Showing posts with label Lexus. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lexus. Show all posts
2026 Lexus GX550 Sports Luxury
2024 Lexus LC500 Convertible
It's not every day that you get the keys to a car that makes you want to jump out of bed every morning. The car I'm referring to is a dashing-looking soft-top convertible with a naturally aspirated V8 engine. Here's my verdict on the Lexus LC500 convertible after using it over the summer holidays.
2024 Lexus LC500 Convertible
The Lexus LC500 Convertible is a good-looking grand tourer packing a naturally aspirated V8 engine. Remember that? Yes, they still exist.
However, it is quickly becoming rare, I can't remember the last time I drove a vehicle that had a V8 engine and was that powerful. It's not just about what's under the hood of this car, as there's a lot to like about the Lexus LC500 convertible.
Firstly, it looks very handsome. OK, looks are a personal preference, but it's safe to say that this bold GT has a unique look and is undoubtedly an eye-catcher, even more so with the Infrared finish on this test car.
I met a lot of people during my time with this car, and that's because I stopped at servos, coffee shops, shopping centers, you name it. Everyone seems to love them, and it makes me wonder why I see so few of them on the road.
In addition to the sleek design, there is an added beauty to sailing with the roof down. The sensation of a cool breeze blowing through the cabin, proudly stepping out of the car with messy hair.
This is a fun and enjoyable Lexus – a car that has the power to trigger emotions with the simplest of tasks. Whether you start it, rev it, upshift, downshift, take off at the lights, or open the roof – the LC is a driver's car and a delight for the senses.
The Lexus LC500 was first launched in 2017 for the 2018 model year, and the convertible will join in 2021. There are three variants to choose from – LC500 V8 coupe, LC500h hybrid coupe, and LC500 V8 Convertible.
It's no surprise that the coupe is the best seller, but with just 70 LCs across the range delivered in 2023, this model remains a fairly rare sight on Australian roads.
In late 2023, Lexus updates the LC coupe and convertible for the first time in two years, resulting in price increases and new equipment across the lineup. We'll get to the price, but first, here are some of the standard features you can expect in this model.
LED headlights with dusk sensing function and automatic high beams, 21-inch forged alloy wheels, 13-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, head-up display, semi-aniline leather-accented front seats, power-adjustable steering column, sport pedals, heated steering wheel , 'easy access' front seat slide function, three-year Lexus Connected Services subscription, illuminated opening door handles, and more. See our pricing and specifications article for additional information.
The Lexus LC500 competes with the BMW 8 Series and the new Mercedes-Benz SL.
How much does a Lexus LC500 Convertible cost in Australia?
The Lexus LC500 range starts with the coupe, which starts at 204,635. Next in line is the hybrid, starting at $212,727, and finally, the convertible, which has a starting price of $218,242.
With the latest update in 2023, Lexus is raising prices across the board, with the flagship hybrid up $19,704. Both the entry-level coupe and convertible models are up $4704.
The upgrades on the flagship model are too high, which is due to Lexus now equipping it with equipment from the previously optional Enhancement Pack as standard – although the package remains a $15,000 extra on the LC500 coupe.
By comparison, the BMW 8 Series convertible is priced at $212,600 for the 3.0-liter 840i, while the Mercedes-AMG SL costs $374,900, albeit only in the AMG twin-turbo 430W version.
Note that the above prices do not include road charges.
Important details 202X
Price is $218,242 plus travel costs
Infrared test car color
Options None
Price as tested was $218,242 plus travel costs
Drive away price $242,684 (Melbourne)
Mercedes-AMG SL Rival | BMW 8 series
How much space does the Lexus LC500 Convertible have?
Simply put, there isn't much space. To be fair, this is a two-door sports car, so I don't think you're buying it for space and practicality.
However, there's enough space for two people, with plenty of legroom and ample storage up front. The front row gets two cup holders, which are best suited for coffee cups and smaller bottles, as larger, thicker drinks bottles won't work. What's more, the bin door is narrow, so a standard Mount Franklin water bottle can only fit sideways.
There's no charging pad, but instead a slim compartment where you can place your phone vertically. In terms of charging, you get two power outlets in the center console, which can be easily accessed by rear passengers.
The center compartment is large, but oddly not double-hinged, so passenger access is limited.
The back seat is a big question mark, it is better used as a storage shelf or place for your pet. It's nearly impossible to fit adults in the back unless they're sitting almost sideways, and front passengers are happy to put their feet under the glove box with their heads resting on the dash.
For the purposes of this review, I asked for a few willing volunteers to assess space and comfort, particularly the rear.
My brother, who is 193 centimeters tall, felt comfortable on the front passenger side, but to fit him, his seat was pushed to the second row of seats. My cousin is 175cm tall and sits behind me, which means I have to adjust my sitting position until I feel very unwell.
Legroom is tricky, but headroom is a bigger concern in the back, as the neck starts to hurt. To make the journey bearable, we had no choice but to open the roof and block out the raindrops.
So, road trips are better served by two adults, and the second row can serve as additional storage. I say this because the trunk is compact, offering 149L of cargo space.
For comparison, the SL offers 240L, while the 8 Series has 280L.
20 24 Lexus LC500 convertible
Seat Five
149L boots
Length 4770mm
Width 1920mm
Height 1350mm
Wheelbase 2870mm
Does Lexus LC500 Convertible have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
The Lexus LC500 gets Apple CarPlay, both wired and wireless, along with wired Android Auto. It also has DAB+ digital radio and Bluetooth connectivity.
Connecting your smartphone to Bluetooth or CarPlay is a quick and seamless process via the updated infotainment system.
This updated model comes with a new-generation 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen (up from 10.3 inches), along with a revised and excellent 13-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, plus a three-year subscription to Lexus Connected. Service. This allows owners to check recent trip history, fuel level and vehicle location, or open/close windows and unlock doors via a smartphone app.
The system is much more intuitive than the previous generation, eliminating the haptic touchpad and offering a much more user-friendly touchscreen. There's also an 8.0-inch digital instrument display, and while it doesn't look particularly modern, it's clear and easy to navigate.
Although Apple CarPlay connected smoothly, even after I restarted the car, it wasn't good news.
There have been countless instances where I've made phone calls via Apple CarPlay, (both wired and wireless), and the system has completely crashed. This is something that can't be fixed on the move, meaning I had to pull over and reboot the system, which took about five minutes.
My Spotify would come back on, but my phone calls wouldn't reconnect to the system, and the screen would freeze frequently. So there were many trips without taking a call, but there was a silver lining – enough time to enjoy the impressive stereo system. Luckily, this doesn't happen every day, just randomly over a three week period.
Another thing worth mentioning is the fact that not all functions are operated via the touchscreen. Lexus has kindly provided physical buttons and dials, something many manufacturers use on new vehicles. The climate control buttons are well placed, plus there's a volume knob, as well as buttons to access the seat and steering heaters.
Is the Lexus LC500 Convertible a safe car?
Like many sports cars, the Lexus LC500 has not been tested by ANCAP or Euro NCAP.
TAC's How Safe Is Your Car website rates the LC500 Convertible 7/10 for safety features at a glance.
What safety technologies does the Lexus LC500 Convertible have?
The Lexus LC500 is equipped with many standard safety features. These include a pre-collision safety system with pedestrian detection and autonomous emergency braking, active cruise control, road sign assist, (speed signs only), lane tracking assist, automatic high beams, blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert, six airbags , tire pressure monitoring, a 360-degree camera system and an active rollbar that deploys when a collision or rollover is detected.
The lane tracking assist isn't abrupt like most vehicles tend to forcefully pull you back into the lane, but instead beeps repeatedly. That's enough for me.
I found the automatic high beams to be a bit too active, tending to activate when I didn't need them. This is quite a meaningful function, but something I needed to be aware of when driving through city streets, which are dark but often busy.
The panoramic camera is excellent. Not only does it give you a close-up view, but there's also a video option that rotates the car, so you can see all angles from a bird's eye view. Interestingly, the color of the car can also be changed with 10 color choices available.
What's more, cruise control is easy to use on the steering wheel.
How much does it cost to maintain a Lexus LC500 Convertible?
Lexus provides a five-year vehicle warranty with no kilometer limits.
Scheduled maintenance is required every 12 months or 15,000 km, whichever comes first. Service is capped at $695, the equivalent of $3475 over five years or 75,000km.
When purchasing an LC500, customers gain access to the top-tier Lexus Encore Platinum benefits program which includes benefits such as free valet parking visits at select shopping centers Lexus loan vehicles on request in Australia and New Zealand (usage limits apply), Ampol fuel offers, exclusive events , auto loan services, and Lexus drive care, which provides 24-hour roadside assistance and basic mechanical assistance.
Meanwhile, to insure a Lexus LC500 convertible, our preferred insurance company quoted almost $6700 based on comparative quotes for a 35 year old man living in Chatswood, NSW. Insurance estimates will vary based on your location, driving history and personal circumstances.
20 24 Lexus LC500 convertible at a glance
Five year guarantee, unlimited km
Service interval 12 months or 15,000km
Service fee $1390 (3 years)
$3475 (5 years)
Is the Lexus LC500 Convertible fuel efficient?
With a large 82L fuel tank, I didn't spend as much time on the bowser as I expected.
Lexus quotes 12.7L/100km, and after I used the car, I averaged 13.8L/100km. That figure drops after a long highway stint, with a record low of 13.5L/100km.
My first refill cost close to $160, and I only had a quarter tank of gas left.
I didn't spend much time at all in Eco mode, but Sport and Sport+ modes certainly did the trick. Since I've had the car for three weeks, I've driven it in a variety of conditions, mainly in the city, but I've also done quite long stints on the motorway, including two trips from Melbourne to the Mornington Peninsula.
What's the Lexus LC500 Convertible like to drive?
The LC500 convertible joins the list of some of the most interesting and fun cars I've ever tested as an automotive journalist.
Unfortunately, I don't get to use the soft top as often as I'd like (thank you, Melbourne weather), but it's always nice to know that the option is just a push away.
The thrill of starting it every morning never fades, greeted by the harmonious rumble of the naturally aspirated 5.0-lite V8 engine. The engine and 10-speed automatic transmission are an exemplary combination, always smooth and refined, whether you're driving at low or high speeds.
The power is incredible, it's felt from the moment you step on the accelerator, and with 351kW and 540Nm, getting off the line and overtaking quickly is a breeze.
It's true, during takeoff, there were times when I had to glance at the speedometer to make sure I was in control. The power this car has is truly extraordinary, capable of accelerating from 40km/hour to 100km/hour without a hitch.
Having said that, it's a tourer and absolutely brilliant. Even if you just want to open it on the highway or a twisty back road, this car still offers great enjoyment just cruising along at 30km/h in first gear. Proof that this is an everyday driver's car – something you can enjoy on both long and short trips to the supermarket.
The V8 offers a scintillating exhaust note that emits from the engine and can still be heard with music playing. What's more, the cabin insulation is so impressive that you can easily carry on a conversation with passengers with the roof in place without having to raise your voice.
The build quality of this car is excellent, so it's no surprise that Lexus managed to perfect the soft top execution. With just the press of a button, the four-layer fabric cover takes just 15 seconds to unseal, and can be operated at speeds of up to 50 km/h.
With the roof in place, the sleek sporty design hampers rearward visibility, as the rear windshield is small. Plus, creating the perfect driving position doesn't take long, providing a great view over the hood as well as the side of the car.
The Lexus LC500 is equipped with five driving modes – Sport, Sport+, Normal, Comfort and Eco. The gear ratios are very tight, making it easy to stay in the engine's peak power range, but making it difficult to adhere to the 50km/h speed limit around town.
Take it out on the open road, however, and the Lexus will shine. At any speed and in any gear, the car offers a relentless power delivery.
What's more, the ride is sublime, with no noise or jolts on harder surfaces. In fact, ride handling is impressive for a performance-oriented car, and thrives on twisty roads.
The advanced traction control system lets you lean into corners with confidence, much more sharply than you'd expect in a 2000kg vehicle. However, with power injected from the rear, this car can squirm a bit when wet or when exiting a corner at too high a speed.
The car is equipped with an excellent head-up display, which shows your speed, speed sign recognition and rev limiter. Additionally, if you use the map function, directions will appear in your eyeline, showing turn-by-turn directions and the distance to the next turn.
It doesn't take long to get used to sitting low, as Lexus has mastered the execution of this tourer – a comfortable, luxurious and refined machine with a charmingly wild edge.
Important details 20 24 Lexus LC500 convertible
Engine 5.0 liter naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine
Power 351kW @ 7100rpm
Torque 540Nm @ 4800rpm
Drive type Rear wheel drive
Transmission 10-speed torque converter automatic
Power to weight ratio 170.8kW/t
Weight (curb) 2055kg
Spare tire type Tire repair package
Spinning a 10.8m circle
Should I buy a Lexus LC500 Convertible?
If you have money! It's no secret that this car is expensive, and many say it's too expensive for a Lexus. But don't forget that Lexus is a luxurious and reliable brand.
For a manufacturer known for its impeccable hybrid drivetrains, I applaud Lexus for offering something so unique in its product lineup. And this isn't just an afterthought; Instead, it's a well-executed and stylish vehicle that offers excellent drivability, a great engine, and great standard features.
If you can't afford a Mercedes-Benz SL or Porsche 911 but want something fun and performance-focused, I think you should give it a try.
How to buy a Lexus LC500 Convertible – next steps?
I tested the convertible for this review, and although it meets many of the criteria in terms of features, performance and style, it is the most expensive in the range.
As mentioned, the entry-level coupe is the best-seller in the lineup. So, if you're shopping for a stylish tourer with the ability to get a lot cheaper, then this is your choice. But only if you're willing to sacrifice the soft top and opt for a coupe.
Each Lexus LC500 convertible is built to order and generally takes around 6-12 months, depending on specifications.
2023 Lexus NX350 F Sport
When Kez first drove the new 2023 Lexus NX350 F Sport, he summed up its market position beautifully.
“With the new-generation 2022 Lexus NX350 F Sport, the Lexus brand is moving its SUV out of the space where you feel like you have to make excuses for it. That's not to say the old NX was particularly bad, but it struggled against stiff competition from BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz. It's never been more expansive, less tech-heavy, and less dynamic. With a new platform, new engines, and – finally – a new infotainment platform, Lexus has a competitor in the medium SUV class that can meet all needs.”
Specifically. Moreover, stiff competition is the hallmark of this luxury medium SUV segment. You can also add Genesis to the mix now, not to mention Jaguar, Alfa Romeo, Volvo, and Maserati, all vying for your attention and discerning eye for luxury. And, with what for many is the first step towards luxury ownership, there are also deep expectations from buyers.
There is no doubt that buyers have never had so many high-quality choices – and Lexus is no longer a viable replacement. Or the default option for those switching from mainstream offerings such as Mazda, Toyota, Kia, Hyundai, Honda, and Nissan.
So where does this segment stand today? The Audi Q5, BMW . just everyday practicality. This means that every fighter in this segment needs to provide more than just luxury.
Australians love medium SUVs, we know that. But with the love for this segment comes an aspirational outlook to venture further into the world of luxury, and thus, this segment has become more popular than ever. It also needs to provide everything the regular midsize SUV segment can – and more.
The 2023 Lexus NX350 F Sport is new, and better, and features significant improvements in important non-negotiable areas – one of which is infotainment. Let's find out if the new NX is truly ready for a luxury slugfest.
How much does a Lexus NX350 cost in Australia?
The Lexus NX350 F Sport starts from $77,511 before on-road costs, with the 2.4-litre non-hybrid version coming in one specification grade with a petrol engine and AWD. There is of course the petrol 2WD NX250 and the NX350h in 2WD and AWD trim, in Luxury, Sports Luxury, and F Sport trim. Step up to the top-of-the-line NX450+ F Sport plug-in hybrid and prices start at $90,984 before on-road costs.
With a long list of standard inclusions and no need to tick many option boxes, it's hard to argue with Lexus' value proposition. Prices spread across the NX model range range from $62,275 before on-road costs, to the aforementioned $90,948 before on-road costs.
Our tester had the Enhancement Package 2 added, which includes a panoramic sunroof, heated steering wheel, digital rearview mirror, and the excellent 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system for an extra $6000 (including on-road costs). The price details below reflect our testing of the NX, as well as indicative prices for a return trip to Sydney.
The 2.4-liter engine produces 205kW and 430Nm and drives through a conventional eight-speed automatic transmission. Despite the word Sport in the F Sport's name, it's honestly not a sporty SUV, with an engine that works hard enough without being particularly dynamic. The NX350 F Sport rarely feels like a fast SUV. The Sport S and Sport+ driving modes definitely enhance the driving experience, but you won't be fooled into thinking you're driving a proper sports car.
Standard features are plentiful, in line with Lexus guidelines, and highlights include red leather trim, a 10-way adjustable driver's seat, an eight-way adjustable for passengers, and heating and ventilation.
You also get 20-inch alloy wheels, a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen, an 8.0-inch driver display, a head-up display, a surround-view camera, wireless smartphone charging, adaptive suspension with F Sport performance dampers, F Sport pedals, shifter, steering wheel, and sill plates, tri-beam LED headlights with adaptive high beams, special aluminum trim, and selectable driving modes.
Important details of the 2023 Lexus NX350 F Sport
The price is $77,511 plus travel costs
The color of the test car is Graphite Black
Option Upgrade Package 2 – $4615.28
- Panoramic sunroof
- Heated steering wheel
- Digital rearview mirror
- 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system
Graphite Black Paint – $1346.16
The price as tested was $83,472 plus travel costs
Drive away price $93,365 (Sydney)
Audi Q5 rival | BMW X3 | Mercedes-Benz GLC
How much space does the Lexus NX350 have inside?
First, the electric door handles – or E-latches as Lexus calls them. I guess we can file it in the 'answers to questions no one asked' column. Of course, there are many more modern cars on that list, but I don't see any argument in favor of them.
Quieter than traditional latch and lever mechanisms? Yes. Do traditional styling mechanisms tend to interfere with the luxurious experience of driving a Lexus? No. However, once you get used to them, they become fairly intuitive, but you'd be hard-pressed to convince me that a modern car needs any more electronic complexity than it already has.
The cabin is perhaps the most important element in the running of any luxury vehicle. And as expected from Lexus, the NX350 F Sport delivers an exceptional cabin. Our tester had red leather trim, which some of you may like. Others may not, but that's a personal opinion.
Visibility is excellent, as are the seat and steering wheel adjustments, and the way you position yourself behind the wheel. The shorter among us will appreciate how you can jack up the seat to have plenty of visibility to the front and back.
For some time now, Lexus has been delivering seats that are some of the best in the business, and once again the NX delivers as well. The seats are well sculpted and comfortable, and you can go on long trips knowing you won't need a chiro at the other end. In fact, the 'Sport' in the F Sport is clearly visible in the seats, which have a bucket-shaped appearance and can hold you in place but are not so firm that they feel hard.
Storage is well catered for, especially considering its compact exterior dimensions. Up front, you get two cup holders, a conventional glove box, a center storage bin in the console, and a hidden storage section under the wireless charging pad. The latter can be recalled to access that storage.
I consider the NX to be a four-seat SUV, not a five-seat SUV, especially if you need to take teenagers or adults with you. There's space in the back, but once you get over six feet tall, things start to get cozy. Two child seats instead of three are also our recommendation for the second row.
Second-row passengers get air vents, twin USB-A charging ports, 12-volt sockets, and map pockets on the seatbacks. Temperature and air control would be an appreciated addition there.
The powered rear doors open to provide 520 liters of space with the rear seats up, or 1141L with the seats folded in a 60:40 split. It's a decent-sized space that can comfortably fit most of the items a busy family would need, with a flat lip and a pair of folding bag hooks located on the side.
Under the boot floor, there is a large space for storing additional items out of sight but there is no double-height boot floor. The run-flat tire specification means there's no spare space taking up boot space. Opening the rear door via the key fob is easy enough, and the kick-to-open function works, but it's not something I've used much outside of testing so it works as it should.
2023 Lexus NX 350 F Sport
Seat Five
Seat 520L boot volume up,
1141L seats fold down
Length 4660mm
Width 1865mm
Height 1670mm
Wheelbase 2690mm
Does Lexus NX350 have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
The new model is most apparent when you're inside the cabin and interacting with the infotainment system. This new system is a major improvement over the old, complicated, and outdated system, which we have repeatedly rated poorly over the years. Thankfully that system is now just a memory.
The 14-inch touchscreen display in the F Sport is combined with sharp graphics and the response is also fast. To give you an idea of how good it is, and how much processing power it has, when you use the 360-degree camera system, changes are instantaneous and the area under the car (shown as a see-through wire frame) is already mapped and cached, readily used.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are both standard, Apple users can connect via wired or wireless connection, but Android users can only connect via wired access. When I have wireless smartphone connectivity, I tend to charge my phone wirelessly as well, and I'm not a fan of cooking expensive smartphones with wireless charging pads. All of them seem to make the phone heat up, so the option to plug it in is welcome.
Also standard is DAB, satellite navigation, Bluetooth, and a three-year subscription to the Lexus Connected service for access to connected navigation, and Lexus Remote Connect which allows users to lock and unlock the doors and tailgate, start or stop the engine, locate the car. , activate the horn or headlights, or adjust the climate control remotely.
Our test NX was equipped with the optional Enhancement Pack 2, which replaces the quality 10-speaker system with an excellent Mark Levinson-branded 17-speaker system. It delivers clear, powerful sound at any volume, and we think it's worth upgrading to.
The 8.0-inch digital driver instrument display – smaller than the larger screens in some major competitors – displays important information, but it doesn't have the multi-format, customizable display modes of the Audi or Mercedes-Benz.
Across the Drive team, we're partial to the new touch-trace steering wheel controls. When you move your finger over the unmarked D-pad on each side of the steering wheel, the head-up display will show you where you are and what it does. Page buttons underneath allow each pad to be switched between the two sets of functions.
You might think that this is a useful addition, and the theory is that it helps you keep your eyes on the road, but each function requires a double click – one to activate and another to confirm. If you don't lift your finger, you can do one press at a time, but otherwise, we found the system unresponsive and difficult to function.
What safety technologies does the Lexus NX350 have?
All NX models have the same suite of active and passive safety technologies, which include autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection and intersection turn assist, so AEB can intervene if it detects a vehicle turning into traffic.
Other technologies included include safe exit assist to prevent the door from opening to cyclists or traffic, emergency steering assist, road sign assist and radar active cruise control, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keeping assist and lane tracing, front. and rear parking sensors, parking buffer with brake, 360-degree camera, and 10 airbags.
I like how the Lexus safety system works, and the NX is no different. They do what they do, mostly in the background, without interrupting the driving enjoyment in any distracting way. Many other manufacturers could learn a thing or two in this regard. Lexus' lane-keeping assist system is excellent, and blind-spot monitoring also worked well in testing.
How much does it cost to maintain a Lexus NX350?
As with the entire Lexus range, the NX350 F Sport is covered by a five-year unlimited kilometer warranty as well as five years of roadside assistance. Lexus includes three years of access to Encore's ownership benefits program which includes rewards, event offers, and fuel discounts. When it comes to accessible luxury, the Encore program is a clear example of making shoppers feel good about their purchase after the fact.
Three years of capped-price service is available and priced at $495 per visit (12-month/15,000km intervals), but also includes vehicle pick-up and drop-off, or a service loaner vehicle.
The Lexus NX350 F Sport will set you back $2676.68 for comprehensive insurance per year, based on a comparative quote for a 35-year-old male driver living in Chatswood, NSW. Insurance estimates may vary based on your location, driving history, and personal circumstances.
2023 Lexus NX350 F Sport at a Glance
Five-year guarantee, unlimited km
Service interval 12 months or 15,000km
Service fee $1485 (3 years)
Is the Lexus NX350 fuel efficient?
Lexus quotes an official fuel consumption of 8.1 liters per 100 kilometers on the combined cycle. Despite being an all-new engine, the 2.4-liter turbo doesn't come with any mild-hybrid assistance (although Lexus has a more frugal full-hybrid lineup in the NX350h model) but does come with stop-start technology.
That consumption rises to 10.1L/100km after a long period of idling with the engine running for filming and photography, but in our regular round of testing the NX350 F Sport consumed 9.2L/100km. If you're after the lowest fuel consumption figures you can get, the NX350h – with hybrid technology – is the model to buy.
What's the Lexus NX350 like to drive?
That Lexus has met the luxury requirements is undeniable. The brand has been synonymous with it since its launch in the country. Therefore, the cabin experience, and indeed the driving experience, is premium, isolated, and quiet. For many of you, that alone defines a luxury driving experience. In line with the F Sport logo, the NX experience is not just about cabin quality.
The NX350 F Sport also has good performance under the hood. The 2.4-liter turbocharged petrol engine feels generally underpowered and produces 205kW and 430Nm. The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic and smooth AWD, and while there's no hybrid technology on this model, it's still an efficient combination in the real world. Of course, it won't match the NX hybrid for fuel use in traffic, but on the open road, it's still impressive.
Don't expect the NX to be a sports car replacement, and frankly, a medium SUV shouldn't have to tick that box. It's more of a family cruiser – with a little more pep – than a fast SUV. Everything about the driving experience feels isolated, even when you press the throttle pedal. It doesn't cruise forward like a sporty SUV, but it rides waves of torque and gathers speed gracefully.
The ride quality is excellent. The NX is very well-tuned to handle poor road surfaces like most of you will experience in the city. The balance between firmness and composure when you're turning corners, and ride quality when the NX needs to soak up bumps, is noteworthy. There's basically no situation where the NX350 F Sport feels uncomfortable. Considering the NX uses run-flat tires, it's impressive how well they can protect cabin occupants from bad surfaces.
You can of course manipulate the ride settings, and the adaptive suspension is tweaked using the drive modes, which can be switched to Sport S and Sport S+ modes to stiffen the steering and suspension. The mode also subtly changes shift response, and makes the eight-speed automatic transmission more lively, but doesn't completely change the NX's character. For me, keep the suspension in Comfort mode.
Important 2023 Lexus NX350 F Sport details
2.4-liter four-cylinder turbo petrol engine
Power 205kW @ 6000rpm
Torque 430Nm @ 1700–3600rpm
Drive Type wheel drive
Transmission 8-speed torque converter automatic
Power to weight ratio 110.2kW/t
Weight (curb) 1860kg
Spare tire type None (standard run-flat tire)
Tow rating 1000kg braked
750kg unbraked
Turning a circle 11.6m
Should I buy a Lexus NX350?
This is a very good luxury SUV – and in many ways that goes without saying. But after a week behind the wheel, and considering the best in the segment, Lexus is on top with the new NX. In non-hybrid F Sport form, it still makes a strong case, delivering fuel efficiency on par with, or better than, some rivals that can't offer the same savings in the real world.
Whether the Lexus NX's qualities are enough to lure those who appreciate the value of European badges away from them is really beside the point. If you're looking for a mid-sized luxury SUV, the Lexus NX should be on your hit list. Look at a hybrid if you want outright efficiency, but it's hard to argue with the overall capability and quality of the Lexus NX.
How to buy a Lexus NX350 – next steps?
We've tested the Lexus NX350 F Sport for this review, and the fact that the NX range is well-defined makes choosing your preferred model a little more tricky. You should also consider the NX hybrid if saving on fuel will make a real difference to your budget. The NX250 2WD is a strong choice, and the lineup then passes through the NX350 AWD, NX350h 2WD, and NX350h AWD, before culminating in the NX450h+ AWD.
Stock shortages continue to be an issue at the time of writing, and Lexus isn't completely immune, although the picture is the best it's been since before the COVID-19 pandemic. I talked to Lexus, and it says the lead time for the non-hybrid NX250 and NX30 is about 2–4 months, which is back to normal, even before COVID-19.
As a guide, the wait time for the NX350h has been cut drastically, to around 5–7 months, which is the best wait time in years. The NX450h+ plug-in hybrid is still delayed by more than 24 months, so Lexus has only expressed interest in the model until the lead time is more suitable.
The next step in the buying journey is to check the Lexus website for stock of your chosen NX variant, whether it's a hybrid or with a conventional powertrain. You can also find Lexus models for sale at Drive.com.au/cars-for-sale.
We highly recommend taking a test drive at the dealer before committing as personal needs and tastes can vary. Find your nearest Lexus dealer via this link. We also recommend testing the NX hybrid variant, especially if you want to save as much fuel as possible. Also check out the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Mercedes-Benz GLC.
2023 Lexus RC F Sport
For the 2023 model year, Lexus has announced that the RC coupe and higher-performance versions of the RC F will receive several updates, including standard safety features and optional infotainment, display, and performance packages. Both versions will get a price increase for an additional $1,000 (Rp 15 million) from the base RC price while the base model RC F is only $375 up.
The update comes to the more comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, which includes pre-collision with pedestrian detection, detection of low-light pedestrians and cyclists during the day, left-turn intersection support, lane departure warning with steering assist, automatic intelligent high beam assist , enhanced radar cruise control, lane tracing assist, and road sign assist technology.
For 2023, the RC model gets a slightly updated interior on the instrument panel. 10.3 inch touchscreen display is now available (8 inch standard). Additionally, the RC model gets the option of the F Sport appearance package which includes a bi-tone exterior color with Incognito (gray) body color combined with the roof and hood in Obsidian finished and dark 19-inch Enkei alloy wheels.
Power remains the same as the RC 300's 2.0-liter turbo engine which produces 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Meanwhile, there is also the option of a 3.5-liter V6 engine with all-wheel drive producing 260 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. The RC 350 only has the option of a V6 engine that produces 311 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque in either all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive variants.
The RC F will have the option of a Track Edition package which includes features such as a bonnet, roof, carbon fiber rear wing, unique black and blue Alcantara interior trim, Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes, Hitachi shocks, and will be available in an Incognito body color. RC F still uses the Lexus V8 engine which produces 472 hp.
A carbon package option will also be available and includes a carbon fiber roof, rear bumper, front lip spoiler and air dam, door lower molding, retractable rear wing spoiler and 19-inch matte black alloy wheels. The interior includes carbon fiber trim and the addition of the Lexus Intuitive Parking Assist feature. The 2023 RC and RC F models are expected to be available at dealerships earlier this year. [ibd/zz/timBX] various sources
