The development is ahead of schedule, and the 2021 Lexus NX will be the pioneer of the second generation. The compact crossover needs a huge overhaul, and only a complete redesign will help. The company recently launched an all-new subcompact UX. Its larger sibling will have to wait until 2021 for the production since there are other priorities in the next 12 months or so.
The NX is a premium model that seats five persons. There are no official details about the new generation, though. The company confirmed it is coming in the near future. Experts with reliable sources found out a few things about the upcoming 2021 Lexus NX. First, it will be built in Canada. At least at the start. Second, production starts in 2021. Everything else is still a mystery, including the exterior redesign, interior update, and changes under the hood.
Redesign
The new 2021 Lexus NX is under the redesign. The company is bringing a lot of novelties, inside and outside the vehicle. If we take a look at the front fascia and the grille of the latest addition to the crossover lineup, Lexus UX, we can find some clues what will a nose on the larger model look like. Still, everything grows on the NX.
Inside, we will see more equipment on the base model. Also, there will be the F Sport and 300h Hybrid version to complete the lineup. Each of these models will carry a unique combination of features and accessories. The premium model will also be larger than before. However, until we see the first spy photos, we can’t know exactly what to expect.
2021 Lexus NX 300h Hybrid
Under the hood of the 2021 Lexus NX buyers can find either a conventional petrol engine or a hybrid setup. The base model is using a 2.0-liter turbo-four unit. It is producing 235 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. This one is coming back as the standard option for the new NX. The new generation can also bring fresh transmission. Currently, the crossover sends power through a six-speed auto gearbox. You can choose either an FWD or AWD setup.
While the petrol mill comes unchanged, we can see an upgrade of the 2021 Lexus NX 300h hybrid model. The base remains the same – a 2.5-l four-cylinder displacement. Naturally-aspirated, it creates only 154 hp. At this moment, the support comes from an electric motor, for 195 hp combined. The new setup will include a larger battery, which means more power and better fuel economy.
2021 Lexus NX F Sport
The second generation of the compact luxury crossover is also changing its most attractive models. The 2021 Lexus NX F Sport is not a high-output version, but it still enhances the driving impression. A special suspension setup with a stiffer ride will improve handling and maneuvering. Also, a few exterior details will make the appearance more aggressive. However, this is not top of the class model, since you can find a more luxurious offer with the Luxury package.
Competition
Like for the standard offer, the premium segment brings a lot of options for buyers. Cadillac XT5 draws a lot of attention recently. Lexus is also fighting GM in the subcompact segment, where both companies added a new vehicle (UX vs XT4). Lincoln Corsair is another US-built crossover that is relatively new on the market.
Japanese and German companies are also quite popular in the market. Acura RDX, Infiniti QX50, BMW X3, Audi Q5, Mercedes GLC are other options you can consider buying. Of course, there is a Swedish representative – Volvo XC60, with a powerful plug-in hybrid system.
Read more about one of the best models in the class, BMW X3.
2021 BMW X3 Release Date, M40i Specs
NX Will Be Built in Canada
The early information confirms that Canada will be a home for the 2021 Lexus NX. The carmaker will build the next-gen crossover in Ontario, and this is the first time we see NX not coming from Japan. We doubt the company will move it to the US, but this way, the crossover is closer to the main market where it achieves the best-selling results.
Lexus Plant in Ontario, Canada
2021 Lexus NX Could be Cheaper
Lexus cut the price for the 2020 season model. Savings are significant, but our concern is the new generation. This might show the upcoming crossover could get a lower price tag than before. Or Lexus is going to bring back the cost to the level we already got used to?
Source: AutoNews
