2016 Lexus NX 200t: When Design Exceeds Performance

“Since its launch in 2015, the NX has helped broaden the appeal of the Lexus brand,” said Jeff Bracken, group vice president and general manager, Lexus. “It was important the NX go beyond utility with striking design and exciting performance. Beyond awards, the customer reaction to this vehicle is helping cement its reputation while enhancing the brand’s desirability for the next generation of luxury consumers.”

In November 2016, we had the opportunity to test the 2016 Lexus NX 200t. We drove the car for one week along the roads of Virginia while we were trying to find a good place for its photo shoot and the truth is that we were really impressed with its performance, fuel efficiency and interior design.

As you will see in the pictures, this SUV is epitomized by small but important details substantially influenced by the LF-NX concept vehicles that were introduced in hybrid form at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, and later at the Tokyo Motor Show, powered by an all-new turbo drivetrain.

Outside, the 2016 Lexus NX 200t shows a very aggressive and sporty design. The front fascia integrates Lexus’ signature “spindle” grille, LED headlamps, fog lamps, and daytime running lamps. It embraces a sculpted look with bold front and rear wheel arches that house standard 18-inch wheels.

An innovative, Lexus-first door handle with a hidden key barrel and integrated lighting provides the subtle attention to detail that meet the definition of luxury.

Lexus’ signature ‘L’ shaped combination tail lamps, each with seamless LED lighting, and bodywork that reflects the spindle grille complete the rear design.

Under the hood you’ll find a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. The abundant torque will impress you and the sounds when you switch the mode to Sport will have you eager to continue spirited driving along back roads. The 4-cylinder produces 235 hp, and its maximum 258 lb-ft of torque comes in at just 1,650 RPM. Lexus worked hard to reduce turbo lag and make the engine as responsive as possible, and it feels that way when driving around town. The 6-speed automatic transmission can be manually shifted with the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, and the NX is available in either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). These improvements and technology are key factor when it comes to the fuel efficiency of this vehicle offering 22-mpg city/28 highway/25 combined. AWD models lose 1 mpg off their combined rating, and Lexus recommends premium fuel for all NX 200t trims.

It’s hard combine sophistication, comfort and a sport look in the same place but Lexus did a great job to accommodate all of these characteristics in the 2016 Lexus NX 200t.

The 2016 Lexus NX 200t has been designed for agile driving, handling stability, turning posture and ride comfort, including yaw-rate response to steering input and stability on uneven road surfaces.

The foundation for the vehicle’s sophisticated suspension is a highly rigid body with extensive underbody reinforcement. The new body has a comprehensive package of reinforcements, additional bulkheads and spot welding, suspension braces, and the strategic use of body adhesive, laser-screw welding and high-rigidity glass adhesive.

We definitely won’t forget the feeling and the driving experience on board this sporty crossover.

Stepping into the NX feels like stepping into a sports car. The cabin design combines structural elements with luxurious yet functional materials and textures. The center console is the focal point, framed by bold silver-colored architectural elements and featuring kneepads on both sides. Leather-wrapped metal over high contrast metallic colors provides visual depth. The NX dashboard and console continue the Lexus concept of display and operational zones.

The multimedia system, accessed through a high-resolution seven-inch screen, also offers a Navigation upgrade.

The optional Navigation system can help guide you to your destination more efficiently with up to date and predictive traffic information, including detour preview, ETA calculation and low-fuel coordination with nearby fuel stations. Navigation also includes the subscription-free Lexus Enform App Suite and features 3D map views. The available Navigation also adds a second USB outlet.

Siri “Eyes Free” Mode is compatible with the iPhone and puts Apple’s Siri technology at your service. Siri lets you call contacts, select and play music from iTunes, get turn-by-turn navigation through Siri and Apple maps, and much more.

The seats, inspired by sports car design, coddle the driver and passenger, as you’d expect from a Lexus.

All-season comfort and viewing pleasure are a given in a Lexus luxury utility vehicle. The NX offers available heated or unheated and ventilated front seats. Standard dual-zone automatic climate control offers an available fuel-saving S-Flow mode that detects a front passenger and directs airflow only to the occupied front seat or seats.

Seating played a significant role in the cabin design. A quilted pattern in the seats and varied cushion thickness provide both support and style. The NX possesses a low hip point that helps optimize driver position and adds to the connection between the driver and the vehicle while increasing overall head room.

When it comes to technology and safety, the 2016 Lexus NX 200t has an array of innovative on-board technology, including an available Wireless Charging Tray, which enables Qi compatible phones to be charged. Other available technology includes the first application of a new Lexus Remote Touch Interface with a touch pad; Pre-Collision System with All-speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control; Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert; power folding rear seat and Lane Departure Alert.

The Lexus NX 200t is a Top Safety Pick Plus-rated vehicle by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. It aced every crash test, and its advanced forward-collision prevention system is available at the lowest price for its segment.

Conclusion: Power, stellar design, and fuel efficiency with a touch of luxury and excellent performance are the hallmarks of this exciting vehicle. The 2016 Lexus NX 200t will not disappoint you. Pricing starts at about $35K and rises to $44K when fully equipped. , this could be a great pick for you. Go to your closest Lexus dealership and schedule a test drive now.