This is the Lexus NX, the brand’s all-new range Rover Evoque rival. The car has made its official debut on the Lexus stand at the 2014 Beijing motor Show.
The edgy, angular lines of the concept have been toned down for the road car but the NX is still seriously striking. The huge ‘spindle’ grille dominate the front end, and the aggressive split headlights are inspired by the IS F sport saloon.
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Underneath, three powertrains will be available. The NX300h in out pictures is powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder Atkinson petrol engine, while an electric motor fitted to the rear axle adds extra performance when needed – removing the need for a mechanical link to make the four-wheel drive system work.
It’s the same layout as the larger RX350h, but features the same regenerative braking system and batteries from the newer IS300h. There is no word on the C02 emissions at this stage, but expect the NX300h to considerably undercut the cleanest eD4 version of the Evoque in terms of fuel economy – with an official figure of around 65mpg combined likely.
There will also be two petrol powered versions – the flagship will be the new NX200t – an all-new 2.0-litre turbo unit with around 250bhp, which looks set to roll out across the range, replacing the old 2.5-litre V6 in a number of models.