Lexus NX to have sharper look & enhanced performance in 2018
The 2018 NX gets a sleeker overall shape. The new model was revealed on April 19th at the Shanghai Motorshow.
The NX was introduced in 2014, targeting those who wanted a luxurious crossover. Both stylish and spacious, the NX is considered the best-looking crossover in its class.
Lexus designers want to continue to enhance the original design of the NX outperformed sales forecasts around the world.
The first change to the all new NX, has been applied to its name. Previously known as the NX 200t, the 2018 model will change its name to NX 300. The ‘t’ designation has been completely removed since its turbo-charged engine is no longer unique to the NX, as we see it being adopted by other Lexus models.
Breakdown of Redesign
EXTERIOR
Front Fascia
- Refreshed, sportier face for an overall stronger and more aggressive presence
- Upper portion of grille and front bumpers now more fluid with hood and front doors
- Premium head lamp option with triple projectors (similar to LC 500)
- Satin and smoked chrome trim elements applied to grille
- New vertical elements added to grille’s inner portion
- Lower front bumper offers better support to spindle grille
- Relocated fog lamps to corner of front bumpers
Rear End
- Lower rear bumper cover now involves elements of the grille’s spindle motif
- Broadened to enhance the vehicle’s wide stance and low-center-of-gravity look
- Elongated tail lights
- Black garnish revised for more emphasis of ‘L”-shaped lenses
- Larger chrome-tipped exhaust tips
- Exhaust tips integrated into revised bumper cover design
- New rear underbody spoiler
- NX Hybrid to have slotted sectional piece with an L-shaped satin chrome border that blends into underbody spoiler
- Sensor foot-operated rear hatch
Wheels
- High-grade aluminum 18-in. wheel option available
- Features bright machined-finish with dark metallic paint
INTERIOR
- Center dashboard display goes from 7” – 10.3” with an 8” audio display monitor
- HVAC control panel simplified by replacing small section of buttons with four easy-to-operate toggle switches adorned with tiny “s” on their surface
- Rear-seat passengers able to set temperature of their own compartment via switch on rear console
- Analogue clock features cleaner, simpler design with more pronounced outer ring
- Clock has been slightly enlarged for better readability
- Now included satellite control which automatically sets the time in different time zones
- Nearly all controls and switches now have metallic satin finish
- Remote touch interface pad enlarged for easier operation
- Palm rest reshaped for maximum wrist comfort
- Wireless charger tray larger to accommodate larger smart phones
- USB ports more optimally positioned in center console
- Amperage increased for faster charging
- Models with Head Up Display (HUD) will now have until integrated into upper instrument panel for a smooth dash surface
PERFORMANCE
- Sportier engine sound and exhaust note reproduced through the speakers by Lexus’ Active Sound Control (ASC)
- Springs, stabilizer bars and bushings retuned for improved turn-in response and steady-state cornering
- New shock absorbers improve the quality of smooth ride
- New Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS)
- Reduced noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) thanks to combination of suspension tuning and addition of strategically placed sound deadening within the vehicle’s body
F SPORT
- Trim level will receive specially textured Naguri aluminum ornamentation
- New Flare Red interior colour seating surface treatment exclusive to the F Sport
- Readouts for turbo boost and G forces for HUD display
