Compact crossovers with a little bit of luxury are the new darlings of the automotive industry, as they give buyers the amenities they expect while delivering improved fuel economy (compared to their larger siblings).
A concept version of this new Lexus crossover is expected to be previewed at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show at the end of this year, with the production version to debut shortly after, possibly at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show in March.
Automotive News (subscription required) is reporting that a hybrid version of the new crossover will be offered, which ties in with previous trademark filings made by Lexus for the “NX 200t” and “NX 300h” names.
This suggests that the new crossover will be labeled an NX and its hybrid system will be similar to that already offered in the 2013 Lexus ES 300h and the 2014 Lexus IS 300h sold overseas. This hybrid system pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine in parallel with an electric motor, and develops between 200 and 240 horsepower.
Expect power in the potential NX 200t to come from a turbocharged four-cylinder.
Sales of the new Lexus compact crossover should commence midway through next year, making it a 2015 model.
