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Multiple sources are claiming the 2021 Lexus NX is heading into a new generation. The compact crossover is one of the hottest units in the segment and the Japanese company outsold the all-new BMW X3 in 2019. With the new series of NX, we can expect huge things. Well, the Lexus RX is the best-seller in the mid-size class and it has no rival to compete with. The manufacturer will try to carry over the momentum to a smaller tier of SUVs.
The crossover was launched in 2015 and it is currently built in three plants across Japan. The US market is going to be supplied from the Miyata factory, while the company also considers moving the production to this part of the world. However, this is an expensive move and it pays off for Toyota (Lexus’ parent company), a leader in most segments.
2021 Lexus NX Expectations
With the new generation, new opportunities will be there for Lexus. However, fans are going to ask for more. The balance between offer and demand is crucial and we believe the Japanese manufacturer will manage to satisfy both sides. The last time we saw the redesign, the company surprised everyone with the radical turn in styling. It wasn’t accepted well at the first time, but the long-term potential shows now. The NX is among the best-selling vehicles in the class.
The 2021 Lexus NX will again use a similar approach. A stunning design will help Japanese carmaker draw more attention. Well, this is a proven recipe and the last time it was fruitful. We’ll see if the company is about to keep the spindle grille as the spotlight feature. Also, the interior should be revisited. One of the downsides of the NX is the cabin space and a new layout will provide more room for passengers and cargo.
Engines
The compact crossover will keep a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder mill as the standard source of energy. The motor generates 235 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, which is 20 ponies less than its direct rival, BMW X3. The big lack of the NX is missing on the performance version. Most luxury crossovers are offering models that are able to burst more power. Lexus could fix this, but we still don’t have confirmation. Meanwhile, a 2.0 engine comes in pair with a six-speed auto transmission and a front-wheel drive. The NX is not so efficient with 25 mpg, or 24 mpg if you want all-wheel traction.
The crossover might not offer the performance-oriented version, but there is a fuel-saving hybrid edition. The 2021 Lexus NX is going to improve the current specs. A 2.5-liter engine is a petrol choice, while the larger battery will push it to better performance. Expect significant boost from current’s 200 hp. Also, the fuel economy will remain one of the reasons why we buy this model. Currently, the NX hybrid returns 33/30 mpg, all that with an all-wheel drive.
2021 Lexus NX Redesign
The exterior of the 2021 Lexus NX will suffer the most. The crossover made a strong and immediate impact when it appeared in 2015. Back then, the styling was futuristic, making it attractive even now. But, the carmaker and its designers are ready for the next step. Yes, there is a lot of room for upgrades, but the first thing we see is the shape of the vehicle. To draw more attention, Lexus will try to stun the public again with its radical approaches to designing the crossover.
One of the key things is to make interior roomier. Most rivals can offer more space than NX. With a new layout, the vehicle could compete with Acura RDX and Cadillac XT5. Good thing is that all Lexus vehicles are now offering both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Plus, the company is developing a new infotainment system. Finally, that will improve safety, which is already among the best in the segment.
Plug-In Hybrid
We found rumors mentioning the PHEV version of the 2021 Lexus NX. It has sense, especially with its close sibling, Toyota Rav4, going the same way for the upcoming season. Well, this is practically the same company, and we can assume that the success of the NX is related to record sales of its sibling last season. Toyota managed to find over 450,000 homes for its compact crossover. So, after a debut of Rav4 Prime plug-in hybrid, fans can also expect the 2021 Lexus NX PHEV.
2021 Lexus NX Release Date
In the next couple of months, we will know more about the upcoming vehicle. The company should start production of the next-gen model this summer. The premiere will happen later this year with the immediate start of sales. Changes will cause the price to go up, but the 2021 Lexus NX will remain competitive with the main rivals w already mentioned.
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