Lexus is making the NX lineup in the
United Kingdom more affordable with the introduction of a new front-wheel drive
variant. Based on the 300h spec of the premium subcompact crossover, it’s
offered from £ 35,860 (US$ 44,253) in the United Kingdom, which makes it £ 1,250
(US$ 1,543) more affordable than the AWD version.
The automaker claims that ditching the
all-wheel drive system has dropped the CO2 emissions from 171 to 161 g/km,
whereas the fuel consumption has improved from 37.1 to 39.7 mpg UK (30.1-33.1
mpg US / 7.6-7.1 l/100 km). This provides annual savings of £ 330 (US$ 407).
The 2.5-liter engine and electric motor
soldier on with no changes whatsoever, producing 197 PS. The
0-100 km/h acceleration remains unchanged at 9.2 seconds, and the
vehicle can hit a top speed of 180 km/h.
While the all-wheel drive NX rides on
18-inch alloy wheels, the new FWD model has 17-inch wheels. Standard gear also
includes the LED headlights with Automatic High Beam, front and rear parking
sensors, auto-folding side mirrors and auto-dimming rearview mirror. The
power-adjustable front seats, 8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and
Android Auto, reversing camera and others are included, but the Lexus
Navigation can be specified as an option.
Like before, the Lexus Safety Sense suite
of safety systems comes at no extra cost and includes features such as the
Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Keep Assist, Pre-Collison Safety and Adaptive
Cruise Control. The new entry-level NX is available for order in Britain, but
deliveries will commence “when conditions relating to the current Covid-19
pandemic permit”, the company noted.
