Edgy 2015 Lexus NX 200t proves agile and downright youthful

Lexus joins the crowded upscale compact SUV fray with the new NX. Clearly, late to the party, the key question is, “Does the NX bring anything new?”

Although derived from Toyota’s popular RAV4, the NX encompasses a vastly different style, driving dynamics, utility, interior ambience and—of course—price. Where the RAV4 serves as a mainstream compact crossover and is typically priced in the high $20,000s, the NX is a designer version meant to chase the likes of fashionable crossovers such as the Audi Q5 and BMW X3.

While the NX starts at an enticing $35,880, typical option packages quickly bloat the price to the low- to mid-$40,000 range. Our popularly equipped car with the Premium and Navigation packages, plus a few other odds and ends, landed at $43,284. Still, comparably equipped, the NX cuts its main competitors by about $3,000.

New for Lexus, there’s a four-cylinder turbo mill powering the NX. It’s a 235-horsepower, 2.0-liter engine that turns out to be one of the most refined units among this ilk. It has no turbo lag. Instead, the force-fed four provides a linear power delivery and a smooth, refined demeanor. Those drivers used to a silky V6 won’t be disappointed. The six-speed automatic is two ratios short compared to the Q5 and X3, but it works well, shifting unobtrusively. The NX is also offered as a hybrid, employing a similar powertrain that fitted in the Toyota Camry and Lexus ES 300h with a total output of 194 hp. The EPA estimates this new hybrid will return 32 mpg overall. Perhaps this is Lexus’ answer to the diesel offerings from the European competitors.

For years, Lexus channeled their inner old-school Buick, building cars that were soft, plush and isolating. And most Lexus customers felt right at home. But the NX aims to change that perception and woo buyers away from sharp-driving competitors, like the aforementioned prestige-brand SUVs. Indeed, the NX proves taut and responsive with a resolute attitude when taking corners. It may not be as rewarding to drive as those German athletes, but it’s certainly close.

The ride is firm and tightly controlled, yet absorbent enough on winter-ravaged New England roads. We don’t think that NX owners will complain. But if you expect a downsized Lexus RX type of plushness, then you’re not looking at the right car.

Naturally, smaller vehicles will forego some space for their stylish exteriors, snazzy interiors, and the luxurious ownership experience. The NX is feels very cozy inside. The dashboard and door panels wrap around you, making it feel cocooning and intimate. Some drivers noted that the center console was encroaching on their right knee.

The NX’s styling is distinguished by small windows and a high beltline, with a cumulative effect that may be good for appearance but certainly bad for visibility. The rear three-quarter view is especially lousy for parking and merging. Thank goodness a rear camera is standard; buyers should strongly consider opting for the blind-spot monitoring system, too.