1 Oct 2014
In late 2014 Lexus introduced its first ever compact SUV, the NX 300h.
Officially, the NX is classed as a small luxury SUV in the VFACTS sales classifications, up against rivals such as the BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLA and Audi Q3, but its size and pricing will more likely pit it against bigger units such as the BMW X3, Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60. The 300h range was powered by a petrol-electric hybrid powertrain borrowed from the large Lexus ES sedan, employing a 114kW 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle four-cylinder petrol engine that, when combined with a 105kW electric motor, pumps 147kW of power to the front wheels via a continuously variable transmission In early 2015 Lexus launched its first ever turbocharged four-cylinder engine is the 200t version.
Combining both Otto and Atkinson Cycle combustion methods according to driver input and prevailing conditions, the 2.0-litre twin-scroll turbo four-cylinder petrol unit delivers 175kW of power between 4800 and 5600rpm, and 350Nm of torque from 1650 and 4000rpm.
The 200t will hit 100km/h from standstill in 7.3 seconds in front-wheel drive Luxury 2WD guise, or 7.1s in the all-wheel drive (AWD) versions that make up the rest of the range. Aided by stop/start tech, on the fuel consumption front, it averages 7.7L/100km (AWD: 7.9L/100km) and 178g/km of CO2 (AWD: 184g/km).
Another difference between 200t and 300h is switch from the 300h’s CVT for a six-speed torque-converter automatic.
The 200t’s RX-derived AWD system is variable, going from full FWD to 50:50 rear-drive according to prevailing conditions the moment the wheel is turned 10 per cent of torque is channelled to the rear, while AWD Lock is available up to 40km/h. Lexus’ first pre-loaded front differential is fitted to all models.
