth generation, it continues to lead sales in its segment. But, car buyers without children who don’t need the roomier interiors have flocked to the smaller crossovers that also offer better fuel economy and a more fun ride.
So, Lexus introduced the NX designed from top to bottom to appeal to a younger audience looking to step up into a luxury vehicle. The exterior features an aggressive grille and a muscular stance, making it very clear that this is no stodgy Lexus. Approach the NX at night, and you’re welcomed by a beam of light on the ground and around the door handles as the interior slowly illuminates.
The interior, designed to feel like a sports car, has that impeccable Lexus fit and finish with buttery leather and exquisite, real, exotic wood. The navigation and entertainment system is controlled by a touchpad, another innovation designed to appeal to younger drivers. The cargo area is wide and roomy enough to accommodate four golf club bags.
The new NX is available in two versions, the gasoline powered 200t and the hybrid 300h. The base NX 200t, with an MSRP of $34,865, sports a newly developed 235 hp, 2.0 liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed transmission delivering fuel economy numbers of 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The NX 300h is powered by a 194 hp, 2.5 liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine working in unison with a pair of electric motors to get impressive fuel economy numbers of 35 mpg city and 31 mpg highway.
The Lexus NX has everything it takes to attract a buyer looking to step up into a luxury brand that’s still a blast to drive. Your elderly aunt probably won’t approve.
Follow Steve Kursar at KursarOnCars.blogspot.com.