If you forgot about the Lexus NX, you did it with a reason. The compact crossover is in the shadow of its larger siblings. Also, the company’s most recent addition comes for the subcompact segment. But, after all, other updates, now it is time for the 2021 Lexus NX to suffer big changes.
The company didn’t bring anything new for the 2020 YM. In this class, where changes are probably the most frequent, the NX hadn’t any serious update ever since it stepped into the market (2015). Whatsoever, the crossover maintained excellent selling records. It is still attractive for all generations of buyers.
One of the main advantages for the 2021 Lexus NX is going to be the hybrid drivetrain. Current model made a serious impact, and the new generation is ready to upgrade numbers – horsepower, torque, and gas mileage. The new system is under development. The base drivetrain for the hybrid setup is again a 2.5-liter petrol mill.
2021 Lexus NX Redesign Changes
As said, it’s been five years since we saw the first edition of the NX compact crossover. All this time, the vehicle had no major update, but it still managed to keep the pace with the competition. When we read about the model for the 2020 season, the expectations grew, but only for a while. Soon enough, the automotive world found out the company is not bringing too many serious changes.
So, there is no way to delay the 2021 Lexus NX redesign. Changes must be done if the crossover wants to survive. Cadillac XT4, BMW X3, Audi Q5, Lincoln Corsair, Acura RDX, Infiniti QX50… these rivals all had some huge modifications since the NX entered the segment.
Designers are not going to change the eye-catching spindle grille. The F Sport edition is getting a new facelift and totally different visual appearance. We’ll talk about this model later. The base crossover is going to be slightly larger than before. Currently, NX is 182 inches long, with a 105-in wheelbase. With the gain of length, the vehicle will come with more space inside the cabin.
New Features and Accessories
The 2021 Lexus NX will belong to the premium segment. Just take a look at the price, and everything is going to be clear. Well, cool news is coming from Toyota. The company is adding Android Auto. So, its premium segment will finally pair this and another connectivity service, Apple CarPlay (available for Toyota and Lexus since 2018). The new NX will offer both.
2021 Lexus NX F Sport
Top of the range model for the upcoming NX lineup is going to be the F Sport. The name might suggest some performance-oriented version, but there are no specs upgrades. Instead, this package tunes suspension to deliver a smoother ride and better handling. Special shocks and slightly lower position will improve balance and aerodynamic.
The 2021 Lexus NX F Sport also boosts the interior and exterior. The unique grille and side skirts are making this crossover easy to recognize. Also, the package brings its own colors to the paintjob palette.
More Power From Petrol Drivetrain
Under the bonnet of the new NX is the same 2.0-liter turbo engine. This unit is capable to deliver 235 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Engineers are working on a boost, and fans could see the new NX at 250 horsepower in 2021. A six-speed automatic gearbox sends power to front wheels. Fuel economy is not bad for this class and the crossover returns 25 mpg combined, both for FWD and AWD. The F Sport consumes slightly more gasoline. The towing capacity of the NX will remain at 2,000 pounds.
2021 Lexus NX Hybrid
Besides the conventional engine, the 2021 Lexus NX hybrid will be part of the offer as well. This one is based on a 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated petrol engine, that works fine with standard fuel (turbo performs best with premium gas). Standard outputs are 155 hp and 152 lb-ft of torque.
The new electric motor is going to add extra energy. This time, the NX hybrid will produce more than 200 horsepower. Also, expect the urban mileage to be around 35 mpg (currently at 33 miles per gallon). Also, the transmission is a CVT and the only available drive is AWD.
Precise (official) information is not available yet, but we can also hear that the plug-in version is also possible. This model will run 30 miles by using electric energy only.
When Will 2020 Lexus NX Come Out?
In the mid-2019 the company announced the new 2020 YM without serious changes. That leaves enough time to designers and engineers to tune the NX for upcoming challenges. The first appearance the vehicle could get early next year, but just as a concept. More details are going to be available in the second half of the season, while the sales are starting not before the final quarter. Meanwhile, Lexus will correct the prices. The larger and redesigned crossover will definitely cost more than before.
