By Derek Price
Automotive Writer
Lexus has long made cars that are impeccably engineered but — there’s no polite way to say this — boring.
In fact, that’s pretty much the only criticism you can lob at the brand. At a time when Lexus is making spectacular luxury cars that are, without exaggeration, the most reliable vehicles on Planet Earth, the only mud that car critics can sling is the vague notion that these flawless cars “lack personality.”
Nowhere is this more true than on Lexus’ ultra-popular RX luxury crossover, which has surfed that dull wave to become the best-selling vehicle in its class, by far.
Strangely, though, Lexus has begun to overcompensate for its bland reputation by rolling out a new, smaller crossover that screams for attention. From its tight handling to its stare-at-me body styling and Lexus’ first ever turbocharged engine, the new NX is designed to make a statement with every nut and bolt.
It’s saying, “Go ahead. Call me boring. I dare you.”
Personally, I think its exterior lines are the most beautiful ever to be sketched for a luxury crossover, although not everyone agrees. Its gigantic spindle grille is nothing if not controversial, but I love the aggressive look and welcome a crossover that’s actually daring for once. Too many competitors look exactly the same these days, as if no one wants to break the jelly-bean mold that was first formed in the 1990s.
Inside, you’ll find a cabin that’s built to Lexus’ best-in-the-world standards but has a more youthful, tech-focused design. Much of the attention is centered around a seven-inch screen that controls the NX’s myriad tech features, and it also has a digital display behind the steering wheel that adds to the sci-fi drama.
Unfortunately, Lexus still hasn’t figured out that cars don’t need a computer mouse. The Remote Touch Interface is distracting compared to the simplicity of using a well-designed touchscreen.
Comfort, though, is its strong point, which is surprising in a compact crossover. With a sporty suspension setup and short wheelbase, I expected it to have a more jarring, harsh feel on the highway, but Lexus has miraculously figured out how to massage the potholes away while staying fun in the corners. Its supportive but sumptuous seats are a big reason for that.
Technology takes center stage in the NX’s well-built cabin. A seven-inch digital display controls its long list of entertainment and customization options.
The all-new NX is available in two flavors: the turbocharged 200t and hybrid 300h. I’ve driven them both and tend to prefer the hybrid powertrain, if only because it delivers more of the smooth, syrupy acceleration I like in a luxury car. Its 35-mpg rating for city driving is just a nice bonus.
Pricing starts at $34,480 for the 200t and $39,720 for the hybrid.
At a Glance
What was tested?
2015 Lexus NX 300h ($39,720). Options: Wireless charger ($220), auto-dimming mirror ($125), power-folding rear seats ($400), LED headlamps ($1,160), luxury package ($4,505), navigation package ($2,140), auto-dimming outer mirrors ($660), intuitive parking assist ($500), cargo mat ($99), cargo net ($69). Price as tested (including $925 destination charge): $50,523
Wheelbase: 104.7 in.
Length: 182.3 in.
Width: 83.9 in.
Height: 64.8 in.
Powertrain: 2.5-liter I4 gasoline engine and 650-volt electric motors (194 total system horsepower)
Transmission: Electronic CVT
Estimated Mileage: 35 city, 31 highway
RATINGS
Style: 10
Performance: 7
Price: 8
Handling: 8
Ride: 7
Comfort: 8
Quality: 10
Overall: 8
Video Review:
2015 Lexus NX 300h
bit.ly/2015nx
Why buy it?
Its bold styling makes a serious statement, and its cabin is built as perfectly as any Lexus product. It’s a Lexus with personality.