The Next Chapter: Lexus NX signifies a new design generation

The second generation of Lexus NX — dubbed as The Next Chapter in design — is all about going above and beyond.

Milestones and standards are integral aspects of many. They signal achievements and progress; showing how far we’ve come on our respective journeys. What’s a milestone that comes to mind for you? For many, success could be symbolised by objects and for many others, special occasions.

Take Lexus for example. Since the Lexus NX’s introduction to the Malaysian market in 2015, the SUV model is said to account for 24 percent of the automaker’s sales in the country. Now, Lexus has launched the all-new second generation NX — setting another standard in the luxury medium-size crossover SUV market.

What makes the new Lexus NX truly unique?

The Next Chapter Design

The second generation of Lexus NX is the first to signify the Next Chapter of design language for the Japanese automaker. The new NX meshes innovative advanced technology and vital dynamism into one cohesive juggernaut known as the design concept of Vital+Tech. From now, expect the NX to continue leading Lexus forward in Design and Advanced Technology.

The main characteristics of the Next Chapter design can be seen through the simple yet impactful appearance of Lexus NX’s signature spindle grille. Painted in jet black and designed with subtler frame, the newly designed spindle grille is made to effortlessly integrate with the vehicle’s body.

To really express the unique proportions of Lexus, the brand has deepened the spindle architecture — that many have become familiar with — and giving it a three-dimensional design that begins from the spindle grille and extends to the rear fenders. Wait, there’s more! Emphasising the uniqueness of Lexus further, front fenders with upward-flowing three dimensional forms are created to become one with those at the rear fenders; as seen with the shape of NX.

The spindle at the front is given a next generation 3D expression upgrade. Notice the hood that’s been extended to the edge of the front. In addition, to strengthen the front end’s mass, Lexus has also vertically raised the grille surface. This design is said to allow more efficient air flow and ensuring that the radiator’s cooling performance is improved. Nothing’s cooler than a cool radiator.

Still on the NX’s new front area, a grille mesh with criss-cross patterns is featured on the character spindle grille for a bolder and more purposeful look. To create a sporty contrast to the grille’s gloss black design, Lexus made the vehicle’s front bumper splitter in satin silver finish. Along with entirely black headlamps that accentuate the L-shaped daytime running lights (DRL), these design components help to reduce weight, simplify assembly, improve cooling, and communicate NX’s dynamic nature.

Now, let’s check out the rear view! To further elaborate on the Next Chapter design, Lexus has narrowed the NX’s shape in the motif of a spindle toward the centre of the back door. For that important sense of solidity around the wide stance of rear tires and the rear cabin, the fenders at the back of the NX are now made to sandwich the spindle shape.

The rear combination lamps also play a role in communicating the unique originality of the NX — as seen with the independently positioned L-shaped lamp (on both left and right sides) that combines with an elongated light bar at the car’s centre. Of course, no brand identity is complete without an instantly recognisable mark. To symbolise the next generation of NX, the revised Lexus mark is now located above the license plate and in the centre of the rear hatch.

The Lowdown on AWD

The new NX now comes with the all-new electronically controlled full-time All Wheel Drive (AWD). It is actually a first in a Lexus model. Depending on situation, the AWD system frequently distributes driving force between the front and rear axles. All that is done to allow the vehicles to exude a sportier feel without compromising on safety. On the Multi-Information Display, drivers can see the distribution levels of torque. This encourages awareness of the status of the AWD system. Hence, drivers can expect strong traction transmission and smooth vehicle behaviour.

The NX Silhouette

Made to be simple yet spectacular and dynamic yet nimble, the silhouette of new NX is an amalgamation of contradictory but fitting elements. From sharp character lines to large curved surfaces, the new design expression utilises solid textures to create the next chapter.

You will see that with the shortened rear overhang for a fresh sense of lightness and with the extended hood that results in the illusion of lengthened front-end proportions. Furthermore, to give the cabin a more condensed feel and to provide emphasis to the kick-up at the rear, Lexus has also shortened the straight belt line.

All the deets on Lexus NX 350 F-Sport

What does the new NX run on?

There’s so much that can be said about the NX 350 F-Sport (joining the Malaysian portfolio that includes the NX 250 Luxury) but if there’s one word that can truly capture the spirit of the model, it’s powertrain. Equipped with a new four-cylinder 2.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine, it’s safe to say that the new NX is engineered for high torque and high output. Uninterrupted power from the vehicle with a maximum output of 275 horsepower benefits drivers tremendously. The variant has a top speed of 250 kilometres per hour and can achieve the century sprint in only 7.0 seconds.

Further emphasising the powertrain quality of the NX 350 F-Sport, a maximum output of 275 horsepower (as stated earlier) is produced at 6,000 revolutions per minute (rpm) and with a maximum torque of 430 Newton metres (Nm) — available from 1,700 rpm to 3.600 rpm. The new NX (which stands for Nimble Cross-over) is also mated with a new eight-speed automatic transmission with AI shift control for a more sizzling performance in all driving conditions.

What is the Tazuna Concept?

There’s also the Tazuna Concept that plays a massive role in defining the new Lexus Driving Signature. The Tazuna Concept revolves around the relationship between a jockey’s subtle movements and the horse’s intuitive understanding of those instructions. Fun fact: this approach was first revealed in the Lexus LF-30 Electrified concept car.

With the new NX, you will clearly see the Tazuna influence with the switchgear reduction. Going from 78 items to a mere 45, only actions which are frequently used will possess physical buttons whereas multi-function buttons on the steering wheel are now included to control other actions. These changes allow drivers to make adjustments while on the move.

The human-centred Tazuna cabin is said to be able to bring about an intimate and intuitive connection between driver and machine. So, it’s out with the ‘unnecessary’ (or lesser-used) to enhance safe vehicle control and clear forward visibility.

The Lexus NX has a brand new multimedia system

Drivers can find lesser-used functions in the new NX’s multimedia system, a 14-inch Touchscreen Display. Described by Lexus as the largest in its class, the display panel promises undisrupted clarity. Glare in bright external lighting conditions is reduced with the assistance of an anti-reflective coating. To make things even easier to use, the menu selection is displayed on the driver’s side.

Moreover, there will now be colour Head-Up Display (HUD) that’s projected on the windscreen glass in front of drivers. With the new NX, there are adjustable modes such as full mode that provides the status of the Lexus Safety System+ and the Minimum mode which only projects the road speed.

There’s no denying the fact that the new Lexus NX has achieved a new milestone in the automaker’s history. With the all-new second generation of Lexus NX, the Japanese motoring giants now have what’s dubbed The Next Chapter in Lexus design. From the Tazuna Concept to a rejuvenated silhouette, there is just so much to be in awe of with the new generation of NX. For the Malaysian market, the Lexus NX models are available in a myriad of exterior and interior colours — with two exclusive options for the F-Sport variant. They include Heat Blue, Graphite Black, Madder Red, and White Nova. Here lies the important question: would you add the new Lexus NX to your list of milestones?

The all-new Lexus NX F-Sport is priced from RM389,888 whereas the Luxury variant starts from RM370,888. For more information on Lexus NX, visit this website.