Lexus NX 300h announced for India
Lexus has unveiled its next product for the Indian market - Lexus NX 300h. It is the smallest SUV in Lexus' lineup positioned below the RX 450h sold in India. The company will reveal the price list by January 2018.
Akitoshi Takemura, President, Lexus India commented on the unveiling -
The Lexus NX 300h brings to life the qualities which set us apart and delivers a lifestyle that is uniquely Lexus. This premium urban sports gear delivers exceptional design and comfort and is a fashionable car that suits urban style and use. The strikingly bold design of the NX 300h is coupled with the performance of a hybrid electric vehicle that makes this a cool SUV.
The Lexus NX 300h will be available in India in two variants – the F Sport and Luxury. Visual differentiators include a grille, bumper, and alloy wheels. The NX's design draws inspiration from the facets of a cut gemstone. It features LED triple-projector-beam headlamps and LED tail lamps.
Unsurprisingly, the Lexus NX 300h will be loaded with kit. Highlights include a kick-sensor-activated power rear door, power-folding and power-reclining rear seats, Mark Levinson hi-fi system with ClariFi technology featuring 14 speakers. The Lexus NX boasts a 360° panoramic surround view monitor and a 10.3-inch split-screen multimedia display.
Powers comes from a 2.5 L, 4-cylinder in-line engine that works in conjunction with a pair of electric motors at the rear resulting in a combined output is at 194 PS. Lexus claims the NX delivers an ARAI certified mileage of 18.32 km/l.
As mentioned earlier, Lexus is yet to reveal prices of the NX 300h. According to our estimates, the SUV will carry a sticker price of around INR 60-70 lakhs (ex-showroom). Prices will be on the higher side owing to the fact that it will be brought via the CBU route. Battling high import duties, Lexus is currently evaluating local assembly for the Indian market. However, a timeframe is yet to be finalised.