Lexus NX200t 2015 Review

We love:

• Cheaper than the hybrid alternative
• Turbo-charged engine
• Excellent on-road refinement and cabin quality

Pain points:

• High boot floor limits load capacity
• Fiddly touchpad
• Engine could be sportier

Lexus NX200t 2015 review

With the first turbo-petrol engine made by Lexus, the 2015 Lexus NX200t is a landmark for the brand, improving upon the already popular mid-sized crossover with a new engine resulting from nine years in development.

Stepping away from the hybrid will allow this mid-size SUV to appeal to a broader Australian market, with the stand-out design a brave move for the conservative luxury brand.

Exterior of the Lexus NX200t 2015

With the signature large Lexus grille, LED headlights, and a unique exterior design featuring upward sweeping grooves along the sides and a distinctive front end, this Lexus NX200t stands apart from the competition. The styling flows smoothly from the front to rear, creating a coherent and attractive stance that catches the eye.

Eye-catching Lexus - image courtesy of Cars Guide

The powered rear tail-gate, electric handbrake and rain-sensing wipers contribute to the occupants' experience of luxury. It's unique, a luxury version of it's more affordable sister, that Australian favourite the Toyota Rav 4.

Inside the Lexus NX200t 2015

It's quiet inside the cabin, with thick door seals, and reasonable leg rooms in the back seat. The high window line might make it hard for small children to see out if they aren't on a booster seat. The interior is high-quality leather and Nulux, and very comfortable. There's 500 litres of space in the boot, or three times that with the rear seats folded 60:40.

Lexus NX200t cabin luxury - image courtesy of Cars Guide

Driver comfort is further enhanced with electronic steering column adjustment, heated electrically-adjustable seats, and an electric handbrake which opens up a larger console space. The Sports Luxury model also has a sunroof and higher-grade leather seats.

Eight airbags contribute to the 5 star ANCAP safety rating, along with active cruise control, a 360-degree panoramic view monitor, a blind spot monitor, front and rear parking sonar and reversing camera.

Connectivity

There's a 10-speaker audio system with DAB+ radio, USB and Bluetooth input pairs seamlessly. The full-colour heads-up display touchscreen also displays a surround camera, with a touchpad rather than a rotary dial making it easier to use.

There's also a wireless inductive phone charger in most options, and satellite navigation. Upgrading to the Sports Luxury model, you'll get a 14-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.

What's it like to drive a Lexus NX200t 2015?

The new engine has been tested over 1 million kilometres and 10,000 hours, and transmission is a conventional six-speed auto with paddles rather than the hybrid sisters CVT. It's a 1998cc engine that produces 175 kilowatts and 350 newton-metres of torque.

The engine combines an Atkinson cycle, designed to maximise the engine efficiency, with an Otto cycle spark-ignition combustion process providing power. Combining these system sequences allows power to be optimally balanced with efficiency.

Dual cycle efficient turbo engine - image courtesy of Cars Guide

In practice, it means that it's a refined engine to drive, without turbo-lag and plenty of oomph. It's got low-range power, 0 to 100 kilometres per hour is achieved in 7.1 seconds - a full two seconds faster than the hybrid, and it has a towing capacity of 1,000 kilograms. In 'sports mode' it's lively to drive as the gearbox holds lower ratios for longer, with smooth overtaking when you plan ahead.

The NX200t is even competent off-road, handling well and breaking out of the crossover model to display real SUV capability.

The Lexus NX200t comes with a four-year, 100,000-kilometre warranty, free loan cars or pick-up/drop-off for services and comprehensive roadside assistance.

Who's the Lexus NX200t 2015 for?

This luxury SUV is made for urban driving, focusing on comfort over performance, and delivering a viable alternative to German brands in this segment. The turbo engine has grunt and will attract more Australian buyers than the hybrid.

With a petrol engine and superior comfort, small families looking for a vehicle to safely and smoothly navigate Australia's cities or even touring, won't be disappointed with this car, particularly if the new shape appeals. It's not sporty, but it does the job it promises while keeping everyone inside relaxed and comfortable.

Feature Summary

Price: available second hand for $43,990-$62,880

Engine: 2.0L four-cylinder turbo 1998cc (175kW/350Nm)

Transmission: Six-speed automatic with paddle-shifters

Wheels: 18-inch wheels with 225/50 or 235/55 tyres.

Safety: 5 star ANCAP

Fuel: 7.7L/100km, 60L fuel tank.

Emissions: 184g/km

AV and tech: Heads-up display touchscreen, sat nav, DAB+ radio

Seats: 5

Doors: 5

You can finance a Lexus NX200t 2015 from $210/week*, get a quick quote to find out exactly what it will cost to own this luxury SUV.

No time to shop around for your car? Just tell us exactly what you want, including the features and colour. We will find the vehicle to match and negotiate the best price for you.

*Over a 5-year loan term.