Lexus NX 350h F-sport

Buying a new car in India is a big decision, isn't it? You're probably thinking about a lot of things: how much it will cost, how safe it is for your family, what the monthly maintenance will be like, if it has all the latest features, and of course, the company's service network. It's a significant investment, and you want to make sure you're making the right choice. Today, we're diving deep into a luxury SUV that's been making waves in the premium segment: the Lexus NX 350h F-sport. If you're looking for a blend of luxury, efficiency, and sporty appeal, this might just be your next ride!

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The Lexus NX 350h F-sport is powered by a sophisticated self-charging hybrid system. This means it combines a petrol engine with electric motors for impressive efficiency and performance.

• Engine Type: 2.5-litre, 4-cylinder Atkinson-cycle petrol engine
• Electric Motors: Two electric motors (front and rear for AWD)
• Total System Output: Approximately 240 horsepower
• Transmission: E-CVT (Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission)

Design Overview

Exterior

The NX 350h F-sport makes a bold statement with its athletic and sharp design. It stands out from the crowd.

• Spindle Grille: Features a unique F-sport mesh pattern for a more aggressive look.
• Headlights: Sleek, L-shaped LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) give it a distinctive gaze.
• Body Lines: Sharp, angular lines flow from front to back, enhancing its dynamic stance.
• F-Sport Specifics: Exclusive F-sport bumpers, black exterior accents, and larger alloy wheels complete the sporty appeal.

Interior

Step inside, and you're greeted by a driver-focused, luxurious cabin with a premium feel.

• Tazuna Concept: The cockpit is designed around the 'Tazuna' concept, where all controls are within easy reach, mimicking a rider and horse connection.
• Premium Materials: High-quality leather, soft-touch materials, and metallic accents are used throughout.
• Seating: F-sport seats offer excellent bolstering for spirited driving, along with heating and ventilation functions.
• Ambiance: A refined and quiet cabin experience, typical of Lexus.

Key Features

The Lexus NX 350h F-sport comes packed with technology and convenience features to enhance your driving experience.

• Infotainment Screen: Large 14-inch touchscreen display for navigation and entertainment.
• Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.
• Sunroof: Panoramic sunroof for an airy cabin feel.
• Camera: 360-degree camera system for easy parking and maneuvering in tight spots.
• Wireless Charging: Convenient wireless phone charging pad.
• Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic climate control with S-Flow technology.
• Head-Up Display: Projects key information onto the windshield.
• Ventilated Seats: Front seats with heating and ventilation.

What is the Ground Clearance of Lexus NX 350h F-sport?

The Lexus NX 350h F-sport offers a ground clearance of 185 mm, which is quite adequate for navigating Indian roads and occasional rough patches.

What is the Boot Space of Lexus NX 350h F-sport?

The boot space available in the Lexus NX 350h F-sport is 520 litres. This provides ample room for your luggage, groceries, or weekend getaway essentials.

What are the Dimensions of Lexus NX 350h F-sport?

Here are the key dimensions of the Lexus NX 350h F-sport:

• Length: 4660 mm
• Width: 1865 mm
• Height: 1670 mm
• Wheelbase: 2690 mm

Powertrain Options

As the name suggests, the Lexus NX 350h F-sport exclusively comes with a self-charging hybrid electric powertrain. There are no pure petrol or diesel engine options available for this specific variant in India. This focus on hybrid technology contributes to its impressive fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for Lexus, and the NX 350h F-sport is equipped with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety technologies:

• Lexus Safety System+ 3.0: A suite of advanced safety features including:
• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection
• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
• Lane Tracing Assist
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
• Automatic High Beam
• Airbags: 8 airbags for all-round protection.
• Braking Systems: ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution).
• Stability Control: Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC).
• Parking Assist: Front and rear parking sensors.

NCAP Rating Table

Knowing a car's safety rating is crucial. Here's how the Lexus NX generally fares in global safety assessments:

Rating Body	Rating	Year
Euro NCAP	5 Stars	2022
Bharat NCAP	Not yet rated	N/A

The 5-star Euro NCAP rating is a strong indicator of the NX's excellent safety standards, offering peace of mind to occupants.

Rivals of Lexus NX 350h F-sport

In the competitive luxury SUV segment in India, the Lexus NX 350h F-sport goes up against some strong contenders:

• BMW X3
• Mercedes-Benz GLC
• Audi Q5
• Volvo XC60

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Let's weigh the advantages and disadvantages to help you decide if the Lexus NX 350h F-sport is the right fit for you.

Pros

• Exceptional Refinement: The hybrid powertrain is smooth and quiet, offering a serene driving experience.
• Fuel Efficiency: Being a self-charging hybrid, it delivers impressive fuel economy for a luxury SUV.
• Lexus Reliability: Known for its legendary build quality and long-term reliability.
• Luxurious Interior: Premium materials, excellent fit-and-finish, and a well-appointed cabin.
• Strong Safety: Comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 and a 5-star Euro NCAP rating.
• F-Sport Dynamics: Offers a sportier driving experience with adaptive suspension and sharper handling compared to standard NX models.
• Feature-Rich: Packed with modern technology and convenience features.

Cons

• Price: Being a CBU (Completely Built Unit) import, it carries a premium price tag.
• F-Sport Ride Firmness: The sportier suspension might lead to a slightly firmer ride over very broken surfaces compared to its comfort-oriented rivals.
• Boot Space: While 520 litres is good, some rivals offer slightly more cargo capacity.
• Service Network: Lexus has a growing but still smaller service network compared to the established German luxury brands in India.
• Design: The sharp, aggressive styling might not appeal to everyone's taste.

Conclusion

The Lexus NX 350h F-sport stands out as a compelling choice in the premium mid-size SUV segment in India. It beautifully blends Lexus's signature luxury and reliability with modern hybrid efficiency and F-sport's dynamic appeal. If you're someone who values a refined driving experience, cutting-edge safety, a feature-packed interior, and excellent fuel economy, all wrapped in a distinctive design, the NX 350h F-sport deserves a serious look.

While its price point and potentially firmer ride (for F-sport) are considerations, its unique proposition as a luxury hybrid, backed by Lexus's impeccable brand reputation, makes it a strong contender. Take a test drive and experience the 'Lexus difference' for yourself; it might just be the perfect luxury SUV for your garage!