The Lexus NX is offered in three derivatives, the 300 EX, 300 F-Sport and 300h SE. All three variants are powered by a petrol motor with no diesel engine options on offer, however, the 300h SE model features hybrid technology. The range underwent a mild update in December 2017 where Lexus added new headlamps, a new grille with chrome frame, updated side grille, bumper and lower bumper elements.
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The recent update also saw the rear fitted with new LED combination lamps while the rear bumper and license plate garnish have also been updated. While mechanical updates focussed on increasing comfort and stability in the suspension setup, the most notable interior refinement saw the addition of a 10.3-inch infotainment screen with enhanced graphics.
Hybrid technology
Lexus introduced its first hybrid model in 2005 with the RX 400h, however, in 2007 Lexus made history when they introduced the first full hybrid V8 powertrain in their flagship saloon, the LS 600h. Subsequently, Lexus has been introducing more vehicles across their range with, the efficient and environmentally friendly, hybrid technology. Currently, the Japanese automaker offers 8 vehicles with hybrid powertrains across its model range.
The main benefits of the technology are lower fuel consumption and less CO2 production. This means hybrid owners not only save money at the fuel pumps but also contribute less to global warming. While in other countries, owning a hybrid vehicle will result in lower road taxes, but South Africa is yet to adopt similar rebate systems.
The figures
Although Lexus offers three derivatives in the NX range, the 300 EX and 300 F-Sport shares the same engine and produces identical figures. We will be comparing the motor fitted in theses variants with the powertrain in the hybrid offering to determine which is best.
| Lexus NX 300 EX and F-Sport | Lexus NX 300h SE | |
| Engine | 2.0-litre, turbocharged, 4-cylinder | 2.5-litre, 4-cylinder, petrol-electric hybrid |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic | 5-step CVT |
| Power | 175 kW | 150 kW |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 210 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h | 7.1s | 9.2s |
| Top speed | 200 km/h | 180 km/h |
| Fuel consumption | 7.9 L / 100 km | 6.0 L / 100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 184 g/km | 140 g/km |
Verdict
When comparing the motor in the 300 EX and F-Sport variants with the engine in the 300h SE, one can clearly see that the former outperform the hybrid offering. If power and speed are what you are looking for then those models will suit you better, however, if your vehicle's frugality and environmental impact are important then you might want to consider the hybrid model.
The Lexus NX 300 EX is priced at R751 800 while the 300 F-Sport start at R883 500. The Lexus 300h SE sits at the very top of the list and will set you back R971 200. Taking all of this into consideration, for us, the 300 F-Sport is the one to have as it offers sharp and dramatic styling on the exterior and a host of standard equipment and refinement on the interior.
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