Lexus is to introduce its new compact SUV model, the NX, next autumn at a price point "below €45,000", in a direct challenge to cars such as the Audi Q 5, the BMW X3 and the Range Rover Evoque.
Curiously, Lexus does not openly refer to the Evoque as a direct competitor, but the Range Rover’s success is a clear influence on the NX, with more than a passing design nod to the sloping rear and smaller window space.
Lexus might be coming slightly late to the party, but at least it has had an opportunity to make the NX different from any previous offering. It does not have the softer lines of its competitors but rather emphasises a slightly more powerful and sculpted profile, especially at the front.
Lexus folk can be defensive when the word crossover is mentioned, insisting that the car is an SUV and nothing less. Of course, the inherent irony here is that in markets such as Ireland, sales of the car will be 70 per cent two-wheel drive and the balance four-wheel drive.
Inside, the NX has an impressive layout and a fairly typical Lexus array of controls and instruments; interestingly, it has opted for a finger-touch panel to control displays rather than a touch-screen. “Touch-screens are now passé,” remarks one Lexus executive. Leather seats will be standard on the car, but large leather seats can make the driving and front seat passenger areas feel rather narrow. The rear is adequate but will still be a bit of a squeeze for adult passengers.
The main engine choice for the NX is going to be the 2.5-litre hybrid version (all Lexus models in Ireland are now hybrid-only), and Lexus is hoping to sway people driving premium diesels away to hybrid with a promised fuel consumption of 5.2 litres per 100km (about 54 mpg) and an A4 tax band attracting annual road tax of €200. Although the current emissions rate is 120 g/km, Lexus is confident it can get the figure down to the sub-120 figure by formal launch time.
The 2.0-litre petrol version that goes on sale in a number of European markets next year will not be sold in Ireland, to keep the concentration on the lower-emissions hybrid version.