Lexus NX officially revealed : NX200, NX200t, NX300h variants confirmed

With its toned-down but still sharp and assertive styling largely uncovered by earlier leaks, the big news is in the additional details released by the Japanese car maker, which will present its new model in public for the first time at the Beijing auto show on April 20.

As expected, the line-up will include a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol NX200t variant and an NX300h hybrid, which is believed to borrow its 2.5-litre petrol engine/electric motor powertrain from the IS300h sedan. The entry variant will be the NX200, which will be powered by a naturally aspirated engine, potentially a non-turbo version of the new 2.0-litre unit. Lexus says it will also offer stop-start technology with a petrol drivetrain for the first time in the NX.

The trio will be offered with the option of front- and all-wheel drive.

A host of technology features will be available, headlined by a Lexus-first wireless charging tray to enable charging of smartphones and other portable devices, and the first application of a new Lexus Remote Touch interface with a touchpad.

A camera-based 360-degree Panoramic View Monitor will also be available alongside a heads-up display, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert system, and a multi-information display with a brand-first G sensor and boost meter.

The Lexus NX also claims to feature a world-first door handle mechanism with a hidden key barrel and integrated lighting, as well as the lowest hip point in its segment for ease of ingress and egress and a longer luggage load length than its rivals.

In a statement, Lexus Australia CEO Sean Hanley said a final decision had not been made on the NX for our market, claiming one was expected “very soon”, though it’s introduction is a no-brainer and expected to take place by the beginning of 2015.

Positioned below the larger RX and with its sights firmly set on the Audi Q5 and BMW X3, the Lexus NX is expected to start at around $60,000 in Australia.

Stay tuned for more details from the Lexus NX’s Beijing debut later this month.