The Evolution of The Lexus LX, NX, and UX

Lexus

Lexus, Toyota’s luxury division, has established itself as a leader in the premium SUV market through its innovative design, advanced technology, and reliable performance. Among its lineup, the Lexus LX, NX, and UX models have undergone significant evolution since their inception, reflecting changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and corporate strategies. This article explores the detailed history of these models, including production years, model variants, and trim levels.

Lexus LX Series: The Large Luxury SUV

Introduction and Early Years (1996–Present)

The Lexus LX series is the flagship luxury SUV of the brand, renowned for its rugged capability combined with opulent comfort. It is essentially a luxury version of the Toyota Land Cruiser, sharing much of its platform and drivetrain.

First Generation LX (1996–2007)

  • Introduction: The first-generation Lexus LX, designated as LX 470, was introduced in 1996 as a rebadged Toyota Land Cruiser 100 Series.
  • Production Years: 1996–2007
  • Key Features:
  • Engine: 4.7L V8 (1UZ-FE)
  • Transmission: 4-speed automatic
  • Drivetrain: Full-time 4WD
  • Body Styles: 5-door SUV
  • Trim Levels: Initially offered as a single trim, later versions included Luxury and Sport packages.

Model Variants and Trims:

  • LX 470 Standard
  • LX 470 Sport Package (added sportier styling and wheels)
  • LX 470 Luxury Package (upholstery upgrades, premium features)

Second Generation LX (2008–2021)

  • Introduction: The second-generation LX was introduced in 2008, based on the Toyota Land Cruiser 200 Series.
  • Production Years: 2008–2021
  • Design and Features:
  • Engine: 5.7L V8 (1UR-FE)
  • Transmission: 6-speed automatic
  • Advanced off-road capabilities with Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control
  • Luxurious interior with options like Mark Levinson audio, leather upholstery, and advanced safety features

Model Variants and Trim Levels:

  • LX 570 Standard
  • LX 570 Ultra Luxury (introduced in later years with added amenities)
  • Special Editions: F Sport trims (offered in certain markets with sportier styling and suspension tuning)

Third Generation LX (2022–Present)

  • Introduction: The latest LX, currently in its third iteration, debuted in 2021 as a 2022 model.
  • Production Years: 2022–Present
  • Design and Features:
  • Platform: New TNG-A platform, sharing components with the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series
  • Powertrain: 3.5L twin-turbo V6 hybrid system (standard in some markets) replacing the V8
  • Luxury and off-road capabilities retained, with enhanced technology and safety features like Lexus Safety System+ 2.0
  • Interior: Larger cabin, upgraded materials, and new infotainment system

Model Variants and Trims:

  • Lexus LX 600 (name change from LX 570 in some markets)
  • Luxury
  • Ultra Luxury
  • F Sport (sport-oriented trim with unique styling and suspension tuning)

Lexus NX Series: The Compact Luxury SUV

Introduction and Early Years (1998–Present)

The Lexus NX is a compact luxury SUV, introduced to compete in the rapidly growing urban SUV segment. It emphasizes urban practicality, fuel efficiency, and luxury.

First Generation NX (2014–2023)

  • Introduction: The first-generation NX was launched globally in 2014, built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA).
  • Production Years: 2014–2023
  • Design and Features:
  • Powertrains: 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder, 2.5L hybrid
  • Transmission: 6-speed automatic (gas), eCVT (hybrid)
  • FWD and AWD options
  • Features: Lexus Enform, premium interior options, advanced safety

Model Variants and Trim Levels:

  • NX 200t / NX 300 (turbocharged models)
  • NX 300h (hybrid)
  • F SPORT (sportier styling and suspension)
  • Base, Premium, Luxury trims (varied by market)
  • Special Editions: Black Line, Sport Design packages

Second Generation NX (2022–Present)

  • Introduction: The second-generation NX was unveiled in 2021 as a 2022 model, featuring a radical design overhaul and new technology.
  • Design and Features:
  • Platform: TNGA-K
  • Powertrains: 2.5L hybrid (NX 350h), 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder (NX 350), plug-in hybrid variants (NX 450h+)
  • Interior: Larger screens, digital instrument cluster, enhanced driver-assistance tech
  • Safety: Lexus Safety System+ 3.0

Model Variants and Trims:

  • NX 350
  • NX 350h (Hybrid)
  • NX 450h+ (Plug-in Hybrid)
  • F SPORT
  • Luxury
  • Executive trims in certain markets

.

Many car aficionados have multiple hobbies, like boating as well as auto stuff. Those who don’t already own a boat (and even some that do), may have thought about building their own boats. It’s really not as hard as you’d think. Just take a look at these easy boat building plans!

.

Lexus UX Series: The Subcompact Luxury SUV

Introduction and Early Years (2018–Present)

The Lexus UX represents the brand’s entry into the subcompact luxury SUV segment, blending urban agility with premium features.

First Generation UX (2018–2023)

  • Introduction: Launched globally in 2018, built on the TNGA platform, emphasizing efficiency and style.
  • Production Years: 2018–2023
  • Design and Features:
  • Powertrains: 2.0L inline-4 hybrid (UX 250h), 2.0L turbocharged gas engine
  • Transmission: eCVT (hybrid), 6-speed automatic (gas)
  • FWD and AWD options
  • Modern interior with extensive use of digital displays and driver-assistance features

Model Variants and Trim Levels:

  • UX 200 (gas)
  • UX 250h (hybrid)
  • F SPORT (sportier styling and suspension)
  • Base, Premium, Luxury trims
  • Special Editions: Black Line and other aesthetic packages

Second Generation UX (Upcoming/Planned)

As of 2023, Lexus announced updates and potential new variants for the UX, focusing on increased electrification, including possible all-electric variants in the future.

Summary of Key Developments

ModelYears ProducedNotable Variants/Trims
Lexus LX1996–PresentLX 470, LX 570, LX 600, Ultra Luxury, F Sport
Lexus NX2014–2023NX 200t, NX 300h, NX 350, NX 450h+, F SPORT, Luxury
Lexus UX2018–PresentUX 200, UX 250h, F SPORT, Luxury

Conclusion

Over the past few decades, Lexus has evolved its LX, NX, and UX models to adapt to changing market demands, technology, and environmental considerations. The LX series remains the pinnacle of luxury and off-road capability, with recent models emphasizing hybrid and hybrid-electric powertrains. The NX has grown from a compact SUV to a midsize contender with hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, reflecting the shift toward electrification. The UX, as the subcompact entry, has pushed the boundaries of urban luxury, with a focus on efficiency and modern design.

Lexus continues to innovate, integrating cutting-edge safety systems, hybrid technology, and luxurious amenities across its lineup. The ongoing development of these models promises further advancements, maintaining Lexus’s reputation for reliability, luxury, and performance.

Similar Posts