Cumulative figures up to the end of November 2019 indicate that more than 501,000 new Lexus SUVs have been sold since the RX’s European introduction in 2000.

Now in its fourth generation, the RX remains Lexus’ best-selling SUV model in the region, with almost 275,000 delivered to customers. The RX also had the distinction of being the world’s first luxury hybrid SUV, with the launch of the RX 400h in 2005.

Since that first step, Lexus has continuously improved its self-charging hybrid technology and made it fundamental to its development of new generations of SUVs, including the mid-size NX, added to the line-up in 2014 and the new, compact UX, launched earlier in 2019.

Customers are increasingly keen to embrace Lexus hybrid power for its refinement, well-proven reliability, increasingly rewarding performance, and excellent efficiency. Today, Lexus hybrids can travel up to 50% of the time in zero emissions mode in congested urban environment, without the petrol engine having to be brought into play.

Almost half the 500,000 Lexus SUV sales have been hybrid models, while the proportion compared to conventionally powered versions has grown steadily. So far in 2019, hybrids have accounted for 63% of sales in the region as a whole*, and 96% in the Western European markets.

Lexus’ stable of SUVs also includes non-hybrid LX and GX models, available in Russia and other Eastern markets.

Reference:

*Lexus Europe sales include the European Union countries, Norway, Iceland and Switzerland, as well as the following Eastern markets: Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Caucasus region, Turkey and Israel.

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Here we focus on four stand-out features that exemplify Lexus’ intricate attention to details.

SUNROOF

ENGINEERING OPENNESS

One of the most popular options for any vehicle is the sunroof, as it allows passengers to enjoy open-air driving without having to fuss with a moving top. In the NX, the sunroof opening is larger than any of its competitors, providing a motoring experience much closer to that of a genuine convertible without any sacrifice to structural integrity.

In conventional designs, the mechanism and latch that powers the roof occupy about 30 percent of the roof opening. However, by creating the world’s first Forward Transfer Latch that moves the moon roof forward when it tilts up (not back as in conventional systems), Lexus engineers have succeeded in maximizing the opening (30 percent larger than conventional designs) without the need for creating a larger hole in the roof.

WIPER BLADES

NOTEWORTHY FORM AND FUNCTION

Unless it’s raining, no one pays much attention to a vehicle’s windshield wipers, but at Lexus, no detail goes ignored when it comes to the pursuit of perfection. The NX features new windshield wipers that not only perform better in the rain, they improve the vehicle’s overall appearance and driving character.

In contrast to conventional wiper blades, which feature four support points, the NX wipers have a single support point that eliminates the need for support arms, which in turn lowers the height of the blade. This results in reduced wind noise when driving and a clean appearance from both inside and outside the vehicle when not in use. And, a new fin design reduces lift along the entire blade ensuring excellent wiping performance during high-speed driving.

CUP HOLDER

SMALL, YET SPECIAL

With a total of six cup holders inside its spacious cabin, every one of the NX’s occupants has a place to store their drinking bottles, but unlike conventional cup holders, those for the driver and front-seat passenger are lined with elastomer, a high-friction material commonly found in the sole of athletic shoes.

Such front cup holders are specially developed for the vehicle that keeps plastic bottles from moving while the cap is being screwed on or off, thus allowing the driver to twist off the cap with only one hand. The rubber-like material does not deform when in contact with oils or grease (such as sun-bathing lotion) and is resistant to dust accumulation. It can also be removed and cleaned easily.

WOOD FINISHING

GORGEOUS DETAIL

There’s wood trim, and then there’s Shimamoku wood trim, which is a special treatment developed by Lexus where dark and light wood veneers are combined to create a truly unique and natural-looking surface.

The Shimamoku wood trim in the NX is finished with a treatment called “steel kenma”, where the wood shine is slightly taken off the finish by deliberately putting microscopic scratches onto the surface. This method, executed by Yamaha, can only be performed by a master craftsman and was previously used only on its finest grand pianos.

PS: A HIDDEN TREASURE

The tiny, twinkling studs on the knee bolsters are indeed the same as the ones on the LFA supercar.

• Lexus evolves the sophisticated sporty styling of the NX crossover
• Introduction of new spindle grille, revised front bumper and new alloy wheel designs
• LED headlights redesigned internally for Adaptive High-beam System and new-look LED rear lamp clusters, both with sequential turn indicators
• Interior changes include new colour options, revised switchgear and controls and an increase in size for the central multimedia EMVN screen from seven to 10.3 inches
• Lexus Safety System + introduced to the NX range

Since its launch in 2014, the NX crossover has quickly established itself as a key player in the Lexus range making up more than 30% of Lexus European sales since its launch. It has been successfully attracting customers – many of them new to the brand – with its combination of luxury, cool, contemporary design, intelligent packaging and enjoyable driving dynamics. Its sales success is further supported by a choice of full hybrid and petrol-electric engines, plus front and all-wheel drive options.

Its performance has been stronger than even Lexus anticipated, breaking sales forecasts in all the world markets where it is available, including Europe. To build on that momentum and maintain the NX’s strong appeal, Lexus has initiated a package of revisions and improvements, covering exterior and interior styling, safety and equipment features. The new NX makes its European debut at the Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA).

EXTERIOR STYLING REFINEMENTS

Lexus has preserved the strong design essence of the NX that has proved so appealing to customers and has focused on details that enhance its visual impact.

The signature spindle grille has a powerful new look that aligns it more closely with Lexus’ SUV models, the RX and LX. The design features a series of horizontal bars that extend all the way down to the lower lip. Wider spacing between the bars below the central pinch-point of the spindle emphasises the car’s width and adds a sense strength to the NX’s frontal appearance. This effect is accentuated by the introduction of larger, deeply recessed lateral air intake ducts, angled to emphasise the car’s broad stance.

Reshaping of the upper part of the front bumper creates a more fluid blending of the styling into the bonnet and front doors, creating a sleeker overall shape with excellent aerodynamics.

The LED headlamp units have a new internal arrangement to accommodate the Adaptive High-beam System (AHS), part of the Lexus Safety System + package that is newly available for the NX. The look is sporty and echoes the lighting design of the new LC luxury coupe. Sequential turn indicators are also new, both at the front and rear.

At the back, changes to the lower section of the rear bumper introduce elements of the spindle grille shape, amplifying the sense of a wide stance and low centre of gravity. New rear lamp clusters have an elongated shape with a black garnish that adds emphasis to the L-shaped lenses. On the petrol models – now re-named NX 300 – there are larger, chrome-framed exhaust outlets, while larger satin chrome trims have been added on the full hybrid NX 300h to accentuate the spindle motif.

Two new 18-inch alloy wheel designs are featured for Luxury and F SPORT models, both with a striking combination of bright machined and dark metallic finishes.

INTERIOR: AN AUTHENTIC DRIVER’S ENVIRONMENT WITH ADDED CONVENIENCE

The interior of the NX benefits from detailed changes that project a sportier character and an even more luxurious feel. There is also a focus on improving the ease of use, convenience and comfort of the equipment features, faithful to Lexus’ commitment to the principles of Omotenashi hospitality.

The most prominent change is in increase in size for the central multimedia display. In the case of the Lexus Premium Navigation, the screen has grown from seven to 10.3 inches, while for the Lexus Display Audio, the increase is from seven to eight inches.

The climate control panel in the centre console has been rendered more ergonomically efficient with a number of buttons being replaced by four easy-to-operate toggle switches. These have a high tactile quality with a raised pattern of small metallic Lexus L motifs. The central analogue clock has been made larger, with a clearer face and a more pronounced outer ring. As well as being easier to read, it has a GPS control that automatically adjusts the time as you drive through different time zones.

On the centre console, the NX features the latest generation touchpad control, larger in size for easier operation. The palm rest has been reshaped to provide better wrist support and the wireless charging tray has been made wider and longer to accommodate larger smartphones. The USB ports have been moved to a handier central position and have a higher amperage for faster charging of devices. On models equipped with a head-up display, the unit is now seamlessly integrated into the instrument panel, creating a smooth surface across the top of the dashboard.

NEW INTERIOR COLOUR OPTIONS

There are new colour options for the NX, with the addition of Rich Cream and Ochre upholstery and trim, together with the established White Ochre, Black and Dark Rose. Flare Red and Mustard Yellow are both new for the NX F SPORT models.

POWER REAR DOOR

The new NX gains the convenience of a power rear door with “no-touch” opening and closing function – when you approach the vehicle with the key on your person, all you need to do to open the door is move your foot beneath the rear bumper, where the motion will be picked up by a sensor. The tailgate

can be closed with a similar action. A lock reserve button next to the tailgate grab handle automatically locks the vehicle.

LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM +

The new NX gains the benefits of Lexus Safety System +. This equips the car with a range of active safety and driver assistance features, include a Pre-Collision System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Adaptive High-beam System, Lane Departure Alert and Road Sign Assist. Intelligent Parking Sensors are also available.

LEXUS CT 200h EVOLVES WITH SPORTIER STYLING, INTERIOR UPDATES & INNOVATIVE EQUIPMENT

• Updated exterior and interior styling for Lexus’ original hybrid luxury compact hatchback
• Added appeal for one of Lexus’ top-selling models – more than 300,000 global sales since 2011
• Revised, more modern frontal design and new alloy wheel designs
• New interior colour options and larger Lexus Navigation System display
• Specific design upgrades for the CT 200h F SPORT
• Range now available with Lexus Safety System + active safety and driver assistance features

When Lexus debuted the CT 200h at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, it introduced the compact hybrid hatchback to the luxury automobile segment. The CT 200h has become one the brand’s best-selling hybrid model; since its launch in 2011, Lexus has sold about more than 300,000 CT 200h globally, including about 75,000 in Europe, one the largest markets for this model.

With this latest update, Lexus looks to build on the model’s strengths and evolve upon the CT 200h’s well-earned reputation for efficiency and reliability, armed with a freshened exterior that embodies its exciting-to-drive nature — without compromising its user-friendliness and fuel economy.

“The CT 200h has been refreshed and revitalized by enhancing its progressiveness. Its updated design is more emotional and sporty, making it the ideal premium hybrid compact for younger customers who enjoy spirited driving, but still care about the environment,” said Chika Kako, the Chief Engineer of the CT 200h.

EXTERIOR DESIGN: A MORE DRAMATIC PRESENCE

From its inception, the 5-door Lexus CT 200h combines an automotive packaging solution that compliments its owner’s active lifestyle with an exciting-yet-comfortable driving experience and interior surroundings offering the latest technology, upscale design and materials.

The CT 200h now features a much more modern and aggressive front fascia, thanks to a new mesh pattern for the signature spindle grille that helps elevate the model’s sophistication. Also, the integrated bumper that ran across the grille just below the Lexus emblem is gone, as are the horizontal bars within the grille. The fog light bezels are now painted metallic grey and are surrounded by an outer frame with a triangular cross-section and sharp edges. The “arrowhead” DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) have been repositioned above the single-projector headlamps to create a sense of continuity with the side character lines of the car.

Collectively, these new styling elements give the CT200h a more modern, athletic, and yet sophisticated appearance, helping this compact 5-door command a powerful presence when seen from the front.

“We have pursued a new look by reversing the position of the LED headlight unit and DRL compared to the previous model. The result is a look that’s more aggressive than before. Moreover, the “L” motif of the DRL strengthens the Lexus signature,” said Tetsuo Miki, the Chief Designer of the CT 200h.

At the rear of the car are new “L”-signature shaped taillights that give the CT 200h a sportier, wider appearance. New wider rear combination taillights have been changed to an all-LED configuration, with brightly illuminating LED turn signals at the bottom of the assembly, strengthening the “L”-signature look, as well as making the new CT more visible from behind. The upper and lower lines of the light-emitting section of the taillights thicken as they curve outwards, accentuating the width of the taillights and providing the rear end with a strong, stable presence. The back door garnish — enveloping the Lexus badge between the rear glass and the taillights — adds some athletic appeal to the vehicle’s already sporty rear-end. Also, the lower part of the rear bumper is now metallic silver and black, and reshaped to enhance the vehicle’s aggressive appearance, while the rear reflector bezels have been painted metallic grey to match the fog light surrounds up front.

Spicing up the CT 200h’s profile are sportier wheels—from the base 15-in. pieces to the F SPORT’s 17-in. dark metallic alloys. Of note is the new ten-spoke 16-in. wheel that features a machined finish and dark metallic paint.

FRESH INTERIOR UPDATES

One peek inside the cabin, and it is easy to see that the CT 200h offers among the finest interiors in its class, thanks to high-quality materials, rich surface textures and an attractive form-follows-function overall styling philosophy.

A Lexus Navigation System that features a larger 10.3-in. wide display screen (versus the previous-generation’s 7-in. monitor) is newly available.

An expanded interior colour palette is available, featuring new combinations including striking two-tone smooth leather; a mix of fabric and long-wearing synthetic leather, and new all-fabric upholstery. A total of nine different ornamentation choices are available.

F SPORT

The CT 200h F SPORT receives significant design changes for 2018 that include black metallic paint and an updated mesh pattern for the spindle grille exclusive to the F SPORT. The new mesh pattern has also been added as a backdrop for both the fog light inserts and surrounds to match. This model receives high-grade headlights that house a single projector high/low-beam headlamp. Also, exclusive to the F SPORT is jet black plating used on the upper and lower front grille moulding and a metallic black centre lower trim garnish at the rear of the vehicle.

“The F SPORT attracts younger customers, so we’ve strengthened the vehicle’s exclusive black items to reinforce its sporty nature, namely the rear bezel and the rear lower garnish. The rear bezel has the same mesh design as the front grille, and the lower garnish is painted metallic black here while the normal grade color is silver,” the CT 200h Chief Designer Miki said.

For 2018, the CT 200h will offer new two-tone exterior paint schemes and distinctive new colours for the F SPORT model: Lava Orange CS (Crystal Sunshine) and Heat Blue CL (Contrast Layering).

Inside the cabin, the F SPORT boasts new exclusive interior combinations including two-tone leather, fabric a synthetic leather. An elegant Naguri ornamentation, which showcases high levels of Takumi craftsmanship, is exclusively available in the F SPORT.

LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM +

Another welcome addition to the updated Lexus CT 200h is the availability of the Lexus Safety System + that offers enhanced safety with advanced technologies such as Pre-Collision System (PCS), Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with steering wheel control function, Automatic High Beam (AHB) headlights, and Road Sign Assist (RSA).

LEXUS SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES CONTINUE THE PROGRESS TOWARDS ELIMINATION OF ROAD TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS

• Lexus Safety System + extended to the new NX and CT range
• Lexus Safety System + A introduced in the all-new LS flagship sedan

LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM + NOW AVAILABLE ON NX AND CT

The benefits of Lexus’ advanced safety technologies are being extended deeper into its model range with the Lexus Safety System + suite of active safety and driver assistance features being made available on both the new NX and CT model ranges.

This comprehensive upgrade of the cars’ safety provisions means that almost all new Lexus models sold in Europe will now benefit from Lexus Safety System +. This is true to Lexus’ “democratisation” strategy to make these safety technologies available to a greater number of customers, at an affordable price. It also reflects the brand’s commitment to improving road safety for all – driver, vehicle occupants, pedestrians and other road users alike – with ultimate aim of eliminating traffic accidents.

The Lexus Safety System + introduced to the new NX and CT specifications includes features which monitor the car’s surroundings and the driver’s responses, recognising certain collision risks and providing support to help prevent a collision happening, or lessening the consequences should an impact be unavoidable.

PRE-COLLISION SYSTEM

Lexus’ Pre-Collision system (PCS) can help the driver avoid a collision, or lessen the consequences of an impact, even at high speed.

PCS uses a millimetre-wave radar and camera mounted on the front of the car to scan the road ahead to detect obstacles or hazards. It functions both when driving straight ahead and when cornering. It also computes data collected from sensors around the car monitoring factors such as vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw rate inputs. This information helps the PCS determine the risk of a rear-end collision with a vehicle ahead.

If it calculates a high risk of an impact, it will trigger a warning buzzer and light up a “BRAKE” command in the multi-information display to alert the driver to take action. The moment the brake pedal is pressed, the system initiates a Pre-Collision Brake to provide optimum braking force. This can achieve deceleration of up to 40km/h, slowing the vehicle to reduce the severity of any impact, or potentially bringing the car to a stop before an impact occurs.

If the driver fails to respond to the alerts and does not apply the brakes, the Pre-Collision Brake will automatically deploy to reduce the vehicle’s speed.

PCS also provides a pedestrian protection function. If a pedestrian is detected in the vehicle’s path, automatic braking will be activated. This operates when the Lexus is travelling at between 10 and 80km/h.

ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL

The PCS’ radar is also used to provide Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), which helps the driver maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, working down to very low speeds and standstill. Once the way ahead is clear, the ACC will automatically and smoothly accelerate the vehicle back to its pre-selected cruising speed. If the car has been brought to a halt, the driver simply has to press the accelerator briefly for the system to be reactivated.

The ACC can operate in two modes: constant speed control, like a conventional cruise control system, or vehicle-to-vehicle distance control. With the latter mode, the driver can set long, medium or short vehicle-to-vehicle distances, according to preference or traffic conditions. The control settings selected are shown on the multi-information display.

LANE DEPARTURE ALERT

Lane Departure Alert uses the PCS camera, mounted on the windscreen behind the rear-view mirror, to track the vehicle’s course between lane markings painted on the road surface. If it detects that car is moving out of its lane without the turn indicators being used, it will light up a warning on the multi-information display and sound a buzzer, prompting the driver to steer back to the correct path. On the new NX, the driver will also experience haptic feedback through the steering wheel as an additional warning.

ADAPTIVE HIGH-BEAM SYSTEM

An adjustable LED Adaptive High-beam System (AHS) prevents the NX from dazzling other road users. Eleven independent LED chips in each headlight are enabled/disabled for precise control of the illuminated and non-illuminated areas. This means the driver can enjoy maximum, safe use of high beam lighting, improving their field of vision without the risk of dazzling other road users.¹

ROAD SIGN ASSIST

Road Sign Assist recognises traffic signs using the windscreen-mounted camera, repeating the information on the multi-information display. This helps prevent the risk of the driver failing to notice important warnings or commands on major routes, including speed limits and lane closures. The system can detect signs that are designed according to the international standards of the Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals.

LEXUS PRESENTS ITS VISION FOR FUTURE SAFETY WITH THE LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM + A IN THE ALL-NEW LS FLAGSHIP SEDAN

Lexus’ will take safety technologies to an even higher level in its all-new LS sedan, scheduled for launch at the end of 2017. This flagship model will be the first Lexus to benefit from further improvements to the functions of Lexus Safety System +, together with the introduction of even more sophisticated driving assistance and advanced pre-collision support in Lexus Safety System + A.

The Lexus Safety System + A package includes Active Steering Assist, a world-first technology that can help prevent collisions that cannot be avoided through automatic braking alone, and Front Cross Traffic Alert, which is designed to warn the driver of the possibility of collisions with vehicles approaching from either side at road intersections. In addition, Lexus CoDrive can assist the driver in staying in lane. Together, these features and others can deliver a high level of safe driving support.

The new LS is also equipped with other technologies for safer and more secure driving in a wide range of situations. The support they provide has been designed to be clear and intuitive, for example in the use of a large, colour head-up display (HUD) and multi-information display to present status notifications and information on vehicle behaviour when safety features are being deployed.

PRE-COLLISION SYSTEM WITH PEDESTRIAN ALERT AND ACTIVE STEERING ASSIST

The new LS is the first Lexus model to be equipped with a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Alert and Active Steering Assist, in addition to its established functions. This is a world-first technology that can pinpoint the location of a pedestrian and automatically control the car’s steering and braking.

With Pedestrian Alert, if there is a possibility of the vehicle colliding with a pedestrian ahead, the position of the pedestrian is shown in an animated graphic on the head-up display, contributing to the driver’s intuitive recognition of the situation. Pre-Collision System determines when there is a high risk of a collision with a pedestrian in the lane of travel, or with a continuous structure, such as a guardrail. If it calculates that that brake control alone will be insufficient to avoid a collision, steering assistance is provided, in addition to a driver alert and braking. When Active Steering Assist is deployed, the car will only move within a clearly marked lane. The system automatically checks for any vehicles in the car’s blind spots, including motorcycles.

LEXUS CODRIVE ADVANCED DRIVING ASSIST TECHNOLOGY

Lexus CoDrive adds Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) to the functions of the Adaptive Cruise Control to provide steering support in line with the driver’s intentions. It can significantly reduce the burden on the driver by providing seamless driving support on roads with many bends, or in traffic jams. It is co-ordinated with the head-up and multi-information displays to give the driver clear notification of the status of the support being provided.

LANE TRACING ASSIST

Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) provides lane-keeping support by way of steering control when Adaptive Cruise Control is in operation. As well as camera detection of lane markings, the system will trace the path of the vehicle ahead to enable assistance even when lines cannot be recognised, for example when driving in low-speed congestion, when there is little space between vehicles.

TWO-STAGE ADAPTIVE HIGH-BEAM SYSTEM

The two-stage Adaptive High-beam System (AHS) provides optimal lighting by way of separate on/off control of the two rows of LEDs – eight upper and 16 lower – in each headlight. This enables finer control of light strength and distance compared to the current LED-based AHS. This improves night-time visibility by allowing more frequent driving with the headlights on high beam, without dazzling preceding or oncoming vehicles.

FRONT CROSS TRAFFIC ALERT

Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA) is designed to help prevent collisions at intersections by detecting approaching vehicles. Using side-looking radars, the advanced system alerts driver to a vehicle approaching an intersection ahead from either side. If the driver proceeds, regardless of there being another vehicle approaching from left or right, warnings are given by a buzzer and on the LS’ multi-information display.

ROAD SIGN ASSIST

The Road Sign Assist (RSA) in the new LS makes use of navigation maps as well as a camera to acquire road sign information, which it then presents on the vehicle’s head-up and multi-information displays, reducing the risk of the driver failing to recognise signs and encouraging safe driving.

IMPROVEMENTS TO LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM + FUNCTIONS

Lexus has further evolved the performance of the PCS, LDA and Adaptive Cruise Control in Lexus Safety System +, featured in combination with Lexus Safety System + A in the new LS.

PRE-COLLISION SYSTEM

The improved Pre-Collision System (PCS) can detect cyclists and night-time pedestrians and has improved deceleration performance during automatic braking. For example it can slow the vehicle by as much as 60km/h when a pedestrian is detected, thus improving its collision prevention performance.

LANE DEPARTURE ALERT

As well as detecting lane markings on the road surface, Lane Departure Alert (LDA) will also be able to recognise the boundaries between asphalt and other elements, such as grass, dirt or kerbstones, thanks to advances in its recognition capability. This will allow it to perform its functions of alerting the driver and adjusting steering feedback and torque to encourage a return to the correct line, even on roads without line markings.

ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL

The Adaptive Cruise Control achieves outstanding basic recognition performance with wide-angle detection, using a new millimetre-wave radar and a camera with a wider forward recognition range. The system also helps make driving more comfortable, with smooth acceleration at start-up and during following, departure and acceleration, for a sense of security for occupants. It also gives smooth deceleration in the case of a rapid change in in speed.

ADDITIONAL ACTIVE SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES

The new LS will further benefit from additional active safety technologies that will help protect the vehicle and occupants by alerting the driver to collision risks when parking and providing a view of the area immediately around the vehicle when manoeuvring or cornering.

PARKING SUPPORT BRAKE

The LS’s low-speed braking support systems have been integrated in a single package, with the aim of reducing damage when parking, when the driver needs to take account of nearby moving vehicles and pedestrians and stationary objects such as walls and street furniture. The world’s first rear pedestrian support brake has been added to the existing Intelligent Parking Sensors and Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Braking. This detects pedestrians behind the vehicle using a rear camera; if there is a risk of a collision, alerts and brake control are triggered.

PANORAMIC VIEW MONITOR WITH SIDE CLEARANCE AND CORNERING VIEW FUNCTIONS

Side clearance view and cornering view functions have been added to the Panoramic View Monitor, making it easier for the driver to determine the safe space around the vehicle. Side clearance view produces an image on the LS’s display monitor that shows the area in front of the car as if seen from a high position above the rear of the vehicle, giving the driver better sight of the space on each side of the car, for example when passing another car on a narrow road. When side clearance view is operating, cornering view automatically produces an image of the vehicle as seen from the rear at an angle in line with the car’s direction when moving through a bend or turn. These help the driver confirm left or right turns can be made safely on narrow roads and avoid driving up onto the kerb.

¹AHS is available across Lexus range except the CT model, which is equipped with Automatic High Beam (AHB) headlight system, which maximises night-time visibility by automatically switching to low beam when it detects the lights of oncoming traffic or vehicles ahead.

LEXUS PIONEERS A RADICAL NEW APPROACH TO THE PRESS CONFERENCE AT THE 2017 FRANKFURT MOTOR SHOW

In line with its pioneering spirit, Lexus introduces a radical new way of communicating news and information to the media at the 2017 Frankfurt motor show.

Its new, disruptive approach is another example of how Lexus is applying the human-centred principles of Omotenashi – the best traditions of Japanese hospitality – to deliver the highest standards of service. In this case, understanding and anticipating the needs of journalists and broadcasters has inspired a flexible news-sharing method that makes imaginative and practical use of augmented reality technology.

This means there will be no fixed time for a Lexus press conference during the busy press day schedule. Instead, media representatives can call at the Lexus booth at a time that suits them, equip themselves with a pair of augmented reality glasses (Microsoft HoloLens) and make a “guided tour” of the stand with commentaries and presentations by Alain Uyttenhoven, Head of Lexus Europe, and Lexus product specialists.

Pioneering this “press conference on demand”, Lexus believes it will be effective in communicating its key messages to the media in an engaging, thorough and time-efficient fashion.

The concept and its design are fully aligned with Lexus’ core values of Omotenashi customer service and the pioneering use of imaginative technologies. These values are fundamental not only to all new Lexus vehicles, but also to the way in which it is developing its business as a highly innovative, multi-dimensional lifestyle brand, reaching beyond the luxury automotive sphere.

HOW THE CONCEPT WORKS

Accredited journalists are able to call at the Lexus stand at any time during the press days. After introducing themselves at the welcome desk, they will be given a pair of augmented reality glasses – the Microsoft HoloLens.

A virtual reality host will then guide them around the stand, viewing the exhibits while seeing and hearing speeches and insights from virtual speakers, together with information graphics, 3D animations and video content. The effect is similar to a car’s head-up display, in which information is projected on the windscreen within the driver’s field of vision.

The content, including the speeches by Alain Uyttenhoven, Head of Lexus Europe, and Lexus product specialists, is the same for each user. It includes a welcome from the communications team, information on the new CT and NX models, an update on Lexus’ business performance and a look ahead to what is coming next for the brand. In all, the presentation takes just 10 minutes.

The Lexus booth will be located in Hall 8.0, stand A20. The press conference presentation will be available on-demand at any time during the show’s press days (12 and 13 September).

EUROPEAN PREMIERES FOR THE NEW LEXUS NX AND REFRESHED CT

Lexus will host two European product premieres at the upcoming Frankfurt International Motor Show, presenting the new NX luxury compact crossover and the refreshed CT premium compact hatchback.

As a nimble urban crossover, the NX has enjoyed rapid success since its launch three years ago. The appeal of its expressive styling, spacious packaging, comfort, safety and driving dynamics have helped the model make a significant contribution to Lexus’ global sales growth. It is now poised to exceed customer expectations with updated exterior styling, interior enhancements and equipment features with improved convenience and functionality.

Lexus introduced the compact hybrid hatchback to the luxury car market with the debut of the CT 200h at the 2010 Geneva motor show. With this latest update, the model has undergone evolutionary changes with sportier styling, an enhanced cabin and new equipment features. These have been designed to build on the model’s established strengths and add to its reputation for efficiency, reliability and driver-appeal.

LEXUS BRAND ICONS ON DISPLAY

The new NX and refreshed CT will share the spotlight with Lexus’ two new flagship models: the all-new LS flagship sedan and LC luxury coupe. These halo vehicles best exemplify Lexus’ new global communications strategy and tagline, “Experience Amazing”, and are central to one of the busiest years in the brand’s history.

To assert its status as a global luxury lifestyle brand, Lexus is also presenting some of its recent creative collaborations in the worlds of fashion, cinema and design.

These include the futuristic SKYJET featured in Luc Besson’s sci-fi epic Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets, which premiered in cinemas worldwide this summer. Lexus worked with the film’s creative team to bring to life their vision of the SKYJET, a single-seat pursuit craft that plays a central role in the movie’s action sequences.

A RADICAL NEW APPROACH TO THE MOTOR SHOW PRESS CONFERENCE

In line with its pioneering spirit, Lexus is going to redefine the traditional press conference, with a radical new way of communicating news to the media at Frankfurt motor show.

Its new, disruptive approach is another example of how Lexus is applying the human-centred principles of Omotenashi – the best traditions of Japanese hospitality – to deliver the highest standards of service.

There will be no fixed time for a Lexus press conference during the busy press day schedule. Instead, media representatives can call at the Lexus booth at a time that suits them, equip themselves with a pair of augmented reality glasses and make a “guided tour” of the stand with commentaries and presentations by Alain Uyttenhoven, Head of Lexus Europe, and Lexus product specialists.

The Lexus booth will be located in Hall 8.0, stand A20. The press conference presentation will be available on-demand at any time during the show’s press days (12 and 13 September).

Good afternoon!

Lexus is – again – coming with great news to the Paris Motor Show, and I’m extremely happy to stand in front of you today!

If we look back over the last couple of years, Lexus underwent a tremendous change.

We have fully rejuvenated our line-up and added exciting new models such as NX and RC, as well as a growing range of performance cars including the RC F and the GS F.

Today, we offer the broadest line-up of premium hybrid vehicles in the industry - no less than 10 models globally! We sell more premium hybrid vehicles than any other manufacturer, by far!

And our region leads: no less than 98% of Lexus sales in Western Europe are hybrids.

Our design has become much bolder, our cars more emotional, and this, while retaining Lexus’ ultimate craftsmanship and quality credentials.

And we are very pleased to see that our efforts are met with enthusiast consumer response on the global market. In Europe for instance, the home of the premium car market, with probably the most demanding customers, Lexus has a clear lead in many customer satisfaction surveys.

This also results in a sustained sales momentum, with double-digit year-on-year sales growth. We are well on our way to exceed our target of 70 thousand sales in Europe this year, a new record for our brand.

But Lexus transformation is only starting to unfold and there’s much more to come in the near future to establish Lexus as a truly global luxury lifestyle brand.

The LC, our new flagship coupe, which we revealed earlier this year, is the symbol of this journey. LC is pure emotion, both from design and driving perspectives, supported by innovative technologies.

With LC, we introduce our next generation performance hybrid system: the Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System. This new powertrain brings more power, greater acceleration higher efficiency, and last but certainly not least, more fun to drive.

LC is coming on the market next year, but this summer we already took it to an extensive tour in Europe, from the Nürburgring to Goodwood, from Madrid to Amsterdam, to connect with customers and car enthusiasts. We wanted to hear their first-hand feedback, and their response was fantastic!

Our next product launch is just around the corner and I am very happy to present it today, for the first time in Europe: the new Lexus IS sports sedan.

The IS is one of Lexus’ most successful models ever. Since the launch of the first generation, back in 1999, we have delivered more than one million units to consumers worldwide.

The new IS features revised exterior styling, an even more refined cabin and enhanced equipment such as a multimedia screen up to 10.3 inches.

Also, we have revised suspensions and steering for an even better dynamic experience, and the new IS now includes our benchmark package of active safety technologies, the Lexus Safety System +.

You can expect the new IS in Lexus showrooms by January next year.

Now… time to look deeper into the future! And I’m referring to the vehicle hidden behind this screen, which you will discover in a few moments.

This vehicle is all about anticipation but it is also rooted in Lexus’ unparalleled expertise in the SUV market.

In the 90’s Lexus pioneered the premium SUV world with the RX and the LX, for the first time in the industry combining off-road capabilities with premium luxury. Then in 2004, we launched the RX hybrid, the first premium hybrid SUV on the market.

In 2014 we further expanded our line-up with NX demonstrating that ‘Utility’ can be combined with a unique, striking design personality. And NX is already our best-seller in Europe!

From the outset our vision for SUVs was based on luxury and quality, then expanded to innovative hybrid technology and striking design.

Now we are ready for the next chapter - even bolder, even more emotional and unique on the market.

I am very proud to introduce today, in world premiere, our vision of the premium urban crossover of the future. Ladies and gentlemen, here is the Lexus UX Concept!

The dynamic compact SUV packaging is designed to appeal to progressive, urban customers who live in an ever-connected environment.

The UX Concept delivers an immersive driver experience with futuristic 3D holographic displays and other innovative electronic features. The seat design is inspired by Lexus’ Kinetic Seat Concept … a ground breaking technology that stimulates the drivers’ senses by involving the whole body in the driving experience.

The UX Concept showcases a modern expression of Lexus’ ultimate craftsmanship … married with hi-tech manufacturing techniques.>

This is what we call a design statement! It’s clearly a Lexus, you can recognize all our signature elements: the spindle grille, the L-shaped lights, the striking lines… but in an entirely new execution, and one that will turn heads.

And by the way, the UX Concept was conceived here in France, in ED2, our European Design Centre. Our design philosophy has Japanese roots, but it is also truly global in its expression.

As highlighted by this new concept, Lexus always seeks to anticipate. We are passionate about cars … about design, quality, driving emotions, and not to forget … customer experience. In the coming months and years, we will work even harder to transmit our passion to consumers worldwide.

Thank you for your attention!

Following the success of the Lexus CT and IS Sport editions, the brand's mid-size Crossover, the NX, will also be equipped with the Sport package.

Available on the NX 300h and NX 200t models, the Sport edition includes exclusive exterior and interior visual design features, while the F SPORT grade additionally provides dynamic enhancements and more aggressive styling.

The NX Sport features Black alloy 18’’ wheels, Black capped door mirrors, and a Black finish to the spindle grille and its frame.

The NX Sport interior is finished with an exclusive choice of fabric or synthetic leather seats, both available in Black and Garnett with silver inserts.

Exclusive to the Business and Comfort grades, the Sport edition aims at increasing the accessibility of the NX’s sporting design enhancements.

The NX Sport edition will be available in most European countries from October 2016.

Lexus has no peers when it comes to reliability, being the only manufacturer accorded a top five-star rating in the 2016 Which? Car Survey.

The survey results were calculated from the real-world ownership experiences of almost 60,000 people, taking into account issues such breakdowns, repair costs, common faults and the number of days vehicles have had to be taken off the road to correct problems.

Lexus achieved strong results across the board in the Which? guide to the best new and used buys in different market categories. The NX crossover was named the best compact SUV on the new car market, with a five-star reliability rating, while the second and third generation RX models were revealed as the two best large SUVs for used vehicle customers. The IS and GS saloons also achieved top-four placings in the large and luxury car categories, while the CT 200h hatchback was given a “best buy” recommendation among new medium-size models.

Ewan Shepherd, Lexus Director, said: “Which? is respected worldwide for the accuracy and thoroughness of its product testing and investigations, which makes this result especially rewarding for us. Lexus’s reputation is built on not just developing excellent vehicles, but also on providing our customers with an exceptional ownership experience, so it is hugely encouraging to receive such positive feedback and support for what we are delivering with our model range and the service we are providing in our showrooms and workshops.”

Which? is not alone in finding that Lexus provides lasting quality and satisfaction, new or old. This year’s Auto Express Driver Power survey was an unprecedented success for Lexus, with models claiming first, second and three other places in the top 10, and Autocar declaring the IS executive sports saloon its Used Car of the Year.

• Third generation RX luxury SUV named the UK’s most reliable car, ahead of the current IS sedan
• Lexus GS placed fourth, with NX and CT rounding off the top 10-rated models
• Clean sweep in survey’s top three for build quality for NX, and second and third generation RX
• Four Lexus models in the top 10 “best cars to own”
• Survey based on the real-world experiences of almost 50,000 motorists

London, United Kingdom - Lexus has achieved unprecedented success in Auto Express’s search for the UK’s most reliable cars. The results of the 2016 Driver Power survey see the third generation RX luxury SUV achieving the highest rating, narrowly ahead of the current IS saloon.

A top-three clean-sweep was only prevented by the achievement of the Toyota Land Cruiser in third place, shading out the current Lexus GS saloon. To complete the emphatic performance, the NX crossover and CT premium hatchback rounded off the survey’s top 10 models.

In fact every Lexus model eligible for the survey is featured. The absence of the RC coupe (only recently launched) and the LS limousine is that they have not achieved the sales volumes required for inclusion.

Auto Express declared Lexus has “smashed” the survey, which brings together the real-world experiences and opinions of almost 50,000 motorists. Announcing the results, it said: “A new Lexus RX was launched in 2015, but given the Japanese marque’s formidable performance, who would bet against the new version repeating the success of its predecessor, which tops our reliability chart this year.”

Turning to the IS, it describes how the car “doesn’t take any prisoners when it comes to reliability,” an area where it has “forged a reputation for excellence”. The GS is praised for its “luxuriously appointed and high-spec’ interior” and the NX is recognised for adding excellent reliability to the qualities that it shares with its larger RX sister model.

Ewan Shepherd, Lexus Director, said: “We strive to give our customers complete peace of mind when it comes to being able to rely on their car, day in, day out. Their level of satisfaction is clearly communicated in this extraordinary survey result, vindicating everything we do to deliver the highest quality in all our models.

“It is also significant that their opinions are in the great majority based on their experiences with our hybrid technology, confirming yet again the lasting quality and trustworthy performance of Lexus Hybrid Drive.”

Lexus also performed strongly in other Driver Power categories, notably posting a one-two-three for build quality with the NX and second and third generation RX models. In the “best car to own” results, which take in performance across all survey criteria, Lexus claimed four of the top 10 places with the IS (the top-rated car in 2015) in fourth, GS in fifth, third generation RX in sixth and second generation RX in 10th.

And if you want to know which car has the comfiest seats, the survey reveals that honour, too, goes to the third generation Lexus RX.

Brussels, Belgium - Tokuo Fukuichi, President of Lexus International, said: “The hybrid system continues to be our signature powertrain technology. We have set ambitious environmental goals for 2050, the popularity of the hybrid technology worldwide is extremely important for us to achieve those goals. I’m extremely happy that over 1 million customers worldwide have put their faith into our Lexus hybrid line-up.”

Mr Pirronello commented: 'This is my first Lexus. I chose this brand because I really value it. When I saw the new Lexus NX 300h, I've been immediately captured by its design, and of course by the hybrid technology that made me enthusiastic. I was surprised to hear that I was the buyer of the 1.000.000th hybrid Lexus, and I am honoured to celebrate this important milestone with Lexus!'

Lexus launched the industry’s first full hybrid premium SUV, the RX 400h, in April 2005. Gradually, the brand expanded its hybrid line-up by launching the first full hybrid premium sedan, the GS 450h, in 2006, followed by the most powerful luxury hybrid sedan, the LS 600h in 2007, the HS 250h in 2009 and the first luxury hybrid compact, the CT 200h, in 2011. The ES 300h was launched in 2012, then the IS 300h and the GS 300h in 2013, and the first luxury mid-sized crossover, the NX 300h, in 2014. The first luxury hybrid sports coupe, the RC 300h, was launched globally at the end of 2015. Today, Lexus sells 10 hybrid models and is the luxury brand with the widest hybrid line-up.

Europe is the largest hybrid market worldwide for Lexus. In 2015, 64% of all Lexus cars sold in Europe were hybrid, a proportion that rises to 95% in Western Europe. Lexus is by far the largest hybrid premium brand in Europe, with a market share of over 45%, or 77% if plug-ins are excluded.

‘’Since 2005, full hybrid technology has been the signature powertrain technology for Lexus. In addition to great fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions - which lead to low costs of ownership - it also provides a smooth and engaging driving experience with a high level of ride comfort. So it doesn’t come as a surprise, that it scores the highest satisfaction rates among our customers” said Alain Uyttenhoven.

Earlier this year, Lexus premiered its latest full hybrid model, the LC 500h, which features a new generation performance full hybrid technology called Multi Stage Hybrid System (MSHS). The MSHS expands further the hybrid advantages by delivering more power, greater acceleration and traction and higher efficiency. The LC 500h will be available for sale in the spring of 2017.

“I am sure that our new performance hybrid system will make the hybrid vehicles even more successful attracting even those customers who have never considered a hybrid before.” concluded Alain Uyttenhoven.

Hybrid vehicle sales by region: 

Hybrid vehicle sales by model:

Images show the following people (from left):

Mariano Autuori, Head of Lexus Italy

Franco Spotorno, Lexus Milan retailer

Aldo Pirronello, the customer

Alain Uyttenhoven, Head of Lexus Europe

Andrea Carlucci, CEO of TMI

Brussels, Belgium - Lexus Europe sold 18,058 vehicles in the first three months of 2016, an increase of 16% compared to the first quarter of 2015, in a premium market which increased at a slower pace (+10%).

Alain Uyttenhoven, Head of Lexus Europe, commented: “The second half of 2015 was marked by an intensive string of new model introductions, including RX, GS F, RC and GS in all European markets as well as LX and ES in the Eastern markets, and we are delighted to see such positive customer response. We are committed to further increase the strength of the Lexus brand in Europe and we look forward to a very successful 2016.”

This quarter marked the start of sales of the all-new, fourth generation RX, which recorded a 114% sales increase over Q1 2015 to reach 4,024 units. Overall, NX remained the best seller among the Lexus range, with 6,315 units sold, sustaining the level of sales reached in Q1 2015 in full launch period.

Also launched in Eastern markets at the end of 2015, the new LX achieved an impressive 165% sales growth to reach 1,456 units, while sales of the revised ES increased by 19% to 475 units.

Hybrid sales continued to attract more customers, reaching 12,141 units (+14%) or about two-thirds of Lexus sales, led by NX 300h (4,672 units), CT 200h (2,445 units) and RX 450h (2,362 units).

Last year also marked the roll-out of a line-up of models equipped with Lexus’ new 2.0L turbo engine: NX 200t, RX 200t, GS 200t, IS 200t and RC 200t. In total, these models already represented 12% of Lexus sales during the first quarter of 2016, with Russia and Poland being the largest markets.

There was substantial sales growth in all parts of the region managed by Lexus Europe, with increases in excess of 20% in several markets including France, Germany, Belgium, Ireland, Poland, Israel, Ukraine as well as Russia (+23%) – the latter despite challenging market conditions (premium market down 14% during the quarter).

Brussels, Belgium - Sales in Europe increased 20 percent to approximately 64,000 vehicles, the most for a major market in percentage terms; including a 31 percent gain in Western Europe. Sales in China increased to approximately 88,500 vehicles, a 14 percent increase; and North America sales increased to approximately 368,000 vehicles, a 12 percent gain. Accentuating its luxury hybrid leadership, with almost 1 million hybrid Lexus vehicles sold to date, hybrid sales globally were approximately 149,000 vehicles and accounted for 23 percent of sales.

Mark Templin, Executive Vice President at Lexus International said: “2015 was an amazing year for Lexus International. In addition to the new and redesigned models in our stable, we began rolling out our most advanced vehicle safety portfolio – Lexus Safety System +, and began ES production in North America. Our entire vehicle line-up design has evolved to be more bold and emotional, and our brand initiatives are resonating as an extension of the Lexus ownership experience. We appreciate luxury consumers taking notice and honoring us with a fourth straight year of double digit percentage growth.”

At Lexus, we believe growth is the product of doing the right things for our customers and building brand advocacy. The following are just some of the activities we undertook and industry honors received in 2015.

Initiatives

The first INTERSECT BY LEXUS luxury brand experience space outside Japan opened in Dubai, UAE. This new two story space is located in the heart of the Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC).

Lexus named the first automaker winner ofthe Milano Design Award for Best Entertainingfor its "Lexus – A Journey of the Senses" exhibit at Milan Design Week, the world's largest design exhibition. Additionally, the first-ever Lexus Design Award Grand Prix winner was announced.

The third Lexus Short Films Series winners announced at the Napa Valley Film Festival. In 2013, Lexus Short Films was launched with the goal of supporting and nurturing a new generation of emerging filmmakers.

Lexus partnered with leading super conductive technology experts to create one of the most advanced Hoverboards ever. The Lexus Hoverboard is part of the global ‘Amazing in Motion’ campaign.

Lexus Safety System +, a portfolio of active safety technologies designed to help prevent or mitigate collisions across a wide range of vehicle speeds package began rolling out in Europe, Japan and North America.

Honors

Lexus named the Luxury Brand with the Best Resale Value in Kelley Blue Book’s 2016 Best Resale Value Awards. This is the fifth year in a row Lexus has been named the luxury brand with the best projected retained value through the initial five-year ownership. Six 2016 Lexus models were honored with Best Resale Value for their perspective vehicle categories: RC 200t/RC 300/RC 350, ES 300h, GS 200t/GS 350, RX 450h, GX 460, and LX 570.

The NX 200t was awarded ‘Best Compact Premium SUV’ at the 2015 Middle East Car of the Year Awards (MECOTY).

CT was the overall winner in the Car Environmental List, an annual evaluation by the Traffic Association Germany (VCD).

Lexus topped the largest car satisfaction surveys, Autoindex, in Sweden and Norway, for the fourth time.

Lexus dominated the Auto Express Driver Power 2015 survey, receiving six awards including those for best manufacturer and – for the IS sedan – best car. The IS also took the top spot in the best compact executive car category and was the highest­ rated model for ease of driving. The NX was named best car for build quality within its first six months on the road in the UK.

The independent German institute for environmental research ‘Ökotrend’ (Ecological Trend) and the car magazine ‘Auto Test’ recognized the GS 300h as the most ecological car in the premium middle class. The evaluation of the vehicle’s environmental performance was conducted based on its fuel consumption and emissions for its entire life cycle, including production, logistics and recycling.

RX achieved the best-ever pedestrian protection score out of all large SUVs ever tested by Euro NCAP and achieves a 5 –Star rating.

CT , ES, RC, and NX, earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) TOP SAFETY PICK+, IIHS’s highest recognition for crashworthiness and front crash prevention.

Lexus ranked highest in vehicle dependability among all nameplates for a fourth consecutive year in the 2015 J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS). The ES ranked highest in the Compact Premium Car segment and the GX was awarded among Midsize Premium SUVs. The ES was the highest ranked model among all vehicles in the study.

Sales by Region

North America: Approximately 368,000 vehicles, 12 percent increase

China: Approximately 88,500 vehicles, 14 percent increase

Europe: Approximately 64,000 vehicles, 20 percent increase

Japan: Approximately 48,000 vehicles, 9 percent increase

Middle East: Approximately 44,400 vehicles, 5 percent increase

East Asia and Oceania: Approximately 30,000 vehicles, 10 percent increase

Other markets combined: Approximately 9,400 vehicles, 26 percent increase

For more information, please visit the following:

newsroom.lexus.eu

lexus-int.com

intersect-by-lexus.com

lexusshortfilms.com

lexusdesignaward.com

True to its mission of "creating amazing" and inspired by the craftsmanship that goes into every vehicle it makes, Lexus commissioned a team of ice sculpture specialists to explore how ice could be used in place of conventional alloy metal and rubber.

After three months' research, design and testing, the finished wheels were fitted to a Lexus NX for the ultimate ice drive. The car itself was deep-frozen, stored for five days at -30°C (it started first time) before being driven off down a London road.

The addition of in-wheel LED lighting added an extra dramatic dimension to the cutting-edge contemporary styling of the NX.

The project was undertaken by Hamilton Ice Sculptors, a London-based business established for more than 35 years with world-leading experience in producing innovative and large-scale works. For the Lexus commission — the first of its kind — genuine NX wheels and tyres were laser scanned and replicated using computer design and numerical control techniques. The result was an unprecedented fusing of art and engineering.

Just as the skills of Lexus's famous takumi craftspeople are used to achieve the highest quality, the human hand and eye were fundamental to the success of the project. Four sculptors worked for 36 hours to produce each wheel. The millimetre-perfect finish was achieved with hand-crafting, using Japanese steel chisels and shaping tools. Even the tread patterns on the tyres were faithfully reproduced.

The ice was made from softened water taken from a moving flow to ensure it was perfectly clear when taken from the freezer. Acrylic inserts were added to ensure the wheels could take the load of the NX.

Richard Balshaw, Lexus Director, said: "Creating Amazing is what Lexus is about. Projects such as our hoverboard, the origami-inspired cardboard car and now a dazzling set of fully functioning ice wheels, demonstrate how we use advanced technologies and the best craftsmanship traditions to achieve outstanding results. That's not just for eye-catching one-off projects, but for the cars we deliver to our customers, too."

The films can be watched on the Lexus UK YouTube channel:

- Feature film: https://youtu.be/u9CGTCD35Kg

- Making of: https://youtu.be/mc5wZNGNMlQ

#NXontrack - Lexus Europe, today unveiled an innovative film which sees global entrepreneur and musician, will.i.am challenged to create a remix of one of his most iconic tracks, #thatPOWER in a breath-taking music, art and technology spectacular.

Played out on a disused runway lined with more than 350 projected mapped motion and audio sensitive lasers and lights, the front-man battles against speed and rhythm to conduct and navigate a trio of striking Lexus NX's, hitting the laser 'targets' at the correct tempo to synchronise with his smash hit.

The unprecedented live event, shot in one night last week, sees the musician's skills put to the test as he joins three stunt drivers including 2013 Blockbuster, Rush frontman, Niki Faulkner, to take on the colossal 'sound-road', race against rhythm and successfully complete the challenge in the limited hours of darkness available before the sun rise.

Speaking about the video, will.i.am said ''Working with the stunt guys to hit the laser targets in time with the music wasn't easy to get right but the result was awesome. The combination of technology, design and music in this project was out of this world."

A team of sixty-five technicians worked for over seven days to build the rigging for the lights and motion sensitive lasers, designed by world-renowned light artists, Marshmallow Laser Feast (MLF), who has previously worked with the likes of Coldplay and U2.

MLF Creative Director, Barnaby Steel, said: "Together with Lexus, we've created a huge musical game with three stunt drivers as the players and will.i.am as the conductor. Music is brought to life when the cars hit beams of light that are motion sensitive at the correct time and rhythm. It's basically like a giant laser harp with cars instead of fingers. The challenge for will.i.am and the drivers was to navigate the light points on tempo. When they fell off beat and triggered notes off tempo, the system would have to restart."

Alain Uyttenhoven, Head of Lexus Europe, said: "We're projecting that the NX will represent one third of all Lexus sales across Europe this year, so it feels only right that we've created something as bold as this event with will.i.am — something that truly embodies our brand philosophy of Amazing in Motion!"

Launched in September 2014, the Lexus NX marks Lexus' entry into the mid-size premium SUV segment. Since its launch, the car has quickly become one of Lexus' fastest selling vehicles across Europe.

-ENDS-

About Lexus

Launched in 1989, Lexus has become renowned throughout the world for its pursuit of perfection, the outstanding quality and sophisticated high-technology content of its products, and for its unique concept of complete customer service. Further reinforcing the traditional Lexus values of unparalleled build quality, comfort and interior luxury, Lexus is currently rejuvenating its line-up, launching a new wave of emotional and inspirational products featuring bolder product execution, superior driving dynamics and state-of-the-art technologies. Today, Lexus remains the first - and only - premium automotive manufacturer to offer a comprehensive full-hybrid model range comprising the RX 450h, the GS 450h and GS 300h, the LS 600h, the ES 300h, the IS 300h and the CT 200h. In Europe, models featuring Lexus Hybrid Drive account for more than half of all Lexus sales. Lexus sold 53,230 vehicles in Europe in 2014 and aims to increase sales to exceed 60,000 vehicles in 2015.

• Exclusive F SPORT colour and interior features

• Front performance dampers for even greater handling stability

The F SPORT stands out from the rest of the NX model range through unique styling modifications, exclusive colour schemes and dynamic upgrades.

F SPORT grille and exterior

The mesh grille of Lexus performance models combines with a metallic coated lower bumper moulding to set the NX F SPORT apart. The large spindle aperture is graded from bottom to top to express the outline of the distinctive F SPORT motif. The unique frontal appearance of the NX F SPORT is further accentuated by the use of a sporting black coating on the door mirrors and the signature F SPORT emblem on the front quarter panel beneath the A-pillar.

A Lexus-first sports wheel offers the choice of two wheel colours and tyre sizes. A 225/60/18 10-spoke alloy combines black paint on the lateral edges with a luminous machine-brushed finish. A second 10-spoke wheel and tyre combination is a lower profile 235/55/18 with an exclusive dark metallic finish.

F SPORT-exclusive colour and interior

On board, the meter, steering wheel, gear shift, sport seats, pedals, gear shift, leather pad for passenger instrument panel and Dark Rose interior colour are all exclusive to F SPORT models.

Injection-moulded quilted seats hug the occupant's body to give improved support and lateral holding performance. Perforated non-slip aluminium pedals and a driver's foot brace provide practical assistance to agile diving. And the steering wheel leather is also perforated to provide even greater feel during performance driving.

The wheel carries the F SPORT emblem in its lower quadrant. The brushed metallic gear shift lever and the scuff plate ornamentation beneath the door are also exclusive to F SPORT models.

Performance dampers

The NX F SPORT is exclusively equipped with front and rear suspension performance dampers, enhancing rigidity and decreasing vibration to optimise handling stability.

G-sensor and boost meter

The NX F SPORT features a Lexus-first 'G-Monitor' in its full-colour Multi Information Display (MID).

On the G-Monitor screen, a G-ball moves in accordance with the vehicle's lateral and longitudinal forces. The MID displays the peak force in each direction. Additional display bars also indicate the steering angle, throttle opening angle and hydraulic brake pressure.

In turbocharged NX F SPORT models, the MID provides a Lexus-first turbo-boost meter with the colour band changing in the high boost pressure range. The analogue displays show oil temperature and pressure.

Takeaki Kato, NX Chief Engineer

Following the 2014 launch of the full hybrid Lexus NX 300h, the new NX 200t introduces the company's first turbocharged petrol engine to the model range.

The highly sophisticated 2.0 litre, in-line 4-cylinder engine features direct injection, variable compression and twin-scroll turbocharging, offering outstanding responsiveness with no turbo lag and enhanced low speed torque. It is the world's first petrol engine to combine twin -scroll turbocharging with an integrated exhaust manifold cylinder head.

The NX marks Lexus' entry into the mid-sized premium SUV segment. It has been conceived under the development concept of "Premium Urban Sports Gear", much like high quality sports watches, bikes and fashion, as an edgy and emotional design to appeal to new customers who lead urban and active lifestyles.

The highly competitive mid-size sports utility vehicle market is one of the fastest growing in the auto industry. Globally, demand for mid-size SUVs has grown almost seven-fold in the last seven years and it is expected to top one million per year in 2015.

Lexus pioneered the premium SUV segment with the launch of the RX in 1998. With the subsequent arrival of both the GX and LX, the company has gone on to established an enviable reputation for setting new benchmarks in quality, design flair and advanced technology in the premium SUV and 4x4 markets.

UNIQUE DESIGN, OPTIMAL PACKAGE

Its styling clearly influenced by the LF-NX concept vehicles revealed at the 2013 Frankfurt and Tokyo Motor Shows, the NX represents the latest and most progressive expression yet of the Lexus design language.

An exterior combining highly individual front grille styling with a low, cab-forward silhouette creates an aggressive, eye-catching SUV with a particularly powerful road presence designed to attract a new generation of younger, style-conscious customers to the Lexus brand.

The NX also delivers practical solutions to space and luggage requirements.

The F SPORT version provides a more aggressive and bolder design with exclusive styling and trim throughout.

CUSTOMER-FOCUSED INNOVATION

The new heights in innovation scaled by Lexus in the SUV market are widely represented on board the new NX with a comprehensive array of advanced, user-friendly technologies.

These include a Wireless Charging Tray for portable devices such as mobile phones, the first application of a new Lexus Remote Touch Interface with a Touch Pad, a 360 degree Panoramic View Monitor, an enhanced Multi-Information Display which includes a turbo-boost meter and a Lexus-first G sensor, and a 6.2'' Head-Up Display.

SPORTING DRIVING DYNAMICS, EFFICIENT POWERTRAIN

Available in either front- or all-wheel drive powertrain formats, the NX 200t has been designed to combine a sporting driving experience with the ride comfort associated with any Lexus and high levels of fuel efficiency.

Developing 238 hp, it makes extensive use of electronic advancements and chassis dynamics to produce a highly engaging ride and handling package that is spirited, agile and dynamic, yet still returns an average fuel consumption from just 7.7 l/100 km.

The driving dynamics are even more enhanced through the adoption of performance dampers on the F SPORT version.

COMPREHENSIVE SAFETY PACKAGE

Lexus has also redefined standards of safety and driver assistance in the SUV and 4x4 markets with the introduction of advanced active, passive and pre-emptive technology.

The new NX benefits from the company's most sophisticated safety systems, including the advanced Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), All-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Automatic High Beam (AHB) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).

The highly sophisticated 2.0 litre, in-line 4-cylinder engine features direct injection, variable compression and twin-scroll turbocharging, offering outstanding responsiveness with no turbo lag and enhanced low speed torque. It is the world’s first petrol engine to combine twin -scroll turbocharging with an integrated exhaust manifold cylinder head.

The NX marks Lexus’ entry into the mid-sized premium SUV segment. It has been conceived under the development concept of “Premium Urban Sports Gear”, much like high quality sports watches, bikes and fashion, as an edgy and emotional design to appeal to new customers who lead urban and active lifestyles.

The highly competitive mid-size sports utility vehicle market is one of the fastest growing in the auto industry. Globally, demand for mid-size SUVs has grown almost seven-fold in the last seven years and it is expected to top one million per year in 2015.

Lexus pioneered the premium SUV segment with the launch of the RX in 1998. With the subsequent arrival of both the GX and LX, the company has gone on to established an enviable reputation for setting new benchmarks in quality, design flair and advanced technology in the premium SUV and 4x4 markets.

UNIQUE DESIGN, OPTIMAL PACKAGE

Its styling clearly influenced by the LF-NX concept vehicles revealed at the 2013 Frankfurt and Tokyo Motor Shows, the NX represents the latest and most progressive expression yet of the Lexus design language.

An exterior combining highly individual front grille styling with a low, cab-forward silhouette creates an aggressive, eye-catching SUV with a particularly powerful road presence designed to attract a new generation of younger, style-conscious customers to the Lexus brand.

The NX also delivers practical solutions to space and luggage requirements.

The F SPORT version provides a more aggressive and bolder design with exclusive styling and trim throughout.

CUSTOMER-FOCUSED INNOVATION

The new heights in innovation scaled by Lexus in the SUV market are widely represented on board the new NX with a comprehensive array of advanced, user-friendly technologies.

These include a Wireless Charging Tray for portable devices such as mobile phones, the first application of a new Lexus Remote Touch Interface with a Touch Pad, a 360 degree Panoramic View Monitor, an enhanced Multi-Information Display which includes a turbo-boost meter and a Lexus-first G sensor, and a 6.2’’ Head-Up Display.

SPORTING DRIVING DYNAMICS, EFFICIENT POWERTRAIN

Available in either front- or all-wheel drive powertrain formats, the NX 200t has been designed to combine a sporting driving experience with the ride comfort associated with any Lexus and high levels of fuel efficiency.

Developing 238 hp, it makes extensive use of electronic advancements and chassis dynamics to produce a highly engaging ride and handling package that is spirited, agile and dynamic, yet still returns an average fuel consumption from just 7.7 l/100 km.

The driving dynamics are even more enhanced through the adoption of performance dampers on the F SPORT version.

COMPREHENSIVE SAFETY PACKAGE

Lexus has also redefined standards of safety and driver assistance in the SUV and 4x4 markets with the introduction of advanced active, passive and pre-emptive technology.

The new NX benefits from the company’s most sophisticated safety systems, including the advanced Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), All-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Automatic High Beam (AHB) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).

DESIGN AND PACKAGING

• Muscular and edgy exterior design with a strong SUV character

• Bold yet luxurious interior design combining prominent chrome elements with high quality leather and wood

• Driver-focused cockpit with ergonomically structured operation and display zones

• Ample interior space combining SUV functionality with Lexus luxury and comfort

The design of the new Lexus NX was substantially influenced by the 2013 LF-NX concept vehicles that were shown, first as a hybrid at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and then, powered by the all-new turbo drivetrain, at the Tokyo Motor Show.

Exterior

At a glance, the NX’s aggressive styling hints at both functionality and performance.

Chief Exterior Designer Nobuyuki Tomatsu designed it to combine urban practicality with a feeling of agility not usually associated with an SUV.

The NX combines a low roofline with an aggressive, cab-forward silhouette. Powerfully flared front and rear fenders are fused to a diamond-shaped body with lines generated from the spindle grille. The NX has the most individual and aggressive front face in the Lexus line-up, its prominent spindle grille accentuated by new LED headlamps and LED day time running lights (DRL).

The sleek side profile is accentuated by a roofline which falls towards the back of the vehicle. The bold, flared wheel arches housing 17 or 18-inch wheels provide a crouching, muscular stance.

The world’s first door handle mechanism to feature a hidden key barrel and integrated lighting combines with an aerodynamic door mirror design to enhance the premium appearance of the NX’s smooth, flowing lines.

Echoing the spindle grille design of the front, the rear of the NX features L-shaped combination lamps with seamless LED lighting.

The new NX 200t may be differentiated from the full hybrid 300h by a unique, trapezoidal twin exhaust design which highlights the installation of Lexus’ first small-displacement turbo.

Aerodynamics

The NX achieves an ideal balance of aerodynamics and design. Its compact shape proved particularly challenging during the aerodynamic development of the car. The adoption of a rear spoiler proved essential in creating a smooth airflow from the back of the vehicle, and extensive wind tunnel testing led to the trailing edge of the fin being given a slightly upturned lip. This detail not only created a striking design accent but also provided the best Cd value -just 0.33 (and for NX 300h even 0.32).

The front and rear spats, rear floor cover and engine undercover are newly developed for the NX. The shape and composition of the engine undercover offer both heat resistance and enhanced aerodynamics.

Lights and lamps

Lexus-first low energy consumption LED lights play a major role in defining NX’s design objectives. LEDs allow for faster illumination while saving energy. The NX incorporates a total of 90 LEDs.

Each headlamp cluster features 6 new, high-brightness LEDs, including 3 L-shape low beam lamps. 23 LEDs are used for the daytime running lamps and another 16 for turning signals on each side. Thick inner lenses give the units an eye-catching, crystal-like shine.

The NX also features adaptive cornering lamps with LEDs. When the turn indicators are activated two LED lamps operate automatically to better illuminate the bend ahead.

A design breakthrough in rear illumination and exacting production accuracy gives the NX a unique rear lamp signature; an uninterrupted flow of light crossing seamlessly from the tailgate to the body. The thick wall moulding technology adopted for the outer lens combines with inner refraction detailing to give the impression of a cut crystal glass lamp.

Door handle design

The newly designed door handle has no visible key hole, a world-first for a pull handle of this type. A structure has been devised that allows the key to be inserted behind the handle if necessary.

A single LED lamp both provides a welcoming silhouette along the top of the handle and a puddle light on the ground below. Reflecting the Lexus tenet of seamless hospitality, the lamp automatically illuminates as the user approaches the NX whilst, simultaneously, the new Remote Touch Interface illuminates within the interior.

Door mirrors

Attaching directly to the door to give an expanded field of vision, newly designed door mirrors optimise rear visibility and reduce wind noise. Metal trim accentuates a stylish design that both reduces sunlight reflection and eliminates dazzle. Airflow between the mirror and the car -a source of wind noise- has been minimised, and the use of a small fixed quarterlight window improves side visibility in front of the mirror.

Exclusive wheels

Lexus has created a new range of cast alloy wheels for the NX. They feature a variety of glossy surface finishes, each designed for light weight.

There is a choice of one 17-inch 10-spoke and two 18-inch cast alloy wheel designs. One of the latter features a three-dimensional centre and a U-shaped graphic element on each of its five axes. The second achieves strong visual depth through a dynamic three-dimensional section combined with highly luminous machined Y-shaped spokes.

The Lexus NX F SPORT offers customers two bespoke wheels. The 225/60R18 wheel makes use of new black paint combined with a highly luminous machine finish to express an aggressive, sporting image. A slightly lower profile 235/55R18 wheel has an exclusive dark premium metallic highly textured finish.

Interior

The interior design of the Lexus NX reflects the bold character of its exterior. Chief Interior Designer Tetsuo Miki designed it to bring a sense of excitement to the cabin atmosphere that directly evokes ‘Premium Urban Sports Gear’. The core idea was to combine the structural beauty of a high-performance machine with materials and textures that provide luxury and functionality.

The new NX’s ergonomically designed, driver-focused cockpit enables customers to remain alert and comfortable over long periods of time. Lexus’ Human Machine Interface (HMI) technology offers fast, intuitive operation of all switches and controls to minimise driver distraction.

The prominent, silver centre console frame is strongly embedded in the instrument panel to symbolise the NX’s rugged, SUV character. It is flanked by soft leather knee pads on both sides which create a strong contrast to the metallic frame whilst firmly supporting the driver and passenger. Wood inserts further underline the natural luxury of the interior.

Maximizing space in a mid-size SUV

The NX provides ample room for all occupants, with segment-best space advantages in critical areas. Its front to rear seat couple distance is a class-leading 962mm and the high-roof design has resulted in exceptional head clearance. Its rear knee room provides even more space than that of some bigger SUVs.

Luggage room is also spacious and practical. Maximum loadspace width is 1,347mm, enough to store golf bags sideway. Additional storage space is available under the luggage board. This gives the NX 200t a total luggage capacity of 580* litres.

As befitting a practical SUV, the NX cabin is equipped with a wide variety of storage bins. These include glove and console boxes, a console mid-tray, utility box, sunglasses storage bin, cup holders and front and rear door pockets. The centre cup holders are big enough for two half litre bottles and the door pocket bottle holders can each hold a half litre plastic bottle.

Rear Power Seat

The NX offers customers the option of Lexus-first and segment-first 40:60 rear power-folding seats. Operated via controls mounted on the instrument panel, each side of the rear seat and the luggage compartment, the seats fold fully flat in only 10 seconds.

Meters and switches – human interaction

The analogue clock, speedometer and tachometer have spin-milling-processed faces to create a sense of unity and a subtle impression of genuine metal.

A 4.2-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) LCD providing a full-colour Multi Information Display (MID) is positioned at the centre of the instrument cluster. Ambient illumination in the MID is linked to the Drive Mode Select switch and changes colour for each mode. Using the Multimedia Linkage Function, the MID can also display phone and audio information.

For the first time on a Lexus, the NX introduces touch switches in the head lining for the front dome lamp and map lamp switches. A microcomputer detects the proximity of the user’s finger to turn the lamps on and off.

Welcoming illumination is an important part of Lexus’ appeal to customers. The Remote Touch Interface lights up along with the door handles when the owner approaches the NX with the key. It remains illuminated when the owner enters the car.

Foot well lighting, particularly important as a safety assurance and to provide a feeling of luxury, centres on the occupant’s seating position. For maximum night-time visibility the rear dome lamp is fitted with an LED lamp.

Materials

The interior of the new NX was developed with the high level of attention-to-detail which characterises every Lexus. For example, the interior surface of the bottle holder in the middle console is finished in a high friction material that allows the driver to open the bottle with just one hand.

Shimamoku wood – an inspiration

The Lexus NX features a wood polishing process to create a unique polished steel finish, inspired by Yamaha’s top grade concert piano. Called Shimamoku, the surface treatment prevents reflections from the stage lights which might distract the performer or the conductor.

Lexus introduced Shimamoku in the GS interior ornamentation and on the LS steering wheel in 2012, but, for the first time in the new NX, it has now devised an eight-step process resulting in a distinctive, soft gloss, non-reflective finish.

ON BOARD TECHNOLOGY

• Wireless Charging Tray for cable free phone charging

• 360° Panoramic View Monitor for greater safety on and off-road

• 6.2’’ Head-Up Display for easy information access

• Remote Touch Interface (RTI) with Touch Pad, Multi-Information Display (MID), etc.

• Top of the range Mark Levinson Surround Sound System with first automotive industry use of music quality-improving Clari-Fi

Several innovative on board technologies make their first appearance in the NX, making the ownership experience even more enjoyable.

Wireless Charging Tray

A new wireless charging tray is located in the centre console box. It allows smart phones, or other items compatible with international wireless charging standards (qi protocol), to be recharged by being simply placed on the tray, with no need for a cable.

Panoramic View Monitor

The new NX is equipped with a Lexus-first, 360-degree Panoramic View Monitor developed to offer drivers a high degree of reassurance when driving in confined spaces, both on and off road, at speeds up to 20km/h.

A purpose-built ECU mounted behind the C-pillar constantly monitors input from four interconnected cameras placed in the left- and right-front mirrors, the front grille and rear license plate garnish.

The ECU processes the images and plays them back on the audio and navigation display monitor in a choice of seven combinations. It is even possible to view the NX as if looking down at it from above, and accurately check its surroundings before driving off.

The new Panoramic View Monitor allows the driver to see obstacles which, using conventional rear- or front-view cameras, would be in blind spots. The system features full-screen imaging, without the ‘letterboxing’ created by an analogue camera format.

The Panoramic View Monitor is used in conjunction with Lexus Park Assist, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), which detects crossing obstacles in the driver’s blind spot when reversing from a parking spot.

Head-Up Display

The Head-Up Display projects a range of information onto the bottom sector of the windscreen, including vehicle speed, engine rpm, navigation guidance and audio settings.

Remote Touch Interface

A new Remote Touch Interface with Touch Pad is an integral part of the operation zone in the centre console. The RTI’s ergonomic structure helps the hand normally locate the on-screen icons. A palm rest is provided for greater ease of operation. The RTI provides fast, intuitive, on-the-move access to ancillary controls with minimum driver distraction. It can also easily be accessed by the front-seat passenger.

Audio systems

The highly-rigid bodyshell of the Lexus NX provides an ideal platform for two high quality audio systems; an 8- or 10-speaker Pioneer Premium Sound system, and a 14-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround System.

Pre-programmed sound equalizing in the NX differs to that of other Lexus models due to the difference in interior space and cabin layout. Both audio systems have been purpose-built for the new NX, addressing the increasing popularity of the use of compressed sound as a music source, and enhancing its quality.

The Pioneer system uses a newly developed Digital Signal Processor (DSP) to restore high notes lost through compression. A full digital Class D amplifier powers 16cm speakers in the front doors combined with 6.5cm tweeters mounted in the instrument panel.

The Mark Levinson Premium Surround System uses patented high efficiency technology which more than doubles sound output with the same expenditure of energy. The system employs a 12-channel Class D amplifier, and new Unity technology that places 9cm speakers at each end of the instrument panel. The total system develops 125 watts per channel and 835 watts overall with distortion limited to below 0.1 per cent.

Making its very first appearance in the automotive market, Clari-Fi is available with the Mark Levinson Premium Surround System. It analyses and improves the audio quality of all types of compressed, digitalized music sources.

NEW 2.0l TURBO PETROL ENGINE

• Lexus’ first turbocharged petrol engine

• World’s first petrol engine combining twin-scroll turbocharging with an integrated, four-into-two exhaust manifold cylinder head for great responsiveness with no turbo-lag and high level of fuel efficiency

• D-4ST direct injection and Dual VVT-iW for outstanding responsiveness with no turbo lag and enhanced low speed torque

• Lightweight, smoothness and quietness

Lexus’ first turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine was developed in-house to marry exciting performance with optimum fuel efficiency.

The innovative 2.0-litre, in-line 4-cylinder engine is the first in the world to combine a water cooled cylinder head with an integral, four-into-two exhaust manifold and a twin scroll turbocharger.

Meeting EURO 6 emissions requirements, the new engine generates maximum power of 175 kW/238 DIN hp at 4800-5600 rpm and 350Nm of torque from 1650-4000 rpm, giving the NX 200t a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 7.1 seconds and a maximum speed of 200 km/h The turbo returns an average fuel consumption of 7.7 l/100 km generates CO₂ emissions of 178 g/km.

Cylinder Head with Integral 4-into-2 Exhaust Manifold and Twin-Scroll Turbo

This unique, world-first combination of engine technologies has been designed to provide a high level of responsiveness with minimal turbo lag and enhanced low speed torque, and yet return excellent fuel economy.

The four-into-two exhaust manifold system pairs cylinders according to their expansion or compression stroke. Acting in conjunction with the highly-efficient, twin-scroll turbocharger, this innovative manifold structure prevents interference between the exhaust gasses from each cylinder, generating high torque across the widest possible rev range.

The engine further employs an air to liquid intercooler mounted directly to the engine to significantly reduce the intake volume downstream of the turbocharger, minimising turbo lag for a highly responsive performance.

The twin-scroll turbocharger itself features variable wastegate valve control. This minimises pumping losses by reducing back pressure during low engine loads when the turbo is not required, not only realising excellent fuel economy, but also contributing to the new engine meeting EURO 6 emissions requirements.

In addition, the integration of the exhaust manifold within the cylinder head enhances exhaust gas cooling without sacrificing catalyst warm-up performance. This not only helps to suppress catalyst deterioration, but also expands driving range at the optimum, stoichiometric air-fuel ratio.

D-4ST Fuel Injection System

The D-4ST (Direct injection 4 stroke gasoline engine Superior version with Turbo) fuel injection system combines direct fuel injection and turbocharging technology to create a high level of compatibility between the ‘high tumble ratio’ achieved by optimising the shape of the cylinder head intake ports and the piston tops, and turbo ‘boost control’.

D-4ST combines a high pressure fuel system for injection directly into the cylinders with a low pressure system for injection into the ports. Injection is split between the direct and port injectors according to the engine load, optimising fuel combustion in all driving situations to enhance both low speed torque and fuel economy.

Innovative Dual VVT-iW Technology

Optimising torque throughout the engine rev range and allowing the engine to start in the Otto cycle and yet run in the more fuel efficient Atkinson cycle, the new Lexus turbo features innovative dual variable valve timing technology which adopts VVT-i to the exhaust valves and VVT-iW to the intake valves.

The late intake valve closing of the Atkinson cycle reduces pumping losses and boosts fuel economy. VVT-iW incorporates a mid-position lock which not only enables the Atkinson cycle to be maintained without sacrificing starting performance in cold weather, but also delivers wide open throttle performance.

Light Weight and Further Advanced Features

The new 2.0 litre turbo engine is remarkably light and compact. Cast with low nickel content heat resistant steel, and featuring a resin cylinder head cover, intake manifold and intake pipes, it weighs just 160 kg. The unit was bench-tested for more than 10,000 hours before extensive on-road testing began, during which it then covering more than one million kilometres.

Several measures have been adopted to reduce friction losses within various parts of the engine, enhancing fuel economy. The adoption of an offset crankshaft lowers the piston thrust load to reduce friction losses. Cylinder bore machining has been improved and a piston surface treatment applied to the piston skirts, reducing sliding resistance. Low tension piston rings have been used, and the weight of reciprocating parts reduced.

A lightweight roller rocker valvetrain and a low friction timing chain have been adopted, and the sliding parts of the chain fabricated in a low friction material. Low friction materials have also been used for the crankshaft oil seals, and the flow of lubricating oil optimised, with oil pump flow reduced through the adoption of a variable discharge mechanism.

Careful heat management within the engine further improves fuel efficiency. To that end, a cylinder block rapid warm-up system suppresses the flow of coolant into the block when the engine is cold, and a piston cooling oil jet control system cuts the supply of oil to the pistons to improve warm-up speeds.

Smoothness, Quietness and a Better Turbo Sound

With the rigidity of the main structural components already optimised to suppress vibration, the new engine is further equipped with a balance shaft featuring resin gears for even greater smoothness.

A newly developed lubricating calcium free oil removes the chance of engine knock at low engine revolutions, and the piston cooling oil jet system further improves anti-knock performance.

The water-cooled intercooler provides strong advantages in starting off acceleration and a 0.3-second reduction in 0–100km/h acceleration time over an air-to-air type alternative. The acceleration curve prioritises torque delivery at low speeds.

Turbo engines tend to be noisy when the throttle is closed (referred to as the ‘turbo sigh’). An electric air bypass valve and resonator have been adopted to greatly reduce characteristic turbocharger noise. As a turbocharged engine requires smooth intake flow for performance, Lexus engineers focused on creating special duct shapes which deliver power without noise.

New six-speed transmission

A new sequential automatic six-speed transmission cooperates with the new engine to achieve a balance of boost pressure for performance and fuel economy. Torque-demand control logic calculates required engine torque, maximising it to deliver quick, responsive acceleration.

DRIVING DYNAMICS

• High rigidity body and suspension characteristics for dynamic, agile and responsive handling and a high level of ride comfort

• Drive Mode Select to adjust vehicle behaviour to road conditions and driving style

• Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) combines ride comfort with increased stability when cornering

The new NX 200t has been designed to offer customers an exciting, dynamic and agile driving experience while also ensuring a high level of ride comfort.

NX chief engineer, Takeaki Kato, said his team benchmarked innovations in Lexus’ IS to provide agility and stability. Mechanical assistance such as differential pre-load offer more precise cornering. And the Adaptive Variable Suspension system has been enhanced, with the number of control force steps increased from 9 to 30.

High rigidity body

Extensive use of hot-stamped high tensile strength sheet steel, combined with aluminium, has resulted in a light weight, highly rigid bodyshell.

Advanced production techniques pioneered during the development of the Lexus IS (particularly body adhesives, laser screw welding and additional spot welds) have been used to strengthen panel joints. Laser screw welding around the door openings is supplemented by new body adhesive techniques in the door openings, rear wheel housing and rear floor. Reinforcement around suspension members creates a strong platform and the number three cross-member is reinforced to support the drivetrain.

A high rigidity urethane sealant has been used for the windshield glass, effectively making the glass a load-bearing member and increasing resistance to body flex.

Heavy duty damping force has been applied to the NX’s rear door struts to ensure consistently snug alignment.

Suspension

Of all the attributes of the Lexus NX 200t, perhaps the most outstanding is the unique combination of superior ride and highly responsive handling.

The NX 200t uses a MacPherson strut front suspension system with high-rigidity upper supports and low-friction strut bearings. The suspension hardware includes barrel-shaped coil springs, large diameter high-rigidity wheel bearings, high damping bushings for the strut and number two lower arm mounting, and a high rigidity stabilizer bar.

At the rear, a newly devised trailing arm double wishbone rear suspension system optimises agility, stability and ride comfort. Separating the coil springs and damper units also minimises suspension component intrusion into the luggage compartment and allows for the lowest possible load space floor.

Special features include high rigidity lower arm mountings, low friction dampers and an increased consistency in spring movement due to the shape of the trailing arm bushings.

Force control was a priority; minimizing the sound of shake and shudder caused by lateral loads from the road surface which changes the tread width of a tyre as the wheel reacts to an undulation.

The NX 200t has reinforced front lower suspension arm mountings so the tread width does not change with the wheel stroke. This also provides optimum steering feel and input control.

Chassis rigidity is the key to optimum suspension delivery and, hence, agility. Due to the particularly high rigidity of the new NX 200t’s bodyshell, it has been possible to increase the spring rate of the front upper support bushings over that which would have been possible with a softer platform, further optimising the suspension for greater agility.

Even the rigidity of the steering column installation is beyond normal parameters. Friction between the moving parts of the dampers has been minimized to overcome the feeling of road shock during cornering.

The bound and rebound curves of the dampers have been optimized, especially at low piston velocities, to suppress body pitch and roll. Front and rear performance dampers are gas-pressurized and precisely machined to dampen miniscule vibrations in the body.

Drive Mode Select

Lexus Drive Mode Select provides integrated control of multiple systems to enhance driving pleasure and performance.

Via a centre console dial, Drive Mode Select offers drivers the choice of NORMAL, ECO, SPORT and SPORT+ driving modes. Each mode controls throttle action depending on whether economy or performance is required.

Drive Mode Select simultaneously modifies the power steering assistance curve and enables a choice of two suspension damping force settings.

Adaptive Variable Suspension

The NX 200t features new generation linear-solenoid type Adaptive variable Suspension (AVS). Operating in conjunction with Drive Mode Select, it automatically adjusts the suspension damping under all driving conditions to combine the greatest possible straight line ride comfort and high speed stability with suppression of body roll and optimum cornering agility.

The breakthrough use of linear solenoid actuators instead of more conventional AVS step motors more than trebles the number of control force levels, from 9 to 30. As a result suspension response time has decreased fourfold, from 80 to 20 milliseconds.

The actuator is more compact, so it can be relocated from the top of the damper unit to its lower side, creating a lower bonnet line and resulting in more cargo space.

AVS operation is governed by nine control inputs:

• Vehicle Speed Sensing Control achieves ride comfort at low speeds and handling stability at higher speeds

• Roll Attitude Control maintains the vehicle’s optimum attitude during cornering

• Anti-Dive Control moderates the tendency to pitch forward during braking

• Anti-Squat Control acts during acceleration to keep the vehicle level

• Rebound Control works best on rough surfaces to smooth out bumps

• Ruggedness Sensing Control decreases damping force when vibration from irregular road surfaces is sensed

• Unsprung Mass Variation Damping Control increases damping forces when components such as wheels start to resonate on uneven surfaces

• VSC Cooperative Control works with the vehicle stability control systems to provide the best handling options when the vehicle starts to skid, for example, on a damp surface

• Pre-Crash Safety System Cooperative Control provides extra damping force for accident avoidance under heavy braking.

LEXUS NX F SPORT

• Unique exterior design elements for even more aggressive and agile look

• Exclusive F SPORT colour and interior features

• Front performance dampers for even greater handling stability

The F SPORT stands out from the rest of the NX model range through unique styling modifications, exclusive colour schemes and dynamic upgrades.

F SPORT grille and exterior

The mesh grille of Lexus performance models combines with a metallic coated lower bumper moulding to set the NX F SPORT apart. The large spindle aperture is graded from bottom to top to express the outline of the distinctive F SPORT motif. The unique frontal appearance of the NX F SPORT is further accentuated by the use of a sporting black coating on the door mirrors and the signature F SPORT emblem on the front quarter panel beneath the A-pillar.

A Lexus-first sports wheel offers the choice of two wheel colours and tyre sizes. A 225/60/18 10-spoke alloy combines black paint on the lateral edges with a luminous machine-brushed finish. A second 10-spoke wheel and tyre combination is a lower profile 235/55/18 with an exclusive dark metallic finish.

F SPORT-exclusive colour and interior

On board, the meter, steering wheel, gear shift, sport seats, pedals, gear shift, leather pad for passenger instrument panel and Dark Rose interior colour are all exclusive to F SPORT models.

Injection-moulded quilted seats hug the occupant’s body to give improved support and lateral holding performance. Perforated non-slip aluminium pedals and a driver’s foot brace provide practical assistance to agile diving. And the steering wheel leather is also perforated to provide even greater feel during performance driving.

The wheel carries the F SPORT emblem in its lower quadrant. The brushed metallic gear shift lever and the scuff plate ornamentation beneath the door are also exclusive to F SPORT models.

Performance dampers

The NX F SPORT is exclusively equipped with front and rear suspension performance dampers, enhancing rigidity and decreasing vibration to optimise handling stability.

G-sensor and boost meter

The NX F SPORT features a Lexus-first ‘G-Monitor’ in its full-colour Multi Information Display (MID).

On the G-Monitor screen, a G-ball moves in accordance with the vehicle’s lateral and longitudinal forces. The MID displays the peak force in each direction. Additional display bars also indicate the steering angle, throttle opening angle and hydraulic brake pressure.

In turbocharged NX F SPORT models, the MID provides a Lexus-first turbo-boost meter with the colour band changing in the high boost pressure range. The analogue displays show oil temperature and pressure.

SAFETY

• Advanced Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS)

• All-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control

• Lane Keep Assist (LKA) & Blind Spot Monitor (BSM ) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)

• 6.2’’ Head-Up Display (HUD)

• Automatic High Beam

• High Rigidity Body

• 8 SRS Airbags

• Enhanced Pedestrian Protection

Designed and engineered to meet the highest safety standards, the new Lexus NX is equipped with a comprehensive array of active, passive and driver assistance systems.

The active safety package includes All Speed Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), newly adopted cornering lamps and Head-Up Display (HUD).

The NX is equipped with daytime running lamps (DRL), a rear view camera and front and rear fog lamps as well as numerous electronic safety features. These include Emergency Brake Signal, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) plus traction control, ABS with brake assist and electronic brake force distribution, and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC).

All-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control

An improved All-Speed Following Function built into the Adaptive Cruise Control uses a Millimetre Wave Radar sensor and steering sensors to recognize the vehicle travelling ahead and maintain a safe distance from it, even if it comes to a complete stop.

Lane Keep Assist

Lane Keep Assist (LKA) with steering control warns the driver with a buzzer if the system judges the vehicle is about to cross the lane markings without using the turn signals, and assists steering to avoid lane departure.

Automatic High Beam

Automatic High Beam (AHB) uses the same windscreen-mounted camera to detect both on-coming and leading traffic, automatically switching the headlamps to high beam when the road ahead is clear. The system will switch to low beam to prevent dazzling other road users and restore high beam when there are no vehicles ahead.

Advanced Pre-Crash Safety system

The multi-layer-strategy PCS uses a millimetre-wavelength radar sensor in the radiator grille to detect vehicles and other obstacles. The radar sensor provides distance measurement for the all-speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).

PCS detects a possible collision between the vehicle and an obstacle, such as a vehicle ahead. If the system assumes a collision is imminent, it activates Pre-Crash Brake to either avoid the collision or reduce collision impact by significant deceleration performance.

Airbags

The new Lexus NX is equipped with eight SRS airbags, including a dual stage driver’s airbag, dual-stage and dual-chamber front passenger airbag, driver knee air bag, front passenger cushion airbag, front-seat side airbags and full length side curtain-shield airbags.

Pedestrian Protection

Pedestrian protection includes an energy-absorbing structure for the hood and the fender mounting bracket as well as an impact-absorbing structure for the cowl. Energy absorbing material has been adopted in front of the bumper and under the radiator support to protect pedestrians’ legs.

• Outstanding result for Safety Assist and Pedestrian Protection

The Lexus NX 300h has been awarded the prestigious Euro NCAP five-star rating. The scores for all the respective tested areas were well above the minimum required to achieve five stars, and rank the new Lexus amongst the very safest vehicles in its segment.

The programme is composed of four areas - Adult Occupant, Child Occupant, Pedestrian Protection and, since 2009, Safety Assist. The latter includes injury avoidance and mitigating functions, such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, Electronic Stability Control and a speed limiter.

The Lexus NX 300h scored 82% for Adult Occupant, 82% for Child Occupant, 69% for Pedestrian Protection and 71% for Safety Assist.

Commenting on the Adult Occupant category, Euro NCAP highlighted the maximum points scored by the NX 300h in the side barrier impact test, the good protection offered of all critical body areas.

Tests on the front seats and head restraints, and the geometric assessment of the rear restraints, indicated good protection against whiplash injuries in the event of rear-end collision.

In the Child Occupant tests, the NX 300h scored well for its protection of both 18 month and three year old children, and in the Pedestrian Protection category, the bumper provided 'good or adequate' protection to pedestrian's legs.

In the Safety Assist area the NX demonstrated 'good performance' mainly thanks to the Pre-Crash Safety System, the Electronic Stability Control with seatbelt reminder for front and rear occupants, and speed assistant system.

Even though not assessed by Euro NCAP, Lexus NX 300h is further equipped with optional Lane Keep Assist, Adaptive High Beam, Blind Spot Monitor and 360° Panoramic View Monitor, dedicated to protecting its occupants and pedestrians.

Results by Euro NCAP : http://ow.ly/Fh5Kb

• Four 180° external cameras allow for panoramic pictures to be captured and displayed on a smart phone

• Custom built steering wheel and hand embroidered Nappa leather interior carries the willpower logo

• Huge 22-inch alloys, given a highly luminous black machine finish

Musician, innovator and global entrepreneur will.i.am tonight unveiled his personally designed new Lexus NX at an exclusive launch party in Paris. The highly-anticipated car was revealed ahead of an exclusive DJ set by the Grammy-Award winner, to attending guests from across Europe.

Bearing his name, the special edition NX 200t F SPORT pairs the flair and creativity of will.i.am's innovative personality with the eye-catching striking angles of the Lexus NX. With cutting-edge on-board technology, a sharply-styled exterior and an aggressive and sporty design, the NX is aimed at younger, urban and more design oriented customers.

Speaking about the special edition SUV, will.i.am said: "When I found out Lexus wanted me to be involved in the Striking Angles campaign, my first thought was, can I design a car with you? I'm honored to be launching my bespoke Lexus NX F SPORT in Paris —this car is super fresh and incorporates my personal style. My point of view is the best kind of design will encourage other people to interpret that design."

Alain Uyttenhoven, Head of Lexus Europe said: "Working with will.i.am to produce a bespoke take on the NX has been a fantastic experience. We were immediately struck by his passion to take the aggressive and bold design of the NX F SPORT to a whole new level. The striking design of the NX has already captured the imagination of customers worldwide and will.i.am's bespoke take extends the car's captivating personality and character in a new direction that embodies his unrivalled creativity and vision."

CUTTING EDGE TECHNOLOGY

One of the most innovative features of will.i.am's bespoke NX is the ability to capture panoramic photographs and video footage whilst driving. Built into the customised body kit are four 180° interconnected camera lenses. The media that is captured can then be displayed on the smartphone screen of the driver or passenger, instantly via Bluetooth.

To support the growing trend for consumers to own more than one mobile device, the bespoke car also features the Lexus NX patented Wireless Charging Tray. Located in the centre console box, the innovative technology allows smart phones and other compatible devices to be recharged by being placed on the tray, with no need for a cable.

As can only be expected for a multi-platinum selling artist, the audio system inside the sports SUV is premium. It features a Lexus NX 10-speaker Pioneer Surround Sound System, consisting of 16cm speakers in the front and rear doors and a set of 6.5cm speakers mounted in the instrument panel.

Under the bonnet sits Lexus' all-new 2.0l VVT-iW turbo petrol engine and six-speed automatic transmission, boasting 238 DIN hp / 175 KW and a hefty 350 Nm of torque at 1650-4000rpm. This will take the car from 0-100km/h in a brisk 7.1sec and 80-120km/h in 6.0sec.

EXTERIOR

Through a unique blend of innovation and design, will.i.am has added his own touch to the striking exterior of the NX, producing a lower, wider and bolder model. The bodywork incorporates an arresting blend of brushed aluminum, carbon vinyl and will.iam's signature monochrome, matte pearl white paintwork with a black tinted panoramic glass roof. Powerfully flared front and rear fenders are fused to a diamond-shaped body with lines generated from the spindle grille.

As well as being lowered the bespoke car boasts a set of massive 22-inch alloy wheels. These alloys have been painted with a luminous black machine finish in contrast to the highly visible bright orange break calipers.

INTERIOR

Inside, the stylised bespoke car features a distinctive combination of high performance brushed aluminum and contrasting soft materials to create a bold, yet luxurious, interior design. The signature monochrome colour scheme continues inside creating a clean and cohesive overall look.

Embroidered with will.i.am's globally renowned #willpower logo, the modified leather seats provide the perfect viewpoint to appreciate the Lexus NX innovative central console and custom-built steering wheel. The musician has even specified luxurious Nappa leather and brushed aluminum floor mats.

The Lexus NX was manufactured at the Lexus Miyata Plant, Kyushu, Japan.

LEXUS ENTERS THE PREMIUM MID-SIZE SUV SEGMENT

‘The NX was developed as a premium SUV delivering high performance, packaged with an alluring exterior and interior design which creates a sense of desire. On its practical side, the NX was designed to complement daily life while also being capable of supporting an active lifestyle on the weekend.’ Takeaki Kato, NX Chief Engineer

The all-new Lexus NX marks the company’s first entry into the mid-size premium SUV segment. It has been conceived under the development concept of “Premium Urban Sports Gear”, much like high quality sports watches, bikes and fashion, as an edgy and emotional design to appeal to new customers who lead urban and active lifestyles.

The highly competitive mid-size sports utility vehicle market is one of the fastest growing in the auto industry. Globally, demand for mid-size SUVs has grown almost seven-fold in the last seven years and it is expected to top one million per year in 2015.

Lexus pioneered the premium SUV segment with the launch of the RX in 1998. With the subsequent arrival of both the GX and LX, the company has gone on to established an enviable reputation for setting new benchmarks in quality, design flair and advanced technology in the premium SUV and 4x4 markets.

UNIQUE DESIGN, OPTIMAL PACKAGE

Its styling clearly influenced by the LF-NX concept vehicles revealed at the 2013 Frankfurt and Tokyo Motor Shows, the NX represents the latest and most progressive expression yet of the Lexus design language.

An exterior combining highly individual front grille styling with a low, cab-forward silhouette creates an aggressive, eye-catching SUV with a particularly powerful road presence designed to attract a new generation of younger, style-conscious customers to the Lexus brand.

The NX also delivers practical solutions to space and luggage requirements.

CUSTOMER-FOCUSED INNOVATION

The new heights in innovation scaled by Lexus in the SUV market are widely represented on board the new NX with a comprehensive array of advanced, user-friendly technologies.

These include a Wireless Charging Tray for portable devices such as mobile phones, the first application of a new Lexus Remote Touch Interface with a Touch Pad, a 360 degree Panoramic View Monitor, an enhanced Multi-Information Display which includes turbo-boost meter and Lexus-first G sensor, and a 6.2’’ Head-Up Display.

ENJOYABLE DRIVING DYNAMICS, EFFICIENT POWERTRAINS

Lexus NX makes extensive use of electronic advancements and chassis dynamics to produce a ride and handling package that is dynamic and enjoyable to drive.

In a market previously dominated by diesel engines, nowhere are the higher levels of refinement and progressive luxury which Lexus has introduced to SUV customers more evident that in the adoption of its sophisticated hybrid powertrain technology, first with the ground-breaking RX 400h in 2005 and RX450h in 2009, and now with the all-new NX 300h.

The NX 300h’s highly efficient hybrid powertrain emits 116g CO₂/km, while delivering a total power output of 197hp.

Each unit may be mated to either front- or all-wheel drive powertrain formats. The NX 300h has been designed to offer an engaging driving experience and outstanding ride comfort in combination with a high level of fuel economy.

The F SPORT version provides more aggressive and bolder design with F SPORT- exclusive styling and trim throughout. Driving dynamics are also enhanced through the adoption of performance dampers.

COMPREHENSIVE SAFETY PACKAGE

Lexus has also redefined standards of safety and driver assistance in the SUV and 4x4 market with the introduction of advanced active, passive and pre-emptive technology.

The new NX benefits from the company’s most sophisticated safety systems, including the advanced Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), All-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Automatic High Beam (AHB) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).

9 AMAZING FACTS ABOUT THE NEW NX

1. Door handle design: no visible key hole – a world-first for a pull handle

2. Rear Power Seat: segment-first rear 40:60 power-folding operatedvia controls accessible from the instrument panel, luggage compartmentand each side of the rear seat.

3. Shimamoku wood: wood polishing process to create a unique polishedsteel finish inspired by Yamaha’s top grade concert piano. The surfacetreatment prevents reflections from the stage lights which might distractthe performer. Lexus introduced Shimamoku in the GS interior orna-mentation and the LS steering wheel.

4. Wireless Charging Tray: located in the centre console it allows smartphones to be recharged by being simply placed on the charging tray,with no need for a cable.

5. 360-degree Panoramic View Monitor: allows to view the NX as iflooking down at it from above and accurately check the surroundingsbefore driving off.

6. Remote Touch Interface with Touch Pad: placed in the centre consoleit allows easy access to ancillary controls with minimum driver distraction.

7. Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System with Clari-Fi -a world-first in automotive sector. The system analyses and improvesthe audio quality of all types of compressed, digitalized music sources.

8. New generation linear-solenoid type Adaptive Variable Suspension:refined adjustment of suspension damping now with an increasednumber of adjustment levels from 9 to 30.

9. Advanced Pre-Crash Safety system combined with All-Speed AdaptiveCruise Control (ACC) detects a possible collision between the NXand an obstacle in front. If the system assumes a collision is imminent,it activates Pre-Crash Brake to either avoid the collision or mitigate itsimpact by significant deceleration performance.

DESIGN AND PACKAGING

• Muscular and edgy exterior design demonstrating a strong SUV character
• Bold yet luxurious interior design combining prominent chrome elements with high quality leather and wood
• Driver-focused cockpit with ergonomically structured operation and display zones
• Ample interior space combining SUV functionality with Lexus luxury and comfort

The design of the new Lexus NX was substantially influenced by the 2013 LF-NX concept vehicles that were shown, first as hybrid at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and then at the Tokyo Motor Show powered by an all-new turbo drivetrain.

Exterior

Chief Exterior Designer Nobuyuki Tomatsu designed the NX to provide a feeling of agility not usually associated with an SUV, while also being suitable for urban use. At a glance, its aggressive styling hints at both functionality and performance.

The NX combines a low roofline with an aggressive, cab-forward silhouette. Powerfully flared front and rear fenders are fused to a diamond-shaped body with lines generated from the spindle grille. The NX has the most individual and aggressive front face in the Lexus line-up, its prominent spindle grille accentuated by new LED headlamps and LED day time running lights (DRL).

The sleek side profile is accentuated by a roofline which falls towards the back of the vehicle. The bold flared wheel arches housing 17 or 18-inch wheels provide a crouching, muscular stance.

The world’s first door handle mechanism to feature a hidden key barrel and integrated lighting combines with an aerodynamic door mirror design enhance the premium appearance of the NX’s smooth, flowing lines.

Echoing the spindle grille design of the front, the rear of the NX features L-shaped combination lamps with seamless LED lighting.

Aerodynamics

The NX achieves an ideal balance of aerodynamics and design. Its compact shape proved particularly challenging during the aerodynamic development of the car. The adoption of a rear spoiler proved essential in creating a smooth airflow from the back of the vehicle, and extensive wind tunnel testing led to the trailing edge of the fin being given a slightly upturned lip. This detail not only created a striking design accent but also provided the best Cd value -just 0.32.

The front and rear spats, rear floor cover and HV engine undercover are newly developed for the NX. The shape and composition of the engine undercover offer both heat resistance and enhanced aerodynamics.

Lights and lamps

Lexus-first low energy consumption LED lights play a major role in defining NX’s design objectives. LEDs allow for faster illumination while saving energy. The NX incorporates a total of 90 LEDs.

Each headlamp cluster features 6 new, high-brightness LEDs, including 3 L-shape low beam lamps. 23 LEDs are used for the daytime running lamps and another 16 for turning signals on each side. Thick inner lenses give the units an eye-catching, crystal-like shine.

The NX also features adaptive cornering lamps with LEDs. When the turn indicators are activated two LED lamps operate automatically to better illuminate the bend ahead.

A design breakthrough in rear illumination and exacting production accuracy gives the NX a unique rear lamp signature; an uninterrupted flow of light crossing seamlessly from the tailgate to the body. The thick wall moulding technology adopted for the outer lens combines with inner refraction detailing to give the impression of a cut crystal glass lamp.

Door handle design

The newly designed door handle has no visible key hole, a world-first for a pull handle of this type. A structure has been devised that allows the key to be inserted behind the handle if necessary.

A single LED lamp both provides a welcoming silhouette along the top of the handle and a puddle light on the ground below. Reflecting the Lexus tenet of seamless hospitality, the lamp automatically illuminates as the user approaches the NX whilst, simultaneously, the new Remote Touch Interface illuminates within the interior.

Door mirrors

Attaching directly to the door to give an expanded field of vision, newly designed door mirrors optimise rear visibility and reduce wind noise. Metal trim accentuates a stylish design that both reduces sunlight reflection and eliminates dazzle. Airflow between the mirror and the car -a source of wind noise- has been minimised, and the use of a small fixed quarterlight window improves side visibility in front of the mirror.

New colours

The Lexus NX features a new exterior colour, Sonic White. Along with Sonic Silver (introduced on the Lexus GS) and Sonic Titanium (introduced on the IS), Sonic White is one of the Lexus-created Sonic colours designed to produce a metal-like shine. Sonic White is brighter than the brightest conventional white.

Sonic technology separates the paint film into two layers, one cosmetic and the other functional. After drying, the cosmetic layer is condensed to one third of its previous thickness, compacting its mica particles for strong reflectivity and shading. Mica particles are transparent yet luminous, which creates strong reflections and shadows.

Four further colours are neutral – Satin Silver, Mercury Grey, Black and Starlight Black. And three nuance colours -Morello Red, Sienna Brown and Meteor Blue Mica Metallic- are designed to appeal to younger, urban-chic customers.

The NX F SPORT is available in an exclusive Ultrasonic Blue; a highly vivid chromatic colour designed to highlight the model’s unique, sporting appeal.

Exclusive wheels

Lexus has created a new range of cast alloy wheels for the NX. They feature a variety of glossy surface finishes, each designed for light weight.

There is a choice of one 17-inch 10-spoke design wheels and two 18-inch cast alloy wheel designs. One of the latter features a three-dimensional centre and a U-shaped graphic element on each of its five axes. The second achieves strong visual depth through a dynamic three-dimensional section combined with highly luminous machined Y-shaped spokes.

The Lexus NX F SPORT offers customers two bespoke wheels. The 225/60R18 wheel makes use of new black paint combined with a highly luminous machine finish to express an aggressive, sporting image. A slightly lower profile 235/55R18 wheel has an exclusive dark premium metallic highly textured finish.

Interior　

Chief Interior Designer Tetsuo Miki designed the NX to bring a sense of excitement to the cabin atmosphere that directly evokes ‘Premium Urban Sports Gear’. The core idea was to combine the structural beauty of a high-performance machine with materials and textures that provide luxury and functionality.

The new NX’s ergonomically designed, driver-focused cockpit enables customers to remain alert and comfortable over long periods of time. Lexus’ Human Machine Interface (HMI) technology offers fast, intuitive operation of all switches and controls to minimise driver distraction.

The interior design of the Lexus NX reflects the bold character of its exterior. It combines the structural beauty and functionality of a performance machine with materials and textures that focus on luxury and comfort.

The prominent silver centre console frame is strongly embedded in the instrument panel to symbolise the NX’s rugged, SUV character. It is flanked by soft leather knee pads on both sides which create a strong contrast to the metallic frame whilst firmly supporting the driver and passenger. Wood inserts further underline the natural luxury of the interior.

Maximizing space in a mid-size SUV

The NX provides ample room to all occupants, with segment-best space advantages in critical areas. Its front to rear couple distance is a class-leading 962mm and the high-roof design has resulted in exceptional head clearance. Its rear knee room provides even more space than that of some bigger SUVs.

Luggage room is also spacious and practical. Maximum loadspace width is 1,347mm, enough to store golf bags sideway. Additional storage space is available under the luggage board. This results in a total luggage capacity of up to 555l in hybrid models and 580l in petrol variants .

As befitting a practical SUV, the NX cabin is equipped with a wide variety of storage bins. These include glove and console boxes, a console mid-tray, utility box, sunglasses storage bin, cup holders and front and rear door pockets. The centre cup holders are big enough for two half litre bottles and the door pocket bottle holders can each hold a half litre plastic bottle.

Rear Power Seat

The NX offers customers the option of Lexus-first and segment-first 40:60 rear power-folding seats. Operated via controls mounted on the instrument panel, each side of the rear seat and the luggage compartment, the seats fold fully flat in only 10 seconds.

Meters and switches – human interaction

The analogue clock, speedometer, tachometer and HV system indicator have spin-milling-processed faces to create a sense of unity and a subtle impression of genuine metal.

Hybrid models are equipped with a hybrid system indicator showing power output and regeneration in real time. The hybrid-specific dial changes to a tachometer when the vehicle is in SPORT mode.

The Eco Driving Indicator supports environment-friendly driving by displaying the range of Eco-friendly acceleration and the status of acceleration in real time.

A 4.2-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) LCD providing a full-colour Multi Information Display (MID) is positioned at the centre of the instrument cluster. Ambient illumination in the MID is linked to the Drive Mode Select switch and changes colour for each mode. Using the Multimedia Linkage Function, the MID can also display phone and audio information.

For the first time on a Lexus, the NX introduces touch switches in the head lining for the front dome lamp and map lamp switches. A microcomputer detects the proximity of the user’s finger to turn the lamps on and off.

Welcoming illumination is an important part of Lexus’ appeal to customers. RTI lights up along with the door handles when the owner approaches the NX with the key. It remains illuminated when the owner enters the car.

Foot well lighting, particularly important as a safety assurance and to provide a feeling of luxury, centres on the occupant’s seating position. For maximum night-time visibility the rear dome lamp is fitted with an LED lamp.

Materials

The interior of the new NX was developed with the high level of attention-to-detail which characterises every Lexus. For example, the interior surface of the bottle holder in the middle console is finished in a high friction material that allows the driver to open the bottle with just one hand.

Shimamoku wood – an inspiration

The Lexus NX features a wood polishing process to create a unique polished steel finish, inspired by Yamaha’s top grade concert piano. Called Shimamoku, the surface treatment prevents reflections from the stage lights which might distract the performer or the conductor.

Lexus introduced Shimamoku in the GS interior ornamentation and the LS steering wheel in 2012, but for the first time it has devised an eight-step process on the new NX, resulting in a distinctive, soft gloss, non-reflective finish.

ON BOARD TECHNOLOGY

• Wireless Charging Tray for cable free phone charging
• 360° Panoramic View Monitor for greater safety on and off road
• 6.2’’ Head-Up Display for easy information access
• Remote Touch Interface (RTI) with Touch Pad, Multi-Information Display (MID), etc.
• Top of the range Mark Levinson Surround Sound System with first automotive industry use
• of music quality-improving Clari-fi

Several innovative on board technologies make their first appearance in the NX, making the ownership experience even more enjoyable.

Wireless Charging Tray

A new wireless charging tray is located in the centre console box. It allows smart phones, or other items compatible with international wireless charging standards (qi protocol), to be recharged by being simply placed on the tray, with no need for a cable.

Panoramic View Monitor

The new NX is equipped with a Lexus-first, 360-degree Panoramic View Monitor is developed to offer drivers a high degree of reassurance when driving in confined spaces, both on and off road, at speeds up to 20km/h.

A purpose-built ECU mounted behind the C-pillar constantly monitors input from four interconnected cameras placed in the left- and right-front mirrors, the front grille and rear garnish.

The ECU processes the images and plays them back on the audio and navigation display monitor in a selection of seven sequences. It is even possible to view the NX as if looking down at it from above and accurately check its surroundings before driving off.

The new Panoramic View Monitor allows the driver to see obstacles which, using conventional rear- or front-view cameras, would be in blind spots. The system features full-screen imaging, without the ‘letterboxing’ created by an analogue camera format.

The Panoramic View Monitor is used in conjunction with Lexus Park Assist, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), which detects crossing obstacles in the driver’s blind spot when reversing from a parking spot.

Head-Up Display

The Head-Up Display projects a range of information onto the bottom sector of the windscreen, including vehicle speed, engine rpm, navigation guidance and audio settings.

Remote Touch Interface

A new Remote Touch Interface with Touch Pad is an integral part of the operation zone in the centre console. The RTI’s ergonomic structure helps the hand normally locate the on-screen icons. A palm rest is provided for greater ease of operation. The RTI provides fast, intuitive, on-the-move access to ancillary controls with minimum driver distraction. It can also easily be accessed by the front-seat passenger.

Audio systems

The highly-rigid bodyshell of the Lexus NX provides an ideal platform for two high quality audio systems; an 8- or 10-speaker Pioneer Premium Sound system, and a 14-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround System.

Pre-programmed sound equalizing in the NX differs to that of other Lexus models due to the difference in interior space and cabin layout. Both audio systems have been purpose-built for the new NX, addressing the increasing popularity of the use of compressed sound as a music source, and enhancing its quality.

The Pioneer system uses a newly developed Digital Signal Processor (DSP) to restore high notes lost through compression. A full digital Class D amplifier powers 16cm speakers in the front doors combined with 6.5cm tweeters mounted in the instrument panel.

The Mark Levinson Premium Surround System uses patented high efficiency technology which more than doubles sound output with the same expenditure of energy. The system employs a 12-channel Class D amplifier, and new Unity technology that places 9cm speakers at each end of the instrument panel. The total system develops 125 watts per channel and 835 watts overall with distortion limited to below 0.1 per cent.

Making its very first appearance in the automotive market, Clari-Fi is available with the Mark Levinson Premium Surround System. It analyses and improves the audio quality of all types of compressed, digitalized music sources.

DRIVING DYNAMICS

• High rigidity body and suspension characteristics for stability, agility responsive handling and a high level of ride comfort
• Drive Mode Select to adjust vehicle behaviour to road conditions and driving style
• Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) combines ride comfort with increased stability when cornering

The new NX has been designed to offer customers an engaging and agile driving experience while also ensuring a high level of ride comfort.

NX chief engineer, Takeaki Kato, said his team benchmarked innovations in Lexus’ IS to provide agility and stability. Mechanical assistance such as differential pre-load for better, more precise cornering, have been markedly.

Thanks to enhancements to the Adaptive Variable Suspension system, its control force levels have been increased from 9 to 30.

High rigidity body

Extensive use of hot-stamped high tensile strength sheet steel, combined with aluminium, has resulted in a light weight, highly rigid bodyshell.

Advanced production techniques pioneered during the development of the Lexus IS (particularly body adhesives, laser screw welding and additional spot welds) have been used to strengthen panel joints.

Laser screw welding around the door openings is supplemented by new body adhesive techniques in the door openings, rear wheel housing and rear floor. Reinforcement around suspension members creates a strong platform and the number three cross-member is reinforced to support the drivetrain.

A high rigidity urethane sealant has been used for the windshield glass, effectively making the glass a load-bearing member and increasing resistance to body flex.

Heavy duty damping force has been applied to the NX’s rear door struts to ensure consistently snug alignment.

Suspension

Of all the attributes of the Lexus NX, perhaps the most outstanding is the unique combination of superior ride and highly responsive handling.

The Lexus NX uses MacPherson strut front suspension with high-rigidity upper supports and low-friction strut bearings. The suspension hardware includes barrel-shaped coil springs, large diameter high-rigidity wheel bearings, high damping bushings for the strut and number two lower arm mounting, and a high rigidity stabilizer bar.

At the rear, a newly devised trailing arm double wishbone rear suspension system optimises agility, stability and ride comfort. Separating the coil springs and damper units also minimises suspension component intrusion into the luggage compartment and allows for the lowest possible load space floor.

Special features include high rigidity lower arm mountings, low friction dampers and an increased consistency in spring movement due to the shape of the trailing arm bushings.

Force control was a priority; minimizing the sound of shake and shudder caused by lateral loads from the road surface which changes the tread width of a tyre as the wheel reacts to an undulation.

The NX has reinforced front lower suspension arm mountings so the tread width does not change with the wheel stroke. This also provides optimum steering feel and input control.

Chassis rigidity is the key to optimum suspension delivery and, hence, agility. Due to the particularly high rigidity of the new NX’s bodyshell, it has been possible to increase the spring rate of the front upper support bushings over that which would have been possible with a softer platform, further optimising the suspension for greater agility.

Even the rigidity of the steering column installation is beyond normal parameters. Friction between the moving parts of the dampers has been minimized to overcome the feeling of road shock during cornering.

The bound and rebound curves of the dampers have been optimized, especially at low piston velocities, to suppress body pitch and roll. Front and rear performance dampers are gas-pressurized and precisely machined to dampen miniscule vibrations in the body.

Drive Mode Select

Lexus Drive Mode Select provides integrated control of multiple systems to enhance driving pleasure and performance.

Via a centre console dial, Drive Mode Select offers drivers the choice of NORMAL, ECO, SPORT and SPORT+ driving modes. Hybrid models have a button adjacent to the dial to enable an additional EV mode to be selected. Each mode controls throttle action depending on whether economy or performance is required.

Drive Mode Select simultaneously modifies the power steering assistance curve and enables a choice of two suspension damping force settings.

Adaptive Variable Suspension

The NX features new generation linear-solenoid type AVS. Operating in conjunction with Drive Mode Select, it automatically adjusts the suspension damping under all driving conditions to combine the greatest possible straight line ride comfort and high speed stability with suppression of body roll and optimum cornering agility.

The breakthrough use of linear solenoid actuators instead of more conventional AVS step motors more than trebles the number of control force levels, from 9 to 30. The actuator is more compact, so it can be relocated from the top of the damper unit to its lower side, creating a lower bonnet line and resulting in more cargo space. As a result suspension response time has decreased fourfold, from 80 to 20 milliseconds.

AVS operation is governed by nine control inputs:

• Vehicle Speed Sensing Control achieves ride comfort at low speeds and handling stability at higher speeds

• Roll Attitude Control maintains the vehicle’s optimum attitude during cornering

• Anti-dive Control moderates the tendency to pitch forward during braking

• Anti-Squat Control acts during acceleration to keep the vehicle level

• Rebound Control works best on rough surfaces to smooth out bumps

• Ruggedness Sensing Control decreases damping force when vibration from irregular road surfaces is sensed

• Unsprung Mass Variation Damping Control increases damping forces when components such as wheels start to resonate on uneven surfaces

• VSC Cooperative Control works with the vehicle stability control systems to provide the best handling options when the vehicle starts to skid, for example, on a damp surface

• Pre-Crash Safety System Cooperative Control provides extra damping force for accident avoidance under heavy braking.

POWERTRAIN

• NX 300h with kick down for greater acceleration
• 2.5l Atkinson cycle engine and one or two electric motors total system power 197PS,
• fuel consumption 5.0l/100km, CO₂ from 116g/km
• Available in Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive format
• Innovative All-Wheel Drive system providing optimum control, agility and cornering stability
• while increasing fuel economy

The NX 300h introduces the unique driving experience of Lexus Hybrid Drive to the mid-sized premium SUV segment for the first time. The system combines with a proven Lexus 2.5l Atkinson cycle engine, generator, motor and battery with a highly sophisticated HV control unit developed specially for the NX.

The powertrain delivers a total system output of 145kW (197PS), whilst returning an average fuel consumption of only 5.0l/100km and generating CO₂ emissions as low as 116g/km.

Fine-tuning of the 2.5-litre engine have resulted in greater responsiveness and improved fuel efficiency. Enhancements include a water-to-oil cooler for the electric drive motor for improved motor cooling and a revised front drive reduction ratio, improving fuel economy and hill climbing.

A newly developed HV transaxle provides a kick-down function for greater acceleration. The new transaxle consists of an electric motor generator and an electric drive motor linked by a double set of planetary gears.

The planetary gear set simultaneously fulfils three roles: as a power split device between the generator and the front wheels, as a reduction gear for the electric motor and, when both work together, as an electronically controlled constant velocity transmission (CVT). The transaxle offers sequential shift which allows maximum power to be delivered on call and increases engine braking.

The hybrid power plant can be matched to 2WD or the Lexus E-Four electric motor-powered AWD system.

Acceleration feel

Newly developed HV control software which minimizes engine flare during acceleration increases the sensation of linear acceleration. Engine speed has been increased relative to the accelerator pedal angle, creating a downshift-like feeling. The NX adjusts to the target engine speed and to the G-force applied to the vehicle, providing a more natural acceleration feeling, without excessive adjustment to the engine speed and gear ratio.

The sequential shiftmatic feature meets customer demand for a shifting feel similar to that of a manual gearbox.

New features

The NX has a unique torque control to reduce pitching motion on an uneven road, increasing ride comfort and stability. The Lexus-first pre-loaded front differential, which optimises control when turning, is also adopted with the hybrid version’s E-Four AWD system.

E-Four AWD

The NX 300h’s Lexus E-Four system uses an additional electric motor to drive the rear axle while the front axle is propelled by petrol or electric power, or a combination of both.

The sophisticated E-Four system varies torque distribution to the rear wheels, depending on driving dynamics and road conditions, providing a level of start-off stability and acceleration on slippery road surfaces appropriate to all-wheel drive models.

E-Four saves energy and fuel because the vehicle only uses all-wheel drive when it is needed. When the system detects a loss of traction to the front wheels, it reduces the electricity supply to the traction motor in the transaxle and increases supply to the rear-axle motor. The rear motor acts as a generator when the vehicle is in regenerative braking mode, increasing the amount of kinetic energy recovered.

The Lexus-first feature of a pre-loaded front differential ensures straight line stability and acceleration performance when the differential is under light loads and when there is a low speed difference between the left and right wheels during cornering.

The differential uses a plate spring between the side gear and side-gear washer to add pre-load which limits torque split between the front wheels. At higher speeds it operates as an open differential.

CO₂

The NX 300h achieves CO₂ emissions of from only 116g/km with the FWD model. Improvements were made in aerodynamics, minute transmission changes and control system alterations.

New engine mounts

The NX 300h’s engine mounts are tuned to suppress start-up vibration from the petrol engine, reducing fuel consumption, and contributing to ride comfort. The mounts allow for only 10% of the conventional deviation from the engine’s normal axis away from its centre of gravity – the cause of vibration.

The offset between the axis and the centre of gravity was reduced by a matter of millimetres by adjusting the engine mounts. This detailed work has also had a positive influence on handling.

SAFETY

• Advanced Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS)
• All-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Keep Assists (LKA) & Blind Spot Monitor (BSM ) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
• 6.2’’ Head-Up Display (HUD)
• Automatic High Beam
• High rigidity body
• 8 SRS Airbags
• Enhanced Pedestrian Protection

Designed and engineered to meet the highest safety standards, the new Lexus NX is equipped with a comprehensive array of active, passive and driver assistance systems.

The active safety package includes All Speed Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), newly adopted cornering lamps and Head-Up Display (HUD).

The NX is equipped with daytime running lamps (DRL), a rear view camera and front and rear fog lamps as well as numerous electronic safety features. These include Emergency Brake Signal, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) plus traction control, ABS with brake assist and electronic brake force distribution, and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC).

All-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control

An improved All-Speed Following Function built into the Adaptive Cruise Control uses a Millimetre Wave Radar sensor and steering sensors to recognize the vehicle travelling ahead and maintain a safe distance from it, even if it comes to a complete stop.

Lane Keep Assist

Lane Keep Assist (LKA) with steering control warns the driver with a buzzer if the system judges the vehicle is about to cross the lane markings without using the turn signals, and assists steering to avoid lane departure.

Automatic High Beam

Automatic High Beam (AHB) uses the same windscreen-mounted camera to detect both on-coming and leading traffic, automatically switching the headlamps to high beam when the road ahead is clear. The system will switch to low beam to prevent dazzling other road users and restore high beam when there are no vehicles ahead.

Advanced Pre-Crash Safety system

The multi-layer-strategy PCS uses a millimeter-wavelength radar sensor in the radiator grille to detect vehicles and other obstacles. The radar sensor provides distance measurement for the all-speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).

PCS detects a possible collision between the vehicle and an obstacle, such as a vehicle ahead. If the system assumes a collision is imminent, it activates Pre-Crash Brake to either avoid the collision or reduce collision impact by significant deceleration performance.

Airbags

The new Lexus NX is equipped with eight SRS airbags, including a dual stage driver’s airbag, dual-stage and dual-chamber front passenger airbag, driver knee air bag, front passenger cushion airbag, front-seat side airbags and full length side curtain-shield airbags.

Pedestrian Protection

Pedestrian protection includes an energy-absorbing structure for the hood and the fender mounting bracket as well as an impact-absorbing structure for the cowl. Energy absorbing material has been adopted in front of the bumper and under the radiator support to protect pedestrians’ legs.

LEXUS NX F SPORT

• Unique exterior design elements for even more aggressive and agile look
• Exclusive F SPORT colour and interior features
• Front performance dampers for even greater handling stability

The F SPORT stands out from the rest of the NX model range through unique styling modifications, exclusive colour schemes and dynamic upgrades.

F SPORT grille and exterior

The mesh grille of Lexus performance models combines with a metallic coated lower bumper moulding to set the NX F SPORT apart. The large spindle aperture is graded from bottom to top to express the outline of the distinctive F SPORT motif. The unique frontal appearance of the NX F SPORT is further accentuated by the use of a sporting black coating on the door mirrors and the signature F SPORT emblem on the front quarter panel beneath the A-pillar.

A Lexus-first sports wheel offers the choice of two wheel colours and tyre sizes. A 225/60/18 10-spoke alloy combines black paint on the lateral edges with a luminous machine-brushed finish. A second 10-spoke wheel and tyre combination is a lower profile 235/55/18 with an exclusive dark metallic finish.

F SPORT-exclusive colour and interior

On board, the meter, steering wheel, gear shift, sport seats, pedals, gear shift, leather pad for passenger instrument panel and Dark Rose interior colour are all exclusive to F SPORT models.

Injection-moulded quilted seats hug the occupant’s body to give improved support and lateral holding performance. Perforated non-slip aluminium pedals and a driver’s foot brace provide practical assistance to agile diving. And the steering wheel leather is also perforated to provide even greater feel during performance driving.

The wheel carries the F SPORT emblem in its lower quadrant. The brushed metallic gear shift lever and the scuff plate ornamentation beneath the door are also exclusive to F SPORT models.

Performance dampers

The NX F SPORT is exclusively equipped with front and rear suspension performance dampers, enhancing rigidity and decreasing vibration to optimise handling stability.

G-sensor and boost meter

The NX F SPORT features a Lexus-first ‘G-Monitor’ in its full-colour Multi Information Display (MID).

On the G-Monitor screen, a G-ball moves in accordance with the vehicle’s lateral and longitudinal forces. The MID displays the peak force in each direction. Additional display bars also indicate the steering angle, throttle opening angle and hydraulic brake pressure.

In turbocharged NX F SPORT models, the MID provides a Lexus-first turbo-boost meter with the colour band changing in the high boost pressure range. The analogue displays show oil temperature and pressure.

The all-new Lexus NX marks the company's first entry into the mid-size premium SUV segment. It has been conceived under the development concept of "Premium Urban Sports Gear", much like high quality sports watches, bikes and fashion, as an edgy and emotional design to appeal to new customers who lead urban and active lifestyles.

The highly competitive mid-size sports utility vehicle market is one of the fastest growing in the auto industry. Globally, demand for mid-size SUVs has grown almost seven-fold in the last seven years and it is expected to top one million per year in 2015.

Lexus pioneered the premium SUV segment with the launch of the RX in 1998. With the subsequent arrival of both the GX and LX, the company has gone on to established an enviable reputation for setting new benchmarks in quality, design flair and advanced technology in the premium SUV and 4x4 markets.

UNIQUE DESIGN, OPTIMAL PACKAGE

Its styling clearly influenced by the LF-NX concept vehicles revealed at the 2013 Frankfurt and Tokyo Motor Shows, the NX represents the latest and most progressive expression yet of the Lexus design language.

An exterior combining highly individual front grille styling with a low, cab-forward silhouette creates an aggressive, eye-catching SUV with a particularly powerful road presence designed to attract a new generation of younger, style-conscious customers to the Lexus brand.

The NX also delivers practical solutions to space and luggage requirements.

CUSTOMER-FOCUSED INNOVATION

The new heights in innovation scaled by Lexus in the SUV market are widely represented on board the new NX with a comprehensive array of advanced, user-friendly technologies.

These include a Wireless Charging Tray for portable devices such as mobile phones, the first application of a new Lexus Remote Touch Interface with a Touch Pad, a 360 degree Panoramic View Monitor, an enhanced Multi-Information Display which includes turbo-boost meter and Lexus-first G sensor, and a 6.2'' Head-Up Display.

ENJOYABLE DRIVING DYNAMICS, EFFICIENT POWERTRAINS

Lexus NX makes extensive use of electronic advancements and chassis dynamics to produce a ride and handling package that is dynamic and enjoyable to drive.

In a market previously dominated by diesel engines, nowhere are the higher levels of refinement and progressive luxury which Lexus has introduced to SUV customers more evident that in the adoption of its sophisticated hybrid powertrain technology, first with the ground-breaking RX 400h in 2005 and RX450h in 2009, and now with the all-new NX 300h.

The NX 300h's highly efficient hybrid powertrain emits 116g CO2/km, while delivering a total power output of 197hp.

Each unit may be mated to either front- or all-wheel drive powertrain formats. The NX 300h has been designed to offer an engaging driving experience and outstanding ride comfort in combination with a high level of fuel economy.

The F SPORT version provides more aggressive and bolder design with F SPORT- exclusive styling and trim throughout. Driving dynamics are also enhanced through the adoption of performance dampers.

COMPREHENSIVE SAFETY PACKAGE

Lexus has also redefined standards of safety and driver assistance in the SUV and 4x4 market with the introduction of advanced active, passive and pre-emptive technology.

The new NX benefits from the company's most sophisticated safety systems, including the advanced Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), All-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Automatic High Beam (AHB) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).

• Exclusive F SPORT colour and interior features

• Front performance dampers for even greater handling stability

The F SPORT stands out from the rest of the NX model range through unique styling modifications, exclusive colour schemes and dynamic upgrades.

F SPORT grille and exterior

The mesh grille of Lexus performance models combines with a metallic coated lower bumper moulding to set the NX F SPORT apart. The large spindle aperture is graded from bottom to top to express the outline of the distinctive F SPORT motif. The unique frontal appearance of the NX F SPORT is further accentuated by the use of a sporting black coating on the door mirrors and the signature F SPORT emblem on the front quarter panel beneath the A-pillar.

A Lexus-first sports wheel offers the choice of two wheel colours and tyre sizes. A 225/60/18 10-spoke alloy combines black paint on the lateral edges with a luminous machine-brushed finish. A second 10-spoke wheel and tyre combination is a lower profile 235/55/18 with an exclusive dark metallic finish.

F SPORT-exclusive colour and interior

On board, the meter, steering wheel, gear shift, sport seats, pedals, gear shift, leather pad for passenger instrument panel and Dark Rose interior colour are all exclusive to F SPORT models.

Injection-moulded quilted seats hug the occupant's body to give improved support and lateral holding performance. Perforated non-slip aluminium pedals and a driver's foot brace provide practical assistance to agile diving. And the steering wheel leather is also perforated to provide even greater feel during performance driving.

The wheel carries the F SPORT emblem in its lower quadrant. The brushed metallic gear shift lever and the scuff plate ornamentation beneath the door are also exclusive to F SPORT models.

Performance dampers

The NX F SPORT is exclusively equipped with front and rear suspension performance dampers, enhancing rigidity and decreasing vibration to optimise handling stability.

G-sensor and boost meter

The NX F SPORT features a Lexus-first 'G-Monitor' in its full-colour Multi Information Display (MID).

On the G-Monitor screen, a G-ball moves in accordance with the vehicle's lateral and longitudinal forces. The MID displays the peak force in each direction. Additional display bars also indicate the steering angle, throttle opening angle and hydraulic brake pressure.

In turbocharged NX F SPORT models, the MID provides a Lexus-first turbo-boost meter with the colour band changing in the high boost pressure range. The analogue displays show oil temperature and pressure.

Capturing the audience's imagination, the TV spot depicts the Lexus NX travelling through a futuristic cityscape — showing hints of its progressive form as it passes underneath striking road signs and through impossibly faceted tunnels. As the journey unfolds, will.i.am appears on angled TV screens in a passing shop window before emerging in the flesh from a faceted club, stopping in his tracks to admire the striking design of the NX as it drives past.

Speaking about the ad, which features an exclusive remix of his track, "Dreamin' About the Future", will.i.am said: "As a musician and an entrepreneur, I want my ideas and my presence to impact the world around me. The team at Lexus applied the same vision to the ad — showcasing how the NX impacts the design of the world around it."

Alain Uyttenhoven, Head of Lexus Europe said: "We wanted to bring our design philosophy for the Lexus NX to the forefront, transporting consumers to a world entirely built on revolutionary and striking design. It's an attitude that we apply to everything we do at Lexus — from the design of the car, to the innovative technology within. will.i.am perfectly complements the world that we created, fusing our joint passions for progressive design and technology."

As part of the NX Striking Angles campaign, Lexus has created a one off NX, designed exclusively by will.i.am. The highly stylised car will be unveiled in Paris on 24th September, during the annual Paris Fashion Week.

Consumers can expect further announcements as Lexus continues to bring its philosophy of Amazing in Motion to the streets.

The ad and the Making of can be downloaded from the following links:

The Striking New Lexus NX 30' - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=40K1rOWCXZo

The Striking New Lexus NX 60' - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cXXPtM1gdbY

Making of 'The Striking New Lexus NX' - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWW6wEXkumQ

• Striking coupes also on display: the high-performance RC F and the RC 300h

• New Lexus Live app to easily access press information

The 2014 Paris Motor Show will showcase the new Lexus NX, which marks Lexus' entry into the highly competitive mid-size SUV segment. The new model features a striking design and high-end on-board technology.

The new NX is available with two powertrains: a 2.5L full hybrid engine in the NX 300h and a newly developed 2.0l turbo petrol engine matted with a new 6-speed automatic transmission in the NX 200t. The NX will be offered with Front — and All-Wheel Drive systems.

Two other future Lexus models will also be on display:

• The high-performance RC F, featuring a new 5.0-litre engine which develops 477 hp and 530 Nm of torque, making it the most powerful V8 performance car yet developed by Lexus. The RC F will be on sale throughout Europe at the end of the year.

• The all-new RC 300h, to be launched throughout Europe during the course of 2015. This dynamically styled coupe is equipped with a full hybrid drive that delivers maximum system power of 220 DIN hp/162 kW.

A selection of current Lexus models will also be on the stand including the CT 200h F SPORT, the IS 300h F SPORT and a new special edition of the RX 450h offering Mark Levinson Premium audio system, sunroof, LED headlights and new 19" wheel design.

In order to have easy access to press information, newsfeed and to get, on the stand, an amazing experience of the NX using augmented reality, Lexus is inviting you to download this new LEXUS LIVE app: www.lexus-europe-live.com

The Lexus Press Conference will take place on October 2, at 8:15AM at the Lexus stand in Hall 4.

The 2014 Moscow Motor Show (MIAS) will hold the European Premiere of the new Lexus NX, which marks Lexus' entry into the highly competitive compact SUV segment. The new model with its striking design and high-end on-board technology had its World Premiere on April 20 at the Beijing Motor Show.

The new NX will be available in Russia with three powertrains: NX 200 with 2.0l naturally aspirated petrol engine with CVT transmission, NX 200t with Lexus first, newly developed 2.0l turbo petrol engine and a new 6-speed automatic transmission and NX 300h, equipped with a 2.5l-engined full hybrid powertrain. The NX will be offered with Front — and All-Wheel Drive systems.

Furthermore, Lexus will hold the Russian Premiere of the RC Coupe with its emotional, dynamic design, 3.5l V6 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission. Also the Sport Coupe RC F, featuring the most powerful Lexus V8 engine will be shown in Russia for the first time.

The Lexus Press Conference will be held on August 27 at 8:55AM (local time) in Hall II Exhibition Centre 'Crocus Expo' (Hall 7, Booth 210R).

Toyota Motor Corporation held an official ceremony to mark the start of production of the all new Lexus NX.

The NX is built in the Miyata plant — the same facility which builds the Lexus CT and the Lexus RX - which recently won the Gold Plant Quality Award in the 2014 U.S. Initial Quality Study^SM published by J.D. Power and Associates.

Describing the development of the NX, Masamoto Maekawa, Executive Vice President of Toyota Motor Corporation said: 'The ideas that drove the creation of the NX didn't just come from the development team. We created 'Team NX' which included inputs from marketing, sales planning and production.'

The new Lexus NX marks Lexus entry into the competitive premium mid-size SUV segment. With its striking, edgy design, cutting-edge on-board technology including market firsts, and its agile performance, the new NX is aimed at younger, urban and more design oriented customers.

As part the Striking Angles launch campaign of the new NX Lexus entered a creative collaboration with the Grammy Award winner, will.i.am.

In its first full sales year 2015 the new model is expected to make up a third of Lexus European sales.

The NX will be available with a choice of three powertrains: the full-hybrid powertrain available on the NX 300h, and two petrol powertrains, in NX 200t[1] and the normally aspirated NX 200[2].

[1] NX 200t will be launched from February 2015 in selected European markets.

[2] NX 200 normally aspirated will be sold from December 2014 in Russia.

INNOVATOR TO DESIGN LIMITED EDITION LEXUS NXLexus Europe today announced a creative partnership with global entrepreneur, innovator and musician, will.i.am. The Grammy-Award winner will be working with the brand to champion provocative design and technology, as part of its Striking Angles campaign to launch the new Lexus NX.

The announcement initiates the start of a unique collaboration that will encompass the worlds of music, design and technology. As part of the overall campaign, will.i.am is set to design his own limited edition take on the NX, a sharply-styled premium mid-size SUV. He will also star in the brand's latest television commercial, set to be released later this year.

will.i.am said: "Whatever I do I want it to be striking, I want to innovate and revolutionise and my partnership with Lexus on the Striking Angles campaign is no different. Inspired by a shared philosophy in design, we've been able to work together on a multi-faceted campaign that will challenge design conventions and fuel people's imaginations."

A short collaboration film featuring the singer and songwriter has been released to kick-off the partnership. Celebrating the synergy between innovation and technology, the film visually brings to life will.i.am's track, 'Dreaming about the Future', first debuted as part of will.i.am's Pyramidi installation at the Barbican's Digital Revolution exhibition in London. The track, which also features Brazilian musician, Sérgio Mendes, is central to the immersive installation, supported by Lexus, which showcases a mix of digital and analogue music technologies and projection-mapped visuals. The animated graphics, inspired by will.i.am and Lexus' passion for angular and striking design, also feature in the short film.

Alain Uyttenhoven, Head of Lexus Europe said: "We're really excited to be working with will.i.am. His unrivalled passion for design and innovation coupled with his incredible creativity makes him the perfect partner for our Lexus NX Striking Angles campaign."

Consumers can expect further announcements as Lexus continues to bring its philosophy of Amazing in Motion to the streets.

About Lexus

Launched in 1989, Lexus has become renowned throughout the world for its pursuit of perfection, the outstanding quality and sophisticated high-technology content of its products, and for its unique concept of complete customer service. Further reinforcing the traditional Lexus values of unparalleled build quality, comfort and interior luxury, Lexus is currently rejuvenating its line-up, launching a new wave of emotional and inspirational products featuring bolder product execution, superior driving dynamics and state-of-the-art technologies. Today, Lexus remains the first - and only - premium automotive manufacturer to offer a comprehensive full-hybrid model range comprising the RX 450h, the GS 450h and GS 300h, the LS 600h, the ES 300h, the IS 300h and the CT 200h. In Europe, models featuring Lexus Hybrid Drive account for more than half of all Lexus sales. Lexus sold 43,241 vehicles in Europe in 2013 and aims to increase sales to 50,000 vehicles in 2014. The new NX mid-size crossover, to be launched in the second half of 2014, will represent another significant growth opportunity in the future years.

The all-new Lexus NX marks the company's first entry into the mid-size premium SUV segment. It has been conceived under the development concept of "Premium Urban Sports Gear", much like high quality sports watches, bikes and fashion, as an edgy and emotional design to appeal to new customers who lead urban and active lifestyles.

The highly competitive mid-size sports utility vehicle market is one of the fastest growing in the auto industry. Globally, demand for mid-size SUVs has grown almost seven-fold in the last seven years and it is expected to top one million per year in 2015.

Lexus pioneered the premium SUV segment with the launch of the RX in 1998. With the subsequent arrival of both the GX and LX, the company has gone on to establish an enviable reputation for setting new benchmarks in quality, design flair and advanced technology in the premium SUV and 4x4 markets.

UNIQUE DESIGN, OPTIMAL PACKAGE

Its styling clearly influenced by the LF-NX concept vehicles revealed at the 2013 Frankfurt and Tokyo Motor Shows, the NX represents the latest and most progressive expression yet of the Lexus design language.

An exterior combining highly individual front grille styling with a low, cab-forward silhouette creates an aggressive, eye-catching SUV with a particularly powerful road presence designed to attract a new generation of younger, style-conscious customers to the Lexus brand.

The NX also delivers practical solutions to space and luggage requirements.

CUSTOMER-FOCUSED INNOVATION

The new heights in innovation scaled by Lexus in the SUV market are widely represented on board the new NX with a comprehensive array of advanced, user-friendly technologies.

These include a Wireless Charging Tray for portable devices such as mobile phones, the first application of a new Lexus Remote Touch Interface with a Touch Pad, a 360 degree Panoramic View Monitor, an enhanced Multi-Information Display which includes turbo-boost meter and Lexus-first G sensor, and a 6.2'' Head-Up Display.

ENJOYABLE DRIVING DYNAMICS, EFFICIENT POWERTRAINS

Lexus NX makes extensive use of electronic advancements and chassis dynamics to produce a ride and handling package that is dynamic and enjoyable to drive.

In a market previously dominated by diesel engines, nowhere are the higher levels of refinement and progressive luxury which Lexus has introduced to SUV customers more evident than in the adoption of its sophisticated hybrid powertrain technology, first with the ground-breaking RX 400h in 2005, the RX 450h in 2009 and now with the all-new NX 300h.

The NX 300h's highly efficient hybrid powertrain emits 116g CO₂/km, while delivering a total power output of 197hp.

The NX is also available with an all-new Lexus-developed 2.0l petrol turbo engine in the NX 200t[1]. Each unit may be mated to either front- or all-wheel drive powertrain formats.

The NX has been designed to offer an engaging driving experience and outstanding ride comfort in combination with a high level of fuel economy.

The F SPORT version provides more aggressive and bolder design with F SPORT- exclusive styling and trim throughout. Driving dynamics are also enhanced through the adoption of performance dampers.

COMPREHENSIVE SAFETY PACKAGE

Lexus has also redefined standards of safety and driver assistance in the SUV and 4x4 market with the introduction of advanced active, passive and pre-emptive technology.

The new NX benefits from the company's most sophisticated safety systems, including the advanced Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), All-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Automatic High Beam (AHB).

10 AMAZING FACTS ABOUT THE NEW NX

1. Door handle mechanism: features a hidden key barrel and integrated lighting

2. Rear Power Seat: segment-first rear 40:60 power-folding operated via controls accessible from the instrument panel, the luggage compartment and each side of the rear seat.

3. Shimamoku: wood polishing process to create a unique polished steel finish inspired by Yamaha's top grade concert piano. The surface treatment prevents reflections from the stage lights which might distract the performer. Lexus introduced Shimamoku in the GS interior ornamentation and the LS steering wheel.

4. Wireless Charging Tray: located in the centre console it allows smart phones to be recharged by being simply placed on the charging tray, with no need for a cable.

5. 360-degree Panoramic View Monitor: allows to view the NX as if looking down at it from above and accurately check the surroundings before driving off

6. Remote Touch Interface with Touch Pad: placed in the centre console it provides easy access to ancillary controls with minimum driver distraction.

7. Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System with Clari-Fi — a world-first in automotive sector. The system analyses and improves the audio quality of all types of compressed, digitalized music sources.

8. New generation linear-solenoid type Adaptive Variable Suspension: refined adjustment of suspension damping now with an increased number of adjustment levels from 9 to 30.

9. All-new Lexus 2.0l VVT-iW turbo engine and newly developed 6-speed automatic transmission

10. Advanced Pre-Crash Safety system combined with All-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) detects a possible collision between the NX and an obstacle in front. If the system assumes a collision is imminent, it activates Pre-Crash Brake to either avoid the collision or mitigate its impact by significant deceleration performance.

DESIGN AND PACKAGING

• Muscular and edgy exterior design demonstrating a strong SUV character

• Bold yet luxurious interior design combining prominent chrome elements with high quality leather and wood

• Driver-focused cockpit with ergonomically structured operation and display zones

• Ample interior space combining SUV functionality with Lexus luxury and comfort

The design of the new Lexus NX was substantially influenced by the 2013 LF-NX concept vehicles that were shown, first as hybrid at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and then at the Tokyo Motor Show powered by an all-new turbo drivetrain.

Exterior

Chief Exterior Designer Nobuyuki Tomatsu designed the NX to provide a feeling of agility not usually associated with an SUV, while also being suitable for urban use. At a glance, its aggressive styling hints at both functionality and performance.

The NX combines a low roofline with an aggressive, cab-forward silhouette. Powerfully flared front and rear fenders are fused to a diamond-shaped body with lines generated from the spindle grille. The NX has the most individual and aggressive front face in the Lexus line-up, its prominent spindle grille accentuated by new LED headlamps and LED day time running lights (DRL).

The sleek side profile is accentuated by a roofline which falls towards the back of the vehicle. The bold flared wheel arches housing 17 or 18-inch wheels provide a crouching, muscular stance.

The world's first door handle mechanism to feature a hidden key barrel and integrated lighting combines with an aerodynamic door mirror design enhance the premium appearance of the NX's smooth, flowing lines.

Echoing the spindle grille design of the front, the rear of the NX features L-shaped combination lamps with seamless LED lighting.

Aerodynamics

The NX achieves an ideal balance of aerodynamics and design. Its compact shape proved particularly challenging during the aerodynamic development of the car. The adoption of a rear spoiler proved essential in creating a smooth airflow from the back of the vehicle, and extensive wind tunnel testing led to the trailing edge of the fin being given a slightly upturned lip. This detail not only created a striking design accent but also provided the best Cd value -just 0.33.

The front and rear spats, rear floor cover and HV engine undercover are newly developed for the NX. The shape and composition of the engine undercover offer both heat resistance and enhanced aerodynamics.

Lights and lamps

Lexus-first low energy consumption LED lights play a major role in defining NX's design objectives. LEDs allow for faster illumination while saving energy. The NX incorporates a total of 90 LEDs.

Each headlamp cluster features 6 new, high-brightness LEDs, including 3 L-shape low beam lamps. 23 LEDs are used for the daytime running lamps and another 16 for turning signals on each side. Thick inner lenses give the units an eye-catching, crystal-like shine.

The NX also features adaptive cornering lamps with LEDs. When the turn indicators are activated two LED lamps operate automatically to better illuminate the bend ahead.

A design breakthrough in rear illumination and exacting production accuracy gives the NX a unique rear lamp signature; an uninterrupted flow of light crossing seamlessly from the tailgate to the body. The thick wall moulding technology adopted for the outer lens combines with inner refraction detailing to give the impression of a cut crystal glass lamp.

Door handle design

The newly designed door handle has no visible key hole, a world-first for a pull handle of this type. A structure has been devised that allows the key to be inserted behind the handle if necessary.

A single LED lamp both provides a welcoming silhouette along the top of the handle and a puddle light on the ground below. Reflecting the Lexus tenet of seamless hospitality, the lamp automatically illuminates as the user approaches the NX whilst, simultaneously, the new Remote Touch Interface illuminates within the interior.

Door mirrors

Attaching directly to the door to give an expanded field of vision, newly designed door mirrors optimise rear visibility and reduce wind noise. Metal trim accentuates a stylish design that both reduces sunlight reflection and eliminates dazzle. Airflow between the mirror and the car -a source of wind noise- has been minimised, and the use of a small fixed quarterlight window improves side visibility in front of the mirror.

New colours 

The Lexus NX features a new exterior colour, Sonic White. Along with Sonic Silver (introduced on the Lexus GS) and Sonic Titanium (introduced on the IS), Sonic White is one of the Lexus-created Sonic colours designed to produce a metal-like shine. Sonic White is brighter than the brightest conventional white.

Sonic technology separates the paint film into two layers, one cosmetic and the other functional. After drying, the cosmetic layer is condensed to one third of its previous thickness, compacting its mica particles for strong reflectivity and shading. Mica particles are transparent yet luminous, which creates strong reflections and shadows.

Four further colours are neutral — Satin Silver, Mercury Grey, Black and Starlight Black. And three nuance colours -Morello Red, Sienna Brown and Meteor Blue Mica Metallic- are designed to appeal to younger, urban-chic customers.

The NX F SPORT is available in an exclusive Ultrasonic Blue; a highly vivid chromatic colour designed to highlight the model's unique, sporting appeal.

Exclusive wheels

Lexus has created a new range of cast alloy wheels for the NX. They feature a variety of glossy surface finishes, each designed for light weight.

There is a choice of one 17-inch 10-spoke design wheels and two 18-inch cast alloy wheel designs. One of the latter features a three-dimensional centre and a U-shaped graphic element on each of its five axes. The second achieves strong visual depth through a dynamic three-dimensional section combined with highly luminous machined Y-shaped spokes.

The Lexus NX F SPORT offers customers two bespoke wheels. The 225/60R18 wheel makes use of new black paint combined with a highly luminous machine finish to express an aggressive, sporting image. A slightly lower profile 235/55R18 wheel has an exclusive dark premium metallic highly textured finish.

Interior

Chief Interior Designer Tetsuo Miki designed the NX to bring a sense of excitement to the cabin atmosphere that directly evokes 'Premium Urban Sports Gear'. The core idea was to combine the structural beauty of a high-performance machine with materials and textures that provide luxury and functionality.

The new NX's ergonomically designed, driver-focused cockpit enables customers to remain alert and comfortable over long periods of time. Lexus' Human Machine Interface (HMI) technology offers fast, intuitive operation of all switches and controls to minimise driver distraction.

The interior design of the Lexus NX reflects the bold character of its exterior. It combines the structural beauty and functionality of a performance machine with materials and textures that focus on luxury and comfort.

The prominent silver centre console frame is strongly embedded in the instrument panel to symbolise the NX's rugged, SUV character. It is flanked by soft leather knee pads on both sides which create a strong contrast to the metallic frame whilst firmly supporting the driver and passenger. Wood inserts further underline the natural luxury of the interior.

Maximizing space in a mid-size SUV

The NX provides ample room to all occupants, with segment-best space advantages in critical areas. Its front to rear couple distance is a class-leading 962mm and the high-roof design has resulted in exceptional head clearance. Its rear knee room provides even more space than that of some bigger SUVs.

Luggage room is also spacious and practical. Maximum loadspace width is 1,347mm, enough to store golf bags sideway. Additional storage space is available under the luggage board. This results in a total luggage capacity of up to 555l in hybrid models and 580l in petrol variants[2].

As befitting a practical SUV, the NX cabin is equipped with a wide variety of storage bins. These include glove and console boxes, a console mid-tray, utility box, sunglasses storage bin, cup holders and front and rear door pockets. The centre cup holders are big enough for two half litre bottles and the door pocket bottle holders can each hold one half litre plastic bottle.

Rear Power Seat

The NX offers customers the option of Lexus-first and segment-first 40:60 rear power-folding seats. Operated via controls mounted on the instrument panel, each side of the rear seat and the luggage compartment, the seats fold fully flat in only 10 seconds.

Meters and switches — human interaction

The analogue clock, speedometer, tachometer and HV system indicator have spin-milling-processed faces to create a sense of unity and a subtle impression of genuine metal.

Hybrid models are equipped with a hybrid system indicator showing power output and regeneration in real time. The hybrid-specific dial changes to a tachometer when the vehicle is in SPORT mode.

The Eco Driving Indicator supports environment-friendly driving by displaying the range of Eco-friendly acceleration and the status of acceleration in real time.

A 4.2-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) LCD providing a full-colour Multi Information Display (MID) is positioned at the centre of the instrument cluster. Ambient illumination in the MID is linked to the Drive Mode Select switch and changes colour for each mode. Using the Multimedia Linkage Function, the MID can also display phone and audio information.

For the first time on a Lexus, the NX introduces touch switches in the head lining for the front dome lamp and map lamp switches. A microcomputer detects the proximity of the user's finger to turn the lamps on and off.

Welcoming illumination is an important part of Lexus' appeal to customers. RTI lights up along with the door handles when the owner approaches the NX with the key. It remains illuminated when the owner enters the car.

Foot well lighting, particularly important as a safety assurance and to provide a feeling of luxury, centres on the occupant's seating position. For maximum night-time visibility the rear dome lamp is fitted with an LED lamp.

Materials

The interior of the new NX was developed with the high level of attention-to-detail which characterises every Lexus. For example, the interior surface of the bottle holder in the middle console is finished in a high friction material that allows the driver to open the bottle with just one hand.

Shimamoku wood — an inspiration

The Lexus NX features a wood polishing process to create a unique polished steel finish, inspired by Yamaha's top grade concert piano. Called Shimamoku, the surface treatment prevents reflections from the stage lights which might distract the performer or the conductor.

Lexus introduced Shimamoku in the GS interior ornamentation and the LS steering wheel in 2012, but for the first time it has devised an eight-step process on the new NX, resulting in a distinctive, soft gloss, non-reflective finish.

ON - BOARD TECHNOLOGY

• Wireless Charging Tray for cable free phone charging

• 360° Panoramic View Monitor for greater safety on and off road

• 6.2'' Head-Up Display for easy information access

• Remote Touch Interface (RTI) with Touch Pad, Multi-Information Display (MID), etc.

• Top of the range Mark Levinson Surround Sound System with first automotive industry use of music quality-improving Clari-fi

Several innovative on board technologies make their first appearance in the NX, making the ownership experience even more enjoyable.

Wireless Charging Tray

A new Wireless Charging Tray is located in the centre console box. It allows smart phones, or other items compatible with international wireless charging standards (qi protocol), to be recharged by being simply placed on the tray, with no need for a cable.

Panoramic View Monitor

The new NX is equipped with a Lexus-first, 360-degree Panoramic View Monitor developed to offer drivers a high degree of reassurance when driving in confined spaces, both on and off road, at speeds up to 20km/h.

A purpose-built ECU mounted behind the C-pillar constantly monitors input from four interconnected cameras placed in the left- and right-front mirrors, the front grille and rear garnish.

The ECU processes the images and plays them back on the audio and navigation display monitor in a selection of seven sequences. It is even possible to view the NX as if looking down at it from above and accurately check its surroundings before driving off.

The new Panoramic View Monitor allows the driver to see obstacles which, using conventional rear- or front-view cameras, would be in blind spots. The system features full-screen imaging, without the 'letterboxing' created by an analogue camera format.

The Panoramic View Monitor is used in conjunction with Lexus Park Assist, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), which detects crossing obstacles in the driver's blind spot when reversing from a parking spot.

Head-Up Display

The Head-Up Display projects a range of information onto the bottom sector of the windscreen, including vehicle speed, engine rpm, navigation guidance and audio settings.

Remote Touch Interface

A new Remote Touch Interface with Touch Pad is an integral part of the operation zone in the centre console. The RTI's ergonomic structure helps the hand normally locate the on-screen icons. A palm rest is provided for greater ease of operation. The RTI provides fast, intuitive, on-the-move access to ancillary controls with minimum driver distraction. It can also easily be accessed by the front-seat passenger.

Audio systems

The highly-rigid bodyshell of the Lexus NX provides an ideal platform for two high quality audio systems; an 8- or 10-speaker Pioneer Premium Sound system, and a 14-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround System.

Pre-programmed sound equalizing in the NX differs to that of other Lexus models due to the difference in interior space and cabin layout. Both audio systems have been purpose-built for the new NX, addressing the increasing popularity of the use of compressed sound as a music source, and enhancing its quality.

The Pioneer system uses a newly developed Digital Signal Processor (DSP) to restore high notes lost through compression. A full digital Class D amplifier powers 16cm speakers in the front doors combined with 6.5cm tweeters mounted in the instrument panel.

The Mark Levinson Premium Surround System uses patented high efficiency technology which more than doubles sound output with the same expenditure of energy. The system employs a 12-channel Class D amplifier, and new Unity technology that places 9cm speakers at each end of the instrument panel. The total system develops 125 watts per channel and 835 watts overall with distortion limited to below 0.1 per cent.

Making its very first appearance in the automotive market, Clari-Fi is available with the Mark Levinson Premium Surround System. It analyses and improves the audio quality of all types of compressed, digitalized music sources.

DRIVING DYNAMICS

· High rigidity body and suspension characteristics for stability, agility responsive handling

· and outstanding ride comfort

· Drive Mode Select to adjust vehicle behaviour to road conditions and driving style

· Refined Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) combines ride comfort with increased stability when cornering

The new NX has been designed to offer customers an engaging and agile driving experience while also ensuring outstanding ride comfort.

NX chief engineer, Takeaki Kato, said his team benchmarked innovations in Lexus' IS to provide agility and stability. Mechanical assistance such as differential pre-load for better, more precise cornering, has been markedly improved.

Thanks to enhancements to the Adaptive Variable Suspension system, its control force levels have been increased from 9 to 30.

High rigidity body

Extensive use of hot-stamped high tensile strength sheet steel, combined with aluminium, has resulted in a light weight, highly rigid bodyshell.

Advanced production techniques pioneered during the development of the Lexus IS (particularly body adhesives, laser screw welding and additional spot welds) have been used to strengthen panel joints.

Laser screw welding around the door openings is supplemented by new body adhesive techniques in the door openings, rear wheel housing and rear floor. Reinforcement around suspension members creates a strong platform and the number three cross-member is reinforced to support the drivetrain.

A high rigidity urethane sealant has been used for the windshield glass, effectively making the glass a load-bearing member and increasing resistance to body flex.

Heavy duty damping force has been applied to the NX's rear door struts to ensure consistently snug alignment.

Suspension

Of all the attributes of the Lexus NX, perhaps the most outstanding is the unique combination of superior ride and highly responsive handling.

The Lexus NX uses MacPherson strut front suspension with high-rigidity upper supports and low-friction strut bearings. The suspension hardware includes barrel-shaped coil springs, large diameter high-rigidity wheel bearings, high damping bushings for the strut and number two lower arm mounting, and a high rigidity stabilizer bar.

At the rear, a newly devised trailing arm double wishbone rear suspension system optimises agility, stability and ride comfort. Separating the coil springs and damper units also minimises suspension component intrusion into the luggage compartment and allows for the lowest possible load space floor.

Special features include high rigidity lower arm mountings, low friction dampers and an increased consistency in spring movement due to the shape of the trailing arm bushings.

Force control was a priority; minimizing the sound of shake and shudder caused by lateral loads from the road surface which changes the tread width of a tyre as the wheel reacts to an undulation.

The NX has reinforced front lower suspension arm mountings so the tread width does not change with the wheel stroke. This also provides optimum steering feel and input control.

Chassis rigidity is the key to optimum suspension delivery and, hence, agility. Due to the particularly high rigidity of the new NX's bodyshell, it has been possible to increase the spring rate of the front upper support bushings over that which would have been possible with a softer platform, further optimising the suspension for greater agility.

Even the rigidity of the steering column installation is beyond normal parameters. Friction between the moving parts of the dampers has been minimized to overcome the feeling of road shock during cornering.

The bound and rebound curves of the dampers have been optimized, especially at low piston velocities, to suppress body pitch and roll. Front and rear performance dampers are gas-pressurized and precisely machined to dampen miniscule vibrations in the body.

Drive Mode Select

Lexus Drive Mode Select provides integrated control of multiple systems to enhance driving pleasure and performance.

Via a centre console dial, Drive Mode Select offers drivers the choice of NORMAL, ECO, SPORT S and SPORT S+ driving modes. Hybrid models have a button adjacent to the dial to enable an additional EV mode to be selected. Each mode controls throttle action depending on whether economy or performance is required.

Drive Mode Select simultaneously modifies the power steering assistance curve and enables a choice of two suspension damping force settings.

Adaptive Variable Suspension

The NX features new generation linear-solenoid type AVS. Operating in conjunction with Drive Mode Select, it automatically adjusts the suspension damping under all driving conditions to combine the greatest possible straight line ride comfort and high speed stability with suppression of body roll and optimum cornering agility.

The breakthrough use of linear solenoid actuators instead of more conventional AVS step motors more than trebles the number of control force levels, from 9 to 30. The actuator is more compact, so it can be relocated from the top of the damper unit to its lower side, creating a lower bonnet line and resulting in more cargo space. As a result suspension response time has decreased fourfold, from 80 to 20 milliseconds.

AVS operation is governed by nine control inputs:

• Vehicle Speed Sensing Control achieves ride comfort at low speeds and handling stability at higher speeds

• Roll Attitude Control maintains the vehicle's optimum attitude during cornering

• Anti-dive Control moderates the tendency to pitch forward during braking

• Anti-Squat Control acts during acceleration to keep the vehicle level

• Rebound Control works best on rough surfaces to smooth out bumps

• Ruggedness Sensing Control decreases damping force when vibration from irregular road surfaces is sensed

• Unsprung Mass Variation Damping Control increases damping forces when components such as wheels start to resonate on uneven surfaces

• VSC Cooperative Control works with the vehicle stability control systems to provide the best handling options when the vehicle starts to skid, for example, on a damp surface

• Pre-Crash Safety System Cooperative Control provides extra damping force for accident avoidance under heavy braking.

ENGINES & POWERTRAINS 

• New Lexus NX available with a choice of two main engines and powertrains

• NX 300h with 2.5l Atkinson cycle engine and one or two electric motors generating a total system power of 197PS resulting in a fuel consumption of 5.0l/100km and CO₂ from 116g/km[3]

• NX 200t with 2.0l turbo petrol engine and newly developed six-speed automatic transmission available in selected European countries⁴

• Both powertrains available in Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive format

• Innovative All-Wheel Drive system providing optimum control, agility and cornering stability while increasing fuel economy

The NX will be launched with a choice of two main engines:

1. NX 300h -equipped with a 2.5l Atkinson cycle hybrid petrol engine combined with E-CVT (and E-Four system for AWD models)

2. NX 200t -equipped with Lexus' all-new 2.0l VVT-iW (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide) turbo petrol engine and newly developed six-speed automatic transmission

All-Wheel Drive system

All powertrains will offer the choice of front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) systems.

The NX 300h's all-wheel drive system, which employs an additional electric motor to drive system the rear axle when required. Grip, control and agility are enhanced by innovations including a pre-loaded front differential and yaw rate feedback control, available on all NX AWD models.

The NX 200t's AWD system can instantly vary front to rear torque split between 50:50 and 100:0 for optimum traction and fuel economy.

The Lexus-first feature of a pre-loaded front differential ensures straight line stability and acceleration performance when the differential is under light loads and when there is a low speed difference between the left and right wheels during cornering.

The differential uses a plate spring between the side gear and side-gear washer to add pre-load which limits torque split between the front wheels. At higher speeds it operates as an open differential.

Dynamic Torque Control AWD

Introduced on NX petrol AWD models, Dynamic Torque Control AWD provides maximum traction and cornering stability while optimizing fuel economy.

The system continuously controls torque transfer between the front and rear wheels, using sensors for vehicle speed, steering angle, steering speed, throttle angle and yaw rate.

During normal cruising, drive is through the front wheels only to increase fuel economy. When required, the system automatically switches to AWD through an electromagnetically controlled coupling in the rear differential housing, directing up to 50 per cent of available torque to the rear wheels.

During cornering, pre-torque control enhances steering feel and optimises vehicle stability by reducing the load on the front tyres. This happens as soon as the driver starts to turn the steering wheel, allowing the vehicle to track the intended driving line more accurately.

NX 300h

The NX 300h introduces the unique driving experience of Lexus Hybrid Drive to the mid-sixed premium SUV segment for the first time. The system combines with a proven Lexus 2.5l Atkinson cycle engine, generator, motor and battery with a highly sophisticated HV control unit developed specially for the NX.

The powertrain delivers a total system output of 145kW (197PS), whilst returning an average fuel consumption of only 5.0l/100km and generating CO₂ emissions as low as 116g/km.

Fine-tuning of the 2.5-litre engine have resulted in greater responsiveness and improved fuel efficiency. Enhancements include a water-to-oil cooler for the electric drive motor for improved motor cooling and a revised front drive reduction ratio, improving fuel economy and hill climbing.

A newly developed HV transaxle provides a kick-down function for greater acceleration. The new transaxle consists of an electric motor generator and an electric drive motor linked by a double set of planetary gears.

The planetary gear set simultaneously fulfils three roles: as a power split device between the generator and the front wheels, as a reduction gear for the electric motor and, when both work together, as an electronically controlled constant velocity transmission (CVT). The transaxle offers sequential shift which allows maximum power to be delivered on call and increases engine braking.

The hybrid power plant can be matched to 2WD or the Lexus E-Four electric motor-powered AWD system.

Acceleration feel

Newly developed HV control software which minimizes engine flare during acceleration increases the sensation of linear acceleration. Engine speed has been increased relative to the accelerator pedal angle, creating a downshift-like feeling. The NX adjusts to the target engine speed and to the G-force applied to the vehicle, providing a more natural acceleration feeling, without excessive adjustment to the engine speed and gear ratio.

The sequential shiftmatic feature meets customer demand for a shifting feel similar to that of a manual gearbox.

New features

The NX has a unique torque control to reduce pitching motion on an uneven road, increasing ride comfort and stability. The Lexus-first pre-loaded front differential, which optimises control when turning, is also adopted with the hybrid version's E-Four AWD system.

E-Four AWD

The NX 300h's Lexus E-Four system uses an additional electric motor to drive the rear axle while the front axle is propelled by petrol or electric power, or a combination of both.

The sophisticated E-Four system varies torque distribution to the rear wheels, depending on driving dynamics and road conditions, providing a level of start-off stability and acceleration on slippery road surfaces appropriate to all-wheel drive models.

E-Four saves energy and fuel because the vehicle only uses all-wheel drive when it is needed. When the system detects a loss of traction to the front wheels, it reduces the electricity supply to the traction motor in the transaxle and increases supply to the rear-axle motor. The rear motor acts as a generator when the vehicle is in regenerative braking mode, increasing the amount of kinetic energy recovered.

CO₂

The NX 300h achieves CO₂ emissions of from only 116g/km with the FWD model. Improvements were made in aerodynamics, minute transmission changes and control system alterations.

New engine mounts

The NX 300h's engine mounts are tuned to suppress start-up vibration from the petrol engine, reducing fuel consumption, and contributing to ride comfort. The mounts allow for only 10% of the conventional deviation from the engine's normal axis away from its centre of gravity — the cause of vibration.

The offset between the axis and the centre of gravity was reduced by a matter of millimetres by adjusting the engine mounts. This detailed work has also had a positive influence on handling.

NX 200t: New turbocharged engine — a Lexus breakthrough

The world-first 2.0-liter turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine was developed in-house by Lexus to marry exciting performance with fuel efficiency. The innovative engine integrates a water cooled cylinder head with a four-into-two exhaust manifold incorporating a twin scroll turbocharger.

The 2.0-litre Lexus Turbo engine employs an air to liquid intercooler mounted directly to the engine. To minimise turbo lag, the four-into-two manifold system pairs cylinders according to their expansion or compression stroke and, when combined with the turbocharger, reduces pumping losses. The dual pipe design also allows for optimum petrol flow, improving performance.

Integrated systems control

Low speed torque and optimized fuel economy as well as compliance with emissions regulations were the goals of combing the cylinder head, exhaust manifold and intercooler with variable waste gate control. Active waste gate control minimizes pumping losses by reducing back pressure during low engine load, contributing to the NX turbo meeting EURO6 emission requirements.

Maximum power is 175 kW (238 hp) at 4800-5600rpm with 350Nm of torque from 1650-4000rpm. It achieves CO₂ emissions of 189g/km and fuel consumption of 8.3l/100km[4].

Innovative Dual VVT-iW Technology

The new Lexus 2,0 litre Turbo features innovative Dual VVT-iW technology. This optimizes torque throughout the engine revolution range and allows the engine to start in the Otto cycle and yet run in the more fuel efficient Atkinson cycle. The VVT-iW system has a mid-position lock to enable Atkinson cycle to be maintained without sacrificing starting performance in cold weather and also to deliver wide open throttle performance. The late intake valve closing of the Atkinson cycle reduces pumping losses and boosts fuel economy.

Advanced features

The NX turbo engine is cast with low nickel content heat resistant steel. Cooling oil jets under the pistons improve durability and enhance warm-up performance. The new engine has a balance shaft for optimum smoothness.

The acceleration curve prioritises torque delivery at low speeds. The water-cooled intercooler provides strong advantages in starting off acceleration and a 0.3-second reduction in 0—100km/h acceleration time over an air-to-air type alternative.

Weights, measures and better turbo sounds

The turbo engine weighs just 160kg and was bench-tested for more than 10,000 hours before extensive on-road testing began, covering more than one million kilometres. A newly developed lubricating calcium free oil removes the chance of engine knock at low engine revolutions.

Turbo engines tend to be noisy when the throttle is closed (referred to as the 'turbo sigh'). As a turbocharged engine requires smooth intake flow for performance, Lexus engineers focused on creating special duct shapes which deliver power without noise.

New transmission

A new sequential automatic six-speed transmission cooperates with the new motor to achieve a balance of boost pressure for performance and fuel economy. Torque-demand control logic calculates required engine torque, maximising it to deliver quick, responsive acceleration.

SAFETY

Advanced Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS)

All-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control

Lane Keep Assists (LKA) & Blind Spot Monitor (BSM ) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)

6.2'' Head-Up Display (HUD)

Automatic High Beam (AHB)

High rigidity body

8 SRS Airbags

Enhanced Pedestrian Protection

Designed and engineered to meet the highest safety standards, the new Lexus NX is equipped with a comprehensive array of active, passive and driver assistance systems.

Active Safety

The active safety package includes All Speed Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), newly adopted cornering lamps and Head-Up Display (HUD).

The NX is equipped with daytime running lamps (DRL), a rear view camera and front and rear fog lamps as well as numerous electronic safety features. These include Emergency Brake Signal, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) plus traction control, ABS with brake assist and electronic brake force distribution, and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC).

All-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control

An improved All-Speed Following Function built into the Adaptive Cruise Control uses a Millimetre Wave Radar sensor and steering sensors to recognize the vehicle travelling ahead and maintain a safe distance from it, even if it comes to a complete stop.

Lane Keep Assist

Lane Keep Assist (LKA) with steering control warns the driver with a buzzer if the system judges the vehicle is about to cross the lane markings without using the turn signals, and assists steering to avoid lane departure.

Automatic High Beam

Automatic High Beam (AHB) uses the same windscreen-mounted camera to detect both on-coming and leading traffic, automatically switching the headlamps to high beam when the road ahead is clear. The system will switch to low beam to prevent dazzling other road users and restore high beam when there are no vehicles ahead.

Advanced Pre-Crash Safety system

The multi-layer-strategy PCS uses a millimeter-wavelength radar sensor in the radiator grille to detect vehicles and other obstacles. The radar sensor provides distance measurement for the all-speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).

PCS detects a possible collision between the vehicle and an obstacle, such as a vehicle ahead. If the system assumes a collision is imminent, it activates Pre-Crash Brake to either avoid the collision or reduce collision impact by significant deceleration performance.

Passive Safety

Body Structure

Reflecting the stringent car-to-car impact compatibility standards unique to the Lexus marque, the new NX has been created with the aim of achieving class-leading safety.

Front and side collision protection measures include the use of high tensile-strength steel sheet up to 980Mpa in key areas including the centre-pillar hinge reinforcement, outer rockers and roof cross members. In a crash, side impact load is transmitted to the floor through a structure of cross-members built into the rocker beneath the centre B-pillar.

The Lexus NX has a comprehensive roof impact resistance structure which disperses load when the roof is crushed, minimizing cabin distortion. The structure includes front pillar reinforcement and high strength steel reinforcements for the centre pillar, as well as reinforcement around the seatbelt anchor.

Within the cabin, the NX has energy-absorbing structures in the pillars and roof head lining. There are impact-absorbing pads in the front and rear door trim adjacent to the occupant's lumbar region. Lexus Whiplash-Injury Lessening front seats are fitted to all models.

Airbags

The new Lexus NX is equipped with eight SRS airbags, including a dual stage driver's airbag, dual-stage and dual-chamber front passenger airbag, driver knee air bag, front passenger cushion airbag, front-seat side airbags and full length side curtain-shield airbags.

Pedestrian Protection

Pedestrian protection includes an energy-absorbing structure for the hood and the fender mounting bracket as well as an impact-absorbing structure for the cowl. Energy absorbing material has been adopted in front of the bumper and under the radiator support to protect pedestrians' legs.

LEXUS NX F SPORT

• Unique exterior design elements for even more aggressive and agile look

• Exclusive F SPORT colour and interior features

• Front performance dampers for even greater handling stability

The F SPORT stands out from the rest of the NX model range through unique styling modifications, exclusive colour schemes and dynamic upgrades.

F SPORT grille and exterior

The mesh grille of Lexus performance models combines with a metallic coated lower bumper moulding to set the NX F SPORT apart. The large spindle aperture is graded from bottom to top to express the outline of the distinctive F SPORT motif. The unique frontal appearance of the NX F SPORT is further accentuated by the use of a sporting black coating on the door mirrors and the signature F SPORT emblem on the front quarter panel beneath the A-pillar.

A Lexus-first sports wheel offers the choice of two wheel colours and tyre sizes. A 225/60/18 10-spoke alloy combines black paint on the lateral edges with a luminous machine-brushed finish. A second 10-spoke wheel and tyre combination is a lower profile 235/55/18 with an exclusive dark metallic finish.

F SPORT-exclusive colour and interior

On board, the meter, steering wheel, gear shift, sport seats, pedals, gear shift, leather pad for passenger instrument panel and Dark Rose interior colour are all exclusive to F SPORT models.

Injection-moulded quilted seats hug the occupant's body to give improved support and lateral holding performance. Perforated non-slip aluminium pedals and a driver's foot brace provide practical assistance to agile diving. And the steering wheel leather is also perforated to provide even greater feel during performance driving.

The wheel carries the F SPORT emblem in its lower quadrant. The brushed metallic gear shift lever and the scuff plate ornamentation beneath the door are also exclusive to F SPORT models.

Performance dampers

The NX F SPORT is exclusively equipped with front and rear suspension performance dampers, enhancing rigidity and decreasing vibration to optimise handling stability.

G-sensor and boost meter

The NX F SPORT features a Lexus-first 'G-Monitor' in its full-colour Multi Information Display (MID).

On the G-Monitor screen, a G-ball moves in accordance with the vehicle's lateral and longitudinal forces. The MID displays the peak force in each direction. Additional display bars also indicate the steering angle, throttle opening angle and hydraulic brake pressure.

In turbocharged NX F SPORT models, the MID provides a Lexus-first turbo-boost meter with the colour band changing in the high boost pressure range. The analogue displays show oil temperature and pressure.

[1] The NX 200t will be available in selected European markets. In addition there is a 2.0l normally aspirated engine which in Europe will be sold only in Russia.

[2] With tyre repair kit

[3] Toyota in-house measured figures. ⁴ Additionally a normally aspirated 2.0l engine will be available in Russia.

[4] Toyota in-house measured figures.

Today Lexus announces its sponsorship of will.i.am's debut artwork in a gallery space, Pyramidi, designed in collaboration with artist Yuri Suzuki. The artwork will be on show to the public at the Barbican's Digital Revolution exhibition from the 3rd July 2014.

The installation explores the interface between analogue and digital music in a live gallery experience featuring projection-mapped visuals accompanied by a newly commissioned song by will.i.am.

It forms part of a show called Sound and Vision. The show explores how digital has influenced the visualisation of music. Pyramidi is one of the key pieces of work which will be part of a collection from artists such as Chris Milk, Björk, Brian Eno, Radiohead and Squarepusher.

Lexus' support of the new Barbican Digital Revolution exhibition builds on the brand's heritage in technology and innovation. Through partnering with will.i.am on this exciting live gallery experience Lexus have been able to celebrate their on-going commitment to creativity and design.

Alain Uyttenhoven, Head of Lexus Europe said:

"Lexus is proud to sponsor the will.i.am installation at Digital Revolution.

Deep rooted in the Lexus ethos stands design, technology and innovation and we believe that will.i.am's unique installation artistically portrays this, reflecting the Lexus mantra of Amazing in Motion.

As with any sponsorship, a sense of shared values and ambitions are essential. will.i.am's installation is a revolutionary experience which, like Lexus, is progressive and pushes the boundaries of creativity."

Note : Images accompanying this press release can be used only in connection with the Digital Revolution at the Barbican and with the following credit line: © Dave Benett/Getty Images #digitalrevolution

In line with the positioning of the NX and its edgy design, the spot focuses on the urban environment, playing with the model's angular shapes and their projections on Madrid's modern architecture.

Konrad Begg, known for his extensive experience in filming for the automotive industry, directed in the past the commercial for the Lexus IS 300h.

The highly efficient full hybrid NX 300h will be equipped with a 2.5l Atkinson cycle engine. It will deliver class-leading CO₂ emissions from below 120g corresponding to a fuel consumption of below 5.2l. It will be available in Europe from this October.

The NX is the Lexus' first entry into the premium mid-size crossover segment. Its edgy, emotional design intends to appeal to new customers who lead urban and active lifestyles.

The NX offers three powertrain variants, including a highly efficient hybrid powertrain in NX 300h, the first use of an all-new Lexus-developed 2.0-liter petrol turbo engine in NX 200t and a naturally aspirated engine in NX 200, all with the choice of front and all-wheel drive.The NX has an array of innovative on-board technologies, including a Wireless Charging Tray which enables portable devices such as mobile phones to be charged, the first application of a new Lexus Remote Touch Interface with a Touch Pad, Panoramic View Monitor, a comprehensive Multi-information Display (including a Lexus-first G sensor and boost meter), a 6.2'' Head-Up Display, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, along with a host of other features.The F SPORT version provides more aggressive and bolder design with F SPORT exclusive items, such as spindle grille, front lower bumper, aluminium wheel, black outer mirror, unique interior colour, ornament panel and sport seat. It is also equipped with performance dampers.The chief engineer of the NX, Takeaki Kato, said "The NX is a Premium Crossover combining performance, numerous on-board technologies and packaged with alluring design, making it desirable to customers"."Luxury is epitomised by small but important details." Examples of attention to detail in the NX include courtesy lights, exterior metallic flake for the wheel arches, the feel of the switches and other innovations that will set new standards for future Lexus models."Apart from the luxury touches, the NX was designed to complement daily life while also being capable of supporting an active lifestyle on the weekend."Exterior designSubstantially influenced by the LF-NX concept design, the NX has been designed to provide a feeling of agility not usually associated with an SUV while also being suitable for urban use. It embodies an aggressive form in order to make functionality and performance evident at a glance.The front and rear flares are fused to the diamond-shaped body that starts at the spindle grille. It is sculpted to look nimble with incredible power concentrated inside. The bold flared wheel arches housing 17 or 18-inch wheels provide a crouching, muscular stance. Innovative LED headlamps and daytime running lamps firmly express Lexus' bold design language.The side profile is accentuated by a roofline peak set towards the back of the vehicle to provide ample head-room for rear seat occupants and create a tight silhouette.A sculpted outer mirror and a world-first door handle mechanism (with a hidden key barrel and integrated lighting) add to the premium appearance.The rear is punctuated by Lexus' signature 'L' shape combination lamps, each with seamless LED lighting, while the bodywork echoes the spindle grille design at the front.Interior designThe interior of the NX brings a sense of excitement to the cabin atmosphere. The core idea was to combine the structural beauty of a high-performance vehicle with materials and textures that provide premium feeling and functionality.The centre silver frame is strongly embedded into the instrument panel to symbolise the strength of the crossover. Strongly wrapped knee pads on both sides of the centre frame firmly support the driver and passenger. Advanced HMI (Human Machine Interface) technology provides intuitive interaction and creates an advanced impression. The NX continues Lexus' display and operation zone concept.Interior space played a significant role in the cabin design, and seating was a major focus. The NX offers ample overall head room and wide front to rear couple distance. It has also the best luggage load length in its segment.A quilted pattern in the seats and varied pad thickness are used to express the crossover intention of the vehicle.The tough metallic finish of the dynamic centre silver frame and the materials wrapped around it provide contrasting textures.Three powertrains NX 300h The NX adopts a highly sophisticated HV control unit, especially developed for the NX, combined with proven Lexus 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle- engine, generator, motor and battery. The powertrain delivers a total system output of 145kW (197PS) and CO₂ emissions targeted below 120g, corresponding to a fuel consumption below 5.2l.The NX 300h is available with a Front- and All-Wheel Drive system, equipped with one or two electric motors respectively.Special features of the hybrid model include sprung-weight damping control to increase ride comfort and handling stability by reducing pitching on uneven road surfaces.Like every vehicle equipped with the Lexus Hybrid Drive system, the NX 300h will offer customers considerable cost of ownership advantages thanks to a unique combination of low maintenance and running costs, significant tax incentives or benefits in many European countries and high residual values.The Lexus NX 300h will be available for sale in Europe from October 2014.NX 200tThe all-new Lexus 2.0-litre turbo engine is a Lexus-first. It combines excellent fuel economy with enjoyable acceleration and agile driving. It delivers a maximum output of 175kW (238PS) @4,800-5,600rpm with a maximum torque of 350Nm@1,650-4,000rpm. The 2.0-litre turbo engine was tested for more than one million kilometres in various road conditions including harsh environments. It has world-first combination of water-cooled cylinder head integrated exhaust manifold and twin scroll turbo charger.A new 6-speed automatic transmission is adopted to match with the new turbo engine. Thanks to its new torque-demand control logic, the system optimizes the required engine torque at any moment, ensuring quick throttle response and high fuel efficiency.Available with Front- and All-Wheel Drive system, the NX 200t will be on sale in selected European countries as from February 2015.NX 200The Lexus Valvematic system provides high torque through an expanded valve opening angle and VVT operation range in the 2.0-liters naturally aspirated engine.The power plant has a high compression ratio and diagonal fuel injectors, which optimizes fuel mixture to produce strong power through the rev-range. The engine is matched to a newly developed electronically controlled S-CVT/Multi-drive sequential-shift transmission.The NX 200 will be launched in Russia by the end of 2014 with Front- and All-Wheel Drive system.Chassis and suspension The NX has been designed for agile driving, handling stability, turning posture and superior 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 use of Lexus body adhesive, laser-screw welding and high-rigidity glass adhesive.Selected NX models have newly developed dampers and Lexus' new-generation linear-solenoid type Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS). Linked to the Drive Mode Select, it is able to change the level of damping force, enhance ride comfort ensuring peace of mind due to reduced roll.SafetyThe NX comes with a comprehensive active package including a Panoramic View Monitor featuring the highest resolution camera to be offered on a Lexus vehicle. In a segment first, the NX also introduces All-speed Adaptive Cruise Control, capable of bringing the NX to a complete stop when the preceding vehicle stands still. Other active safety systems include Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, newly adopted cornering lamps and Head-Up Display.Dimensions

Biography of Mr. Takeaki Kato Chief Engineer of Lexus NX Lexus Product Planning, LEXUS INTERNATIONALTakeaki Kato joined Toyota in 1986. After focusing mainly on instrument panel design for about eight years, he was stationed at Toyota Technical Center USA between 1994 and 1997.After returning to Japan and being involved in the development of instrument panels and seats, Mr. Kato joined departments engaged in the advanced development of restraint devices. There, he pioneered the development of new technologies and products such as knee airbags, pre-cash seatbelts, and twin-chamber airbags.Mr. Kato joined the Product Planning division in 2005. He has been responsible for IS and RX before becoming Chief Engineer for the NX.

Mr. Kato has owned a whole range of vehicles. Additionally, at home he even owns a training cockpit for PlayStation driving simulation games, which gives an indication of how much he loves cars.

• Sharply styled for urban and active lifestyles

• Highly efficient 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine

• Lexus' first use of new 2.0-litre petrol turbo engine

• Three engines, three transmissions, front and all-wheel drive

• Safety innovations include Panoramic View Monitor

Lexus has launched its all-new, sharply styled premium mid-size crossover at the 2014 Beijing Motor Show.

The NX is the Lexus' first entry into the premium mid-size crossover segment. Its edgy, emotional design intends to appeal to new customers who lead urban and active lifestyles.

The NX offers three powertrain variants, including a highly efficient hybrid in NX 300h, the first use of an all-new Lexus-developed 2.0-liter petrol turbo in NX 200t and a naturally aspirated engine in NX 200, with the choice of front and all-wheel drive. In addition, Lexus' Stop and Start system is available to provide fuel savings and quick restart response.

The NX has an array of innovative on-board technology, including a Lexus-first Wireless Charging Tray which enables portable devices such as mobile phones to be charged, the first application of a new Lexus Remote Touch Interface with a touch pad, Panoramic View Monitor, a comprehensive Multi-information Display (including a Lexus-first G sensor and boost meter), Head-Up Display, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, along with a host of other features.

An optional F SPORT version provides more aggressive and sportier design with F SPORT exclusive items, such as spindle grille, front lower bumper, aluminium wheel, black outer mirror, interior colour, ornament panel and sport seat for sporty drive.

The chief engineer of the NX, Takeaki Kato, said "The NX is a Premium Crossover combining performance, numerous on-board technologies and packaged with alluring design, making it desirable to customers".

"Much like high quality sports watches, bikes and fashion articles, the NX represents the ultimate in premium urban sports gear," he said.

"Luxury is epitomised by small but important details." Examples of attention to detail in the NX include courtesy lights, exterior metallic flake for the wheel arches, the feel of the switches and other innovations that will set new standards for future Lexus models.

"Apart from the luxury touches, the NX was designed to complement daily life while also being capable of supporting an active lifestyle on the weekend."

Exterior design

Substantially influenced by the LF-NX concept design, the NX has been designed to provide a feeling of agility not usually associated with an SUV while also being suitable for urban use. It embodies an aggressive form in order to make functionality and performance evident at a glance.

The front and rear flares are fused to the diamond-shaped body that starts at the spindle grille. It is sculpted to look nimble with incredible power concentrated inside. The bold flared wheel arches housing 17 or 18-inch wheels provide a crouching, muscular stance. Innovative LED headlamps and daytime running lamps firmly express Lexus' bold design language.

The side profile is accentuated by a roofline peak set towards the back of the vehicle to provide ample head-room for rear seat occupants and create a tight silhouette.

A sculpted outer mirror and a world-first door handle mechanism (with a hidden key barrel and integrated lighting) add to the premium appearance.

The rear is punctuated by Lexus' signature 'L' shape combination lamps, each with seamless LED lighting, while the bodywork echoes the spindle grille design at the front.

Interior design

The interior of the NX brings a sense of excitement to the cabin atmosphere that directly evokes. The core idea was to combine the structural beauty of a high-performance vehicle with materials and textures that provide premium feeling and functionality.

The centre silver frame is strongly embedded into the instrument panel to symbolise the strength of the crossover SUV. Strongly wrapped knee pads on both sides of the center frame firmly support the driver and passenger. Advanced HMI (Human Machine Interface) technology provides intuitive interaction and creates an advanced impression. The NX continues Lexus' display and operation zone concept.

Interior space played a significant role in the cabin design, and seating was a major focus. The NX offers ample overall head room and wide front to rear couple distance. It has also the best luggage load length in its segment.

A quilted pattern in the seats and varied pad thickness are used to express the crossover intention of the vehicle.

The tough metallic finish of the dynamic centre silver frame and the materials wrapped around it provide contrasting textures.

Three powertrains 

NX 300h 

The NX adopts highly sophisticated HV control especially developed for the NX, with proven Lexus 2.5-liters Atkinson cycle- engine, generator, motor and battery. It delivers a total system output of 145kW. Special features of the hybrid model include sprung-weight damping control to increase ride comfort and handling stability by reducing pitching on uneven road surfaces.

NX 200t

The all-new Lexus 2.0-litre turbo engine is a Lexus-first. It combines excellent fuel economy with enjoyable acceleration and agile driving. It is matched to a 6 speed automatic transmission specially tuned for the NX. It delivers a maximum output of 175kW@4,800-5,600rpm with a maximum torque of 350Nm@1,650-4,000rpm. The 2.0-litre turbo engine was tested for more than one million kilometres in various road conditions including harsh environments. The new turbo engine has world-first combination of water-cooled cylinder head integrated exhaust manifold and twin scroll turbo charger.

A new 6-speed automatic transmission is adopted to match with the new turbo engine. The new 6-speed automatic transmission features new torque-demand control logic. It calculates required engine torque and maximizes it, delivering quick response to acceleration and high fuel efficiency.

NX 200

The Lexus Valvematic system provides high torque through an expanded valve opening angle and VVT operation range in the 2.0-liters naturally aspirated engine.

The power plant has a high compression ratio and diagonal fuel injectors, which optimizes fuel mixture to produce strong power through the rev-range. The engine is matched to a newly developed electronically controlled S-CVT/Multi-drive sequential-shift transmission.

Chassis and suspension 

The NX 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 use of Lexus body adhesive, laser-screw welding and high-rigidity glass adhesive.

Selected NX models have newly developed dampers and Lexus' new-generation linear-solenoid type Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS). Linked to the Drive Mode Select, it is able to change the level of damping force, enhance ride comfort ensuring peace of mind due to reduced roll.

Safety

A comprehensive active package includes full-range Panoramic View Monitor, All-speed Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, newly adopted cornering lamps and Head-Up Display.

The Lexus-first Panoramic View Monitor is the highest resolution camera to be offered on a Lexus vehicle. In a segment first, the NX introduces All-speed Adaptive Cruise Control, capable of following the preceding vehicle and bring the NX to a complete stop.

On sale

The Lexus NX series will be available for sale in world markets in the second half of 2014.

The specification of NX will differ according to the country in which it is sold.

Lexus has released first photographs of its all-new, sharply styled mid-size premium crossover to be launched on April 20 at the 2014 Beijing International Auto Show.

The NX, Lexus first entry into the mid-size SUV market, has been conceived as an edgy, emotional design to appeal to new customers. With its striking design and high-end technologies, the hero model will set new standards for future models.

Two LF-NX concept vehicles ( LF stands for Lexus Future) introduced at the 2013 Frankfurt and Tokyo Motor Shows received acclaim and substantially influenced the final design of the production NX .

Exterior design

The NX has been designed to appear as though it was cast from one piece of metal, with bold flared wheel arches housing 17 or 18-inch wheels to provide a crouching, muscular stance. The angular shape uses aggressive Lexus' signature spindle grille as its centre piece reinforced by innovative LED headlamps and daylight running lamps. The spindle grille blends seamlessly into a sculpted bonnet, creating a strongly contrasting surface expression with a sense of depth.

The side profile is instantly recognizable as a Lexus, accentuated by a roofline set towards the back of the vehicle for maximum visual effect. An innovative outer mirror and a world first door handle mechanism with a hidden key barrel and integrated lighting add to the premium appearance by creating a smooth finish along the side of the vehicle.

The rear is punctuated by Lexus' signature 'L' shape combination lamps, each with seamless LED lighting. The bodywork echoes the spindle grille design at the front.

Interior design

The interior of Lexus NX brings a sense of excitement; with a design more like that of a sports car. With a highly sculpted dash panel, the NX interior complements the angular styling of the exterior.

A thick-rimmed sports steering wheel conveys the dynamic capabilities of the NX, and contrasting interior trims add to the attractive design of the cabin.

Interior space and seating played a significant role in cabin design.

Intuitive interaction with the vehicle's controls, instrumentation and Human Machine Interface (HMI) technology is at the heart of the interior design. The NX continues Lexus' display and operation zone concept.

Technology

The Lexus NX introduces a highly efficient petrol-electric hybrid in NX 300h, a Lexus first 2.0-litre petrol turbo in NX 200t, and a naturally aspirated variant of the same engine in NX 200. Each will offer the choice of front and all-wheel drive system. .

The NX has an array of innovative on-board technology, including a Lexus-first Wireless Charging Tray to enable a portable device to be charged, the first application of a new Lexus Remote Touch Interface with a touch pad, Panoramic View Monitor and a comprehensive Multi-information Display including a Lexus-first G sensor and boost meter, Head-Up Display, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Chief engineer of the NX, Takeaki Kato, said the NX was developed as a vehicle that suits an active urban lifestyle. Throughout all development phases we were determined to approach it from the target customers', the premium young, urban driver's perspective.

*The specifications of NX will differ according to the country in which it is sold.

In addition, the new Lexus RC F performance coupe will make its China debut during the show, allowing visitors to experience Lexus' new coupe.

The Lexus press conference is scheduled on April 20th in the W3 Hall at the China International Exhibition Center.

This vehicle will mark Lexus' entrance into the growing segment of premium mid-size crossovers. It will be positioned below the RX in the Lexus product range.

The world premiere will take place on April 20 during the Lexus press conference at the 2014 Beijing Motor Show.