Lexus’ wild compact SUV concept debuted earlier this year with a hybrid powertrain and exterior that demonstrates what happens when a bunch of designers throw razor blades into a blender for inspiration — don’t try that at home, kids. This most recent LF-NX concept debuting at the Tokyo Motor Show Nov. 20 is a performance-oriented model with a new engine that — like the first concept — has more chance of production than its stealth-fighter exterior.
A 2.0-liter turbocharged engine makes its way under this concept’s hood, and Lexus says the turbo engine provides “guaranteed” power and improved fuel economy. Currently, there isn’t a turbocharged four-cylinder engine in any Toyota or Lexus sold in the U.S.
This LF-NX concept has a lower center of gravity illustrated by a front spoiler and “SUV-unique power.”
The LF-NX concept is smaller than the current RX and more similarly sized to a smaller, sporty SUV like Infiniti’s QX50 — formerly the EX35. The LF-NX is 182.7 inches long, 63.8 inches tall and 73.6 inches wide, while the QX50 is 182.3 inches long, 61.9 inches tall and 71 inches wide.
Managing Editor Joe Bruzek’s 22 years of automotive experience doesn’t count the lifelong obsession that started as a kid admiring his dad’s 1964 Chevrolet Corvette — and continues to this day. Joe’s been an automotive journalist with Cars.com for 16 years, writing shopper-focused car reviews, news and research content. As Managing Editor, one of his favorite areas of focus is helping shoppers understand electric cars and how to determine whether going electric is right for them. In his free time, Joe maintains a love-hate relationship with his 1998 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am that he wishes would fix itself.
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