Bravo, Nobuyuki Tomatsu! The body of the chief designer of the Lexus NX crossover was successful: clever folds of the stampings, clear edges, sharp corners... The co-platform Toyota RAV4 is unrecognizable in every detail! The front overhang is longer, the fenders are more prominent. And now it seems that the cabin is pulled back, and the A-pillars are piled up more.
How else does the Lexus NX differ from the RAV4, besides design, and how do all versions drive?
That's cruel!
But the interior inspires premium peace of mind. The seating position is comfortable, the softest leather is literally everywhere: from the seats and steering wheel rim to the door panels and the wrist rest on the center tunnel. Elastic keys, excellent plastic, excellent visibility with thin pillars and large mirrors... The spacious second row is courteously raised: you sit and see what is happening in front.
Very high quality and stylish interior. For the front-wheel drive version of the NX 200, the choice of colors is small, but for the rest - much wider
But as soon as the top hybrid version of the NX 300h starts moving, it... It shakes! We have already noted this unpleasant feature in our comparative test(AR No. 2, 2015). And now in Greece I took a hybrid with the F Sport package, which, in addition to the original external body kit and interior decorations, is equipped adaptive shock absorbers(they are not available for RAV4, by the way). Comfort mode, you say? I would call it Hard: on caved-in sewer manholes in the Greek city of Thessaloniki, the wheels rumble as if they were 22 inches in diameter instead of 18!
This seat is a feature of the F Sport package: lateral support is slightly better than that of a regular seat, and the bolsters along the edges of the cushion are hard and not widely spaced
My partner Yaroslav, who runs the Russian Lexus Club and... owns a hybrid N-X, also shakes his head with displeasure. He says that this is generally the toughest Lexus in his memory.
This is how the NX and RAV4 differ “in terms of bodywork” - mainly in additionally reinforced seams. Lexus also has an aluminum hood.
Moreover, it is most pleasant to accelerate the NX 300h in Sport mode: this way it ceases to be phlegmatic and reacts quickly to the gas. But the smoothness of the ride in “sport” is no longer hard, but a real die hard.
Maybe the NX 200t will be softer?
Under the hood is the first supercharged engine for Lexus: a two-liter 8AR-FTS four with a twin-scroll turbocharger, combined injection fuel and valve mechanism, which at partial loads switches the motor to operate according to the economical Atkinson cycle. Almost 240 forces and a wide torque shelf of 350 Nm - this “two hundredth” drives very dynamically, and the character of the new engine is smooth, without pick-ups. Matching it is the six-speed automatic transmission - the same as on the RAV4, only upgraded for more torque. It shifts quickly and logically, but the torque converter does not lock up as often as we would like - the connection to the accelerator is not ideal.
The suspension kinematics have not changed compared to the RAV4, but most of the parts are new. By the way, the picture shows the NX 200t: this can be determined by the intercooler radiator with liquid cooled(shown by arrow)
Suspension? Better! But... Only slightly. And the general scenario is bad road the same: Lexus notices too many bumps, and has to go around them - out of pity for itself, and not for the car. But if there is smooth asphalt under the wheels, the N-X does not roll - it flies! This is especially nice in long trip: in a straight line the Lexus goes like it’s on rails, and all I have to do is hold the steering wheel by the clear “toe.”
And on the winding descent from the Greek Olympus, I don’t mind grabbing the plump rim tighter. In turns, the NX 200t behaves quite well: it’s not a BMW X3, of course, but it’s not a RAV4 either. Even though the steering force is a little artificial, I like the precise and quick responses and the minimum of roll. And if there was a sharper turn, the front end of the Lexus would smoothly slide out.
The neat instruments of the NX 200 and NX 200t versions are easy to read. By the way, the tachometer here is real, not virtual, like a hybrid
All-round viewing system with four cameras and trajectory guidance is a privilege of the most expensive configuration
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Is not boring!
This character was instilled in the “en-iksu” intentionally. Engineers say that only some floor panels remain from the RAV4, but in general the power structure of the steel body is different: stiffer and lighter, and there are a pair of aluminum cross members. The geometry of the suspensions, of course, is preserved, wheelbase has not changed, but both subframes are strengthened, the stabilizers are thicker, and most of the parts, including rubber bands, springs and shock absorbers, are unique. Didn't pass by steering: the rack fastening is stiffer, and the electric amplifier is improved.
A special feature of the F Sport version is special extensions with an additional central shock absorber: one is installed between the front strut supports, and the second is in the rear of the body. They are supplied by Yamaha and are designed to reduce body vibrations. There are similar extensions on the RX crossover in the F Sport package.
It's a shame that, having done such a huge job, the engineers forgot about... sound insulation. The main problem is tire noise. On the Lexus Club forum, a whole thread is devoted to this topic: some go to specialized studios, completely dismantle the interior and install additional noise.
The NX 200t, like the hybrid, comes to us only with all-wheel drive— with an inter-axle coupling in the rear housing final drive. Although in the US, both of these versions can be front-wheel drive. And for the supercharged “200th” you will have to pay at least two and a half million rubles.
This is how the NX 300h works: just like the others hybrid Toyota, internal combustion engine, generator and electric motor using planetary gear form a continuously variable electromechanical transmission that drives the front wheels. In the all-wheel drive version, another electric motor (68 hp) is installed on rear axle, which has no mechanical connection with the front one. Under rear seats there are two blocks of nickel-metal hydride batteries weighing 20 kg each
Therefore, especially for Russia (as well as for China), they made a more affordable NX 200: with a naturally-aspirated two-liter engine producing 150 hp. and a variator. Do you think this combination is entirely taken from the RAV4? Yes, but not from Russian, but from European. This means that instead of the -3ZR-FE- engine there is a 3ZR-FAE engine with a Valvematic system that changes the stroke intake valves, — it is a little more powerful and high-torque. You can choose from front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and the price starts from two million.
The Lexus NX 200t and NX 300h can be ordered in the F Sport version: with different bumpers, a huge mesh grille, specially designed wheels and black rearview mirrors
True, the NX 200 drives without any complaints, the engine hums monotonously during intense acceleration. But for calm movement around the city it’s quite enough, and besides, it’s convenient to control the traction. It's a shame that this version still seems harsh.
The low beam is LED, the high beam is halogen (left), and expensive trim levels- fully LED headlights(on right)
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In the States, the Lexus NX did well: in the first three months of this year, over nine thousand cars were sold there - for example, the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLK They differ worse, but the Acura RDX and Audi Q5 are more successful. In Russia, serious hopes are placed on the NX and they hope to use it to ensure almost half of all sales of the brand.
Improve the sound insulation and improve the smoothness of the ride - and... Why not?
| Passport details | ||||
| Automobile | Lexus NX 200 | Lexus NX 200t | Lexus NX 300h | |
| Body type | five-door station wagon | five-door station wagon | five-door station wagon | |
| Number of places | 5 | 5 | 5 | |
| Dimensions, mm | length | 4630 | 4630 | 4630 |
| width | 1845 | 1845 | 1845 | |
| height | 1645 | 1645 | 1645 | |
| wheelbase | 2660 | 2660 | 2660 | |
| front/rear track | 1580/1580 | 1580/1580 | 1580/1580 | |
| 185 | 190 | 185 | ||
| Trunk volume, l | 500—1545* | 500—1545* | 475—1520* | |
| Curb weight, kg | 1680—1735** (1630—1685)*** | 1735—1845** | 1785—1905** | |
| Total weight, kg | 2225 (2175) | 2335 | 2395 | |
| Engine | petrol, with distributed injection |
petrol, with combined injection and turbocharging | petrol, with distributed injection |
|
| Number and arrangement of cylinders | 4, in a row | 4, in a row | 4, in a row | |
| Working volume, cm3 | 1986 | 1998 | 2494 | |
| Compression ratio | 10,5:1 | 10,1:1 | 12,5:1 | |
| Number of valves | 16 | 16 | 16 | |
| Max. power, hp/kW/rpm | 150/110/6100 | 238/175/4800—5600 | 155/114/5700 | |
| Max. torque, Nm/rpm | 193/3800 | 350/1650—4000 | 210/4200—4400 | |
| Front traction motor | — | — | AC, synchronous | |
| Max. power, hp/kW | — | — | 143/105 | |
| Max. torque, Nm | — | — | 270 | |
| Rear traction motor | — | — | AC, synchronous | |
| Max. power, hp/kW | — | — | 68/50 | |
| Max. torque, Nm | — | — | 139 | |
| Total power power plant, hp/kW | — | — | 197/145 | |
| Transmission | V-belt variable speed drive |
automatic, 6-speed | electromechanical variator | |
| Drive unit | full, with multi-plate clutch in the drive rear wheels(front) | full, with multi-plate clutch in the rear wheel drive | full, with an electric motor on the rear axle | |
| Steering | rack and pinion, with electric booster | rack and pinion, with electric booster | rack and pinion, with electric booster | |
| Front suspension | independent, spring, McPherson | independent, spring, McPherson | ||
| Rear suspension | independent, spring, multi-link | independent, spring, multi-link | ||
| Front brakes | disc, ventilated | disc, ventilated | disc, ventilated | |
| Rear brakes | disk | disk | disk | |
| Tires | 225/65 R17 or 225/60 R18 | 225/60 R18 (235/55 R18)**** | 225/60 R18 (235/55 R18)**** | |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 180 | 200 | 180 | |
| Acceleration time 0—100 km/h, s | n.d.***** | 7,2 | 9,3 | |
| Fuel consumption, l/100 km | mixed cycle | 7,5 (7,2) | 8,8 | 5,4 |
| CO 2 emissions, g/km | 172—176** (165—169**) | 194—199** | 119—124** | |
| Capacity fuel tank, l | 60 | 60 | 56 | |
| Fuel | gasoline AI-95 | gasoline AI-95 | gasoline AI-95 | |
|
* With rear seats folded down |
||||
Crossovers from Lexus have already become a real symbol High Quality, elegance in every detail. These cars attract attention, they delight with their equipment and trouble-free service life. Enough for a long time most popular model The manufacturer was the famous “Rex”, in the original RX. However, today, with the release of new products, the choice for the buyer has become much wider. Increasingly, buyers prefer the NX series, although both cars have their own clear advantages and obvious shortcomings.
Power and maneuverability
The model still remains preferable in terms of engine power and cross-country ability. The newcomer NX has less impressive technical characteristics, the manufacturer has also significantly reduced the set possible modifications. If in the business class to which RX belongs there were two gasoline engines for 2 and 3.5 liters, as well as one hybrid with a capacity of three and a half liters, then new model It is offered only in versions with a 2-liter petrol engine and a 2.5-liter hybrid engine. RX has power from 155 to 313 Horse power, which turned out to be an unattainable value for a new product; the maximum for this option is 238 horsepower. And this difference is clearly felt: slower acceleration, significantly lower torque and throttle response of the engine do not allow us to fully appreciate the capabilities of this unit.
With cross-country ability, everything is not so clear. By overall dimensions the cars are practically no different from each other, ground clearance 190 mm for the NX versus 200 mm for the RX does not provide a significant advantage on the road, since the new model has significantly improved geometry, which affects the angle of overcoming road obstacles. In addition, NX in terms of adaptability to Russian roads significantly outperformed its more expensive competitor.
Price and quality
Even though the NX has a smaller wheelbase, the cabin is still spacious and trunk capacity remains impressive. At the same time, small dimensions are among the advantages of this crossover, which has now become excellent option for the city. Besides, this model outperformed the expensive RX in the following characteristics:
- smooth ride;
- softness of the suspension;
- ergonomics.
The new product has a very unusual design, which was compared to a “starship” at the first auto exhibitions. Unusual front console, modified dashboard, an expanded viewing angle and modified optics made it possible to transform the interior and exterior, making them more modern.
RX also holds its own, having the advantage of the following characteristics:
- availability of equipment with an 8-speed gearbox;
- precise handling and excellent directional stability;
- active and passive safety.
That's why final choice remains up to the buyer to determine the clear leader according to technical parameters It's simply impossible. The NX model is often called more dynamic and youthful, more economical and environmentally friendly. While the classic RX remains one of best representatives business class in the crossover segment. It is dynamic, powerful, stylish, its recognizable design has become the real face of the entire brand today. At the same time, the difference in cost will not be too great if we consider improved configurations more budget version NX.
➖ Dynamics (version with 2.0 engine at 150 hp)
➖ Lack of niches and fastenings in the trunk
➖ Noise insulation
pros
➕ Reliability
➕ Comfortable salon
➕ Suspension
➕ Design
The advantages and disadvantages of the Lexus HX 2018-2019 in a new body were identified based on reviews real owners. More detailed pros and cons of the Lexus NX 200t, NX 300 and hybrid with front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive can be found in the stories below:
Owner reviews
I am pleased. During the entire period of operation there was not a single breakdown, only scheduled maintenance. Exterior design I like it madly, Lexus NX is like from the future. The inside is not bad either, but it doesn’t cause wild delight.
Consumption is now 11.5 liters per 100 km - this is in the urban cycle. In summer he eats 9 liters. Those who write that it doesn’t drive simply don’t know how to drive; in sport mode everything changes dramatically. For the city better than a car you can't imagine.
Ksenia drives a Lexus NX 2.0 (150 hp) AT 2015.
Video review
This is the feeling now, after several months of owning the car. It’s very difficult to get used to left-hand drive when you’ve driven right-hand drive all your life. Visibility is not very good due to the left windshield pillar.
Consumption new Lexus The NX 200t in the city and on the highway is not 8 liters, as it is written on the website, but rather 11 and 14 liters, respectively. But it doesn't bother me. It’s not entirely clear how to set up radio stations and voice control - you already have to sit down and read the instructions.
The headlight control is also somewhat tricky. But overall, it’s a nimble, dynamic car that attracts attention on the streets. Among the conveniences, I especially want to note the operation of the radio via Bluetooth - it is convenient to listen to music from your phone, as well as from a flash drive (there is a USB connector).
And of course, the build quality, the excellent external styling of the car, the thoughtfulness and finishing of the interior, all the details are adjusted and made with some kind of sophistication or something. Later they compared a simple two liters - this is a completely different car, uninteresting, and the hybrid, although more powerful and softer because it is heavier, does not drive as powerfully as the same Harrier... I think the HX 200t is an ideal option and this is the car that It will delight you and won’t get boring for a long time.
The owner drives a Lexus NX 200t 2.0 (238 hp) CVT 2014
The suspension is assembled. Eats moderately: highway 8.1, city 9.5. The variator does not raise any questions yet. In ECO mode it really saves gas. But the Shumka from the factory is very average. I turned on the noise and the car really became quieter.
Andrey Tarasov, drives a Lexus HX 2.0 (150 hp) automatic, 2015.
The suspension on the Lexus NX is a little harsh, but at speed I think this is a plus. High ground clearance, which is the most important thing for me, used to constantly hit the curb near the house. In general, I'll give it a five - it's a good car.
The owner drives a Lexus NX 2.0 CVT 2014
Reliability. Which, of course, is still debatable at such and such an “age” and with such and such mileage. Operation in Moscow and the region, which also does not add to the road extreme.
Design. HX undoubtedly attracts attention in the stream. As is known for taste and color. I like.
Comfort. This cannot be taken away. Driver's seat quite ergonomic. Everything is at hand. There are a few poorly placed buttons, fortunately they are not used often. The seat is quite comfortable, despite the fact that my configuration does not include electric drives or, indeed, lumbar support/adjustments at all. In any configuration there is no possibility of adjusting the length of the seat. Being 178 cm tall, it’s not enough for me, but... the Japanese don’t indulge in this option at all. There is lateral support, but it is only slightly marked.
The main disappointment is the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine. It is noisy, gluttonous and there is very little of it... for 1800 kg. I hope he is very reliable! But how dull it is... No matter what the owners write about the Sport mode, it doesn’t save the situation either. For the 2.0 engine 150 hp Lexus has a big, fat Minus!!! Consumption in the city with the climate control on is 10.5 - 12.0 liters.
The concept of the salon is nothing superfluous. Everything is in the trunk. Let everything roll around in the trunk. After all, everything is smooth in it too. No niches, no nets, no pockets. Those that exist are also mostly decorative.
Review of Lexus NX 200 with automatic 2016
— The handling is excellent, precise, the steering wheel is light.
— The design is very impressive, aggression mixed with something cosmic.
— Comfort at the highest level.
— Maintenance and repairs are a little expensive, but they are of high quality from dealers.
— Security at the highest level.
— Good wheelbase.
— The seats are comfortable, your back doesn’t get tired.Of the shortcomings. It takes a long time to get used to starting a car without a key. There is a complex system where you first press the button 3 times, wait for the “Peep” signal, and then press it 2 more times and wait for the long “Peep” signal, and only then press the engine start button and the car starts.” This is not a big minus, you can get used to it.
Review of Lexus HX 200 (150 hp) with automatic transmission 2016
Let's talk about overtaking cars on the highway. So, while the Sorento hums and accelerates, you can catch someone head-on, which cannot be said about Lexus. You turn on the sport mode and start overtaking literally everyone, even Kruzaks, but since there are a lot of potholes on our country roads, it’s better not to go too far ahead.
The interior is great, it's a pity white interior, getting dirty from any thing, constantly needing care, but that’s not the point for me. I'm not happy with the monitor, it doesn't read DVDs. I think that in such a car for that kind of money everything should already be included! The radio and menu are easy to operate; they replaced the finger controls with a convenient wheel. Visibility is excellent, the pillars are thin.
Review of Lexus NX 200t (238 hp) automatic 2017
"Rex" doesn't need any special introduction. Today, almost a third of Lexuses sold in the world are RX. The current model will celebrate 6 years this year. It may seem conservative, but its expensive, laconic appearance and tastefully selected finishing materials cannot be taken away from it. Even the most modest 2.7 liter engine turns out to be quite combative, and with the 3.5V6 Lexus completely turns into a genie, generously satisfying driver’s ambitions.
True, the services of such a wizard are now especially expensive - 2,858,500 rubles. The RX270 remains a way to save money and not regret what you have done at first glance. The Prestige version of the car is sold for 2,122,000. In general, in terms of equipment, it can give odds to other thoroughbred “Europeans”. With one exception - the car is fabric seats. Many premium buyers, of course, do not agree with the restrictions.
For elimination lack of Lexus asks for as much as 274,000 rubles. As justification, offering along with the skin a dozen more sybaritic options. In any case, the RX270 will have front-wheel drive. It’s good for storming curbs and asphalt slopes, but don’t count on more. It turns out a car full of compromises for 2.4 million. Until recently, fans Lexus crossovers I had to agree to this.
With the debut of the NX SUV, the choice has become wider. The price for a beginner starts at RUB 1,772,000. And before you look at the price list, the machine itself will probably grab your attention. The X-Face style (in the case of Lexus hourglass or spindle) is now at the peak of its glory. It's surprising that the creators of Nex developed this idea in almost every detail. It turned out loud, in places, perhaps, divorced from earthly reality, but if you like the design of a kind of starship, a magnet for attention, this is your choice.
In technology, as usual, much is more prosaic. Basic option The NX200 uses the front-wheel drive basis of the RAV4 with its own 2-liter engine and CVT. AWD will force you to part with 1,916,000 rubles. And the desire to get genuine leather and the most comfortable electrified seats will bring you to the mark of 2,255,000 rubles. Dear, but worthy of attention an option for those who agree with the leisurely nature of the car.
We recommend that you buy a technically much more interesting version for about the same money. This is the NX200t AWD Executive for RUB 2,317,000, which is fraught with newest motor with turbocharging and a full-fledged “automatic”. Taking into account the dynamics, equipment and prestige of the brand, this price tag turned out to be quite competitive today. Compared to its older brother, the NX not only drives faster, but turns every acceleration into a celebration.
If you like the quiet style of Leхus, hurry up. Judging by the appearance of the new Rex, which debuted in April, the Japanese will extend the design a la starship to it. For now, the RX 2WD remains a worthy choice those who need a quiet urban crossover with the most generous level of equipment and comfort. Compared to this, the NX200t AWD is a young rebel rake both in appearance and in character. True, despite quite spacious salon and capacious hold, role the only car It’s better not to offer it to him in the family.
It would seem that two are completely identical cars, apart from differences in engines, however, no. The naturally aspirated car does not have the letter “t” on the nameplate, and the only muffler pipe is modestly hidden under the body kit. In principle, nothing prevents the owner from sticking the missing letter on back door, and simulating a bifurcated exhaust is not necessary, no one will check. The main advantage of the “turbo” NX is all-round view using four video cameras, working even with folded mirrors and at speeds of up to 20 km/h.
In city traffic jams there is not much difference between a turbocharged or non-turbocharged engine under your hood. A 2.0-liter with a maximum of 150 hp is enough. – this is if we talk about crossovers. And what if you're the last one driving? Lexus models NX, then they will admire it in any case.
True, through transparent roof The Lexus NX 200t is great for stargazing, and in addition to heated front seats, it also has built-in ventilation. The “aspirated” model also lacks front and side cameras, but any madam, having parked “by sound” a couple of times for the amount of three zeros, will quickly learn to feel the dimensions of the car. The only thing that is impossible to learn in any Lexus NX is to use the Remote touch system with a touchpad on the central tunnel: no matter how hard you try, you will still miss the desired position on the screen. Previously, Lexuses had the most convenient joystick in the form of a computer mouse, but the rich Japanese manufacturers their own quirks - they thought that a “lipstick box” with a mirror built into the lid in its place looked cooler.
Looking at the control lever automatic transmission, you won’t learn anything about its type, but if you look closely at the modest inscription in the niche of the center console, you will notice that the NX 200t will delight you on the road with premium sound from Mark Levinson. And on the contrary, the button of the “start/stop” system, which turns off the engine at traffic lights, will not be an eyesore - instead, the “turbo” NX has a plug. Excellent leather, expensive plastic, two-tone interior - this is what your admiring fellow travelers will notice first of all, and until you let one of them behind the wheel, the rest does not matter.
The main difference is the technique
When comparing two versions of one car, it is better to take the most sophisticated one first - then it will be easier to assess what you are depriving yourself of budget option and are you ready to part with it for the sake of banal savings? Now, when the price for an atmospheric all-wheel drive NX 200 starts from two million rubles, and a “turbo” one costs at least 228,000 rubles, this is important.For two liters under the hood of the Lexus NX 200t there is 350 Nm of thrust from 238 horses, which do their job perfectly - pressing the gas to the floor, you do not wait for the turbine to start working. Powerful linear acceleration without pronounced turbo boost is just what the fast-moving average person needs to once again don’t “bother yourself” by “playing checkers” on the way home. Japanese engineers have already “confused” about it: a twin-scroll water-cooled turbocharger is practically built into the cylinder head, the intercooler is mounted on the engine in such a way as to shorten the air path to the cylinders as much as possible - the Japanese have done everything so that you do not feel turbo lag.
Paired with the first one Lexus history The turbo engine is powered by a six-speed automatic transmission, tuned for maximum nobility. In any mode, it does not “shudder” when switching, but only gently hints that it has changed gear. If you want to get completely smooth behavior, you need to switch to sport mode, however, the difference between it and Normal is not so great that you constantly want to do this.
Acceleration in 7.2 seconds to 100 km/h requires just such a rigid chassis as the NX 200t has. However, all NX variations are designed for handling, it’s just that in combination with a turbine you understand why you are putting up with this harshness. The suspension collects all the little things on the asphalt, and it’s better to brake in front of a speed bump, but the NX does not roll when turning and clearly follows the steering wheel.
Feel the difference
A few hundred kilometers on the NX 200t and we switch to the naturally aspirated version. First impressions: imagine that they sold you a lifted SUV with a powerful power body kit and... one drive axle, and you don’t even have a winch. You, of course, will be able to spectacularly drive it to the office, but the envy of colleagues who know nothing about technology will not warm every soul, and you can’t count on more. It’s the same story with the naturally aspirated NX - after the NX 200t it “doesn’t work”! Its two liters produce only 150 liters. s., and it differs from any other Japanese “two-liter” only in the same suspension tuned for handling, which does not like bad asphalt.Fortunately, there is also a sports mode here, and once you turn the adjuster puck, you will forever forget about the existence of its other positions. The variator in the transmission is another problem with the naturally aspirated engine. It “freezes” on high speed under intense acceleration, until you decide to slightly release the gas pedal, allowing this poor honest worker to jump to a higher virtual level.
The whine of the CVT makes the regular NX 200 seem too loud for a car of this class, because you're sitting in a premium cabin. It feels like even in wheel arches put less soundproofing materials than in the turbo version - specifically in order to wean you from saving.
