Lexus NX300h Engine & Performance
The NX300h gets the same 2.5 litre petrol engine that also does duty in the Camry Hybrid and the ES300h. There are two electric motors because the NX is an all wheel drive. The total power output stands at 197 horsepower. The petrol engine along with one electric motor sends power to the front wheel while the second electric motor powers the rear wheels. There is also a generator motor that charges the batteries. Press the start button and the NX starts up in electric mode with an eerie silence. You also start off in electric mode and there is instant throttle response. I have actually started to love driving these hybrids. Drive with a light foot and the experience is extremely nice making you appreciate hybrids even more. You don’t even realize when the petrol engine kicks in either. Its only when you try to drive enthusiastically that you realize the shortcomings. The engine feels strained at full throttle and the main reason for this is the e-CVT gearbox. While it feels smooth at sedate speeds, it gets very noisy when you try and accelerate flat out. It gets so disturbing that you automatically let go of the throttle pedal. In short the NX is best driven in a relaxed manner. There are four drive modes; Eco, Normal, Sport and Sport+. Eco and Normal work best in every urban city traffic. The NX most of the time potters around using electric power only plus there’s a full EV mode too that can be activated via the button on the centre console. If the batteries run out of juice the petrol motor automatically kicks in. On the other hand, Sport and Sport+ are best used on open roads. The shifts from the CVT box are sharper, steering feels nicely weighed and throttle response is nicer too. There is a slight lag in kickdown but you can also shift manually via the steering mounted paddle shifters.
Lexus has given adaptive variable suspension with the NX. Here, the dampers adjust themselves all the time to offer good ride quality. While the ride is compliant most of the times, it feels stiff at lower speeds. There is noticeable vertical movement at high speeds as well but it isn’t too bothersome. It is also fun to throw into corners but there is a hint of understeer. The steering feels pretty precise too for an electronic unit and confident as well. The NX gets disc brakes all around and features regenerative braking. The brakes are powerful enough and response is quick.
Safety features include 8 airbags, ABS, Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control System, Hill Start Assist and 360 degree cameras.
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