The previous NX was a bit on the compact side for a medium SUV, reflecting its ageing Toyota New MC architecture, that was developed essentially to underpin smaller cars like the Toyota Corolla and Prius as well as the RAV4 SUV.
Worse than that, though, the original NX was loud, with fidgety suspension and too much road and engine noise coming inside. It was very not-on-brand.
Still, nearly a million buyers globally snapped them up, attracted by the handsome styling and Lexus' reputation for quality.
Thankfully, the new-from-the-ground-up TNGA architecture cribbed from the latest, impressive RAV4 has rectified all issues in the latest NX.
Now the NX is properly medium-sized, and so easier to get in and out of, as well as palpably roomier front and rear.
Being the entry-level 250, you might not expect much in terms of interior presentation or style, but the product planners have been smart in specifying this grade to make it seem luxurious. It looks, feels and smells expensive in here.
Then there’s the driving position, with an electrically-operated reach/height adjustable steering column and a multi-configurable seat to help find the right spot. All-round vision is also better than you might expect, no doubt helped out by huge exterior mirrors and a large reversing camera screen.
Typical Lexus-style classy digital instrumentation, is clear and easy to take in. The same applies to the now touch-only centre screen, which has a slick rich finish and tactility, and also encompasses the climate-control display.
These and the simplified sub-screen menus for navigation, wireless telephony/audio streaming, vehicle diagnoses and vehicle settings amongst other features, is quickly second-nature in their accessibility and operation. And the sound system quality is great too.
There's more, from the superb ventilation system and lovely lush materials of satisfying quality to the seemingly endless storage options, the NX is ridiculously practical.
Accessing the back seat is easy due to the latest model’s larger proportions. Much of the same applies out back as the front seat area in terms of comfort, quality of finish and attention to detail. There's more-than-sufficient space for two burly adults or three smaller people.
