What's New for 2015

Introduction

Lexus affiliates around the globe have called on the Japan mother ship to fill a growing need in the brand's lineup: a compact crossover. The time has finally come as the 2015 Lexus NX 200t will join the lineup this fall.

The small SUV will slot in under the RX model, a mainstay of the Lexus line. The NX will ride on a wheelbase just 3 inches shorter than the RX, but will be about 5.5 inches shorter and about 2.5 inches narrower overall. The NX 200t will also use the brand's first turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Now a staple of compact performance cars and small-to-midsize crossovers, the turbo four-cylinder in the NX 200t will deliver 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive are standard.

An F Sport edition will feature a more aggressive exterior design, exclusive wheels, a sport suspension, sport seats and a paddle-shifted transmission.

The NX line will also feature the NX 300h hybrid model. It gets a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with electric motor assist and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Both NX models come standard with front-wheel drive while offering all-wheel drive as an option.

Inside the NX 200t, Lexus has focused on driver engagement with a low seating position that should both enhance connection to the road and increase headroom. Tech and safety features includes a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a multimedia interface with touchpad (for letter and character input) and a wireless charging tray for mobile devices.

The NX 200t and NX 300h will arrive at Lexus dealers this fall, making Lexus a timely arrival to a segment that includes the BMW X1 and the Buick Encore. Forthcoming models like the 2014 Audi Q3 and 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class will broaden the choices among premium compact crossovers.

Check back for more on the 2015 NX 200t, including specs, driving impressions and buying advice as it becomes available.