LEXUS LX & NX

Last month, Lexus treated us to not one, but two new models – the uber-luxurious LX SUV, and its smaller yet still impressive NX stablemate.

Regarding Japanese luxury cars, Lexus is the leading brand and easily holds its own against any of its German rivals. In addition, Lexus is also at the forefront of technology and craftsmanship, as the all-new LX super SUV and compact NX once again prove.

LEXUS LX

We love large SUVs, and the Toyota LC 300’s legendary 4×4 ability, new engines, and loads of technology make it one of the best. But, if you value VIP luxury and top-quality driving enjoyment, Lexus’ more refined version, the LX, is the one to consider.

For the fourth-generation LX, Lexus’ top SUV has shed 200 kg and added unparalleled refinement, thanks to a rugged new platform, a slew of human-centric technology, and two twin-turbo petrol and diesel engines, serving in one of five different models.

At the launch in Franschhoek, we sampled the LX 600 F-Sport, which draws its power from a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine (rather than the previous 5.7-litre V8) and boasts 305 kW and 650 Nm of torque. Throughout the range, the LX channels its significant power via a 10-speed automatic transmission that lets the 3.2-tonne behemoth accelerate nimbly while sipping anywhere between 11.3 (official) and 12.5 l/100 km of fuel.

Over about 200 km of tarmac and dirt roads, the large Lexus behaved beautifully despite its massive 22” alloy wheels (the largest of any Lexus), which we fully expected to offer a bumpier ride than it did during launch (especially on dirt roads), but the LX 600’s adaptive-air suspension system kept things smooth in most circumstances. 

Inside the cabin, there is futuristic technology throughout. Two touchscreens control most functions and, for the first time, include fingerprint technology to prevent theft. Although this is first-of-its-kind tech, it still requires you to have the key on hand under certain circumstances. The cabin is further enhanced with a fantastic 25-speaker Mark Levinson sound system.

Up to five passengers will enjoy exemplary comfort in LX F-Sport versions and seven in standard models. Lexus has also introduced a new range-topping VIP model LX 600 (not available to test during the launch), which boasts a unique interior with only two rear seats that can recline up to 48 degrees and several extra techno tricks that, of course, significantly increase its price.

LEXUS NX

Two models below the LX on the Lexus range spectrum, the NX is a compact SUV that has been one of the brand’s most important models since its launch in early 2022 and has now been refreshed with 95% new components, a new face, and a roster of new technology.

While the NX is, technically, not a brand-new car, it looks and drives like new. 

Under the hood, buyers can choose one of three new engines, all petrol-powered. At launch, we sampled the NX 350h SE’s hybrid 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine offering 179 kW and 239 Nm. With two electric motors, a new lithium-ion battery, and Lexus’ E-CVT transmission onboard, the NX officially accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds. That’s great for a segment that includes rivals such as the BMW X3 sDrive20i.

Lexus’ all-wheel drive is now standard on all models. This intelligent system allows for better power delivery to the rear wheels, significantly improving the NX’s driving feel. Or so we discovered on the Franschhoek pass, where the NX’s new suspension system and 20 mm lower centre of gravity aided in keeping things neatly in check during fast cornering.

Inside, typical Lexus quality is evident in the materials and finish. There’s also a crisp high-definition 14” touchscreen and 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system that simply sounds great! A slightly unnecessary addition is the new electronic door handles that operate via a push-button system inside the car.

Safety systems include intersection turn assist and emergency steering assist, plus a pre-collision system that spots pedestrians and cyclists, parking support braking with obstacle and vehicle tracking, blind spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist.

The NX is Lexus’ answer to the growing luxury C-segment SUV market, and few others offer as much standard equipment and excellent ride quality as the NX. In our opinion, it deserves significantly more attention than it currently enjoys in our market.

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