The Lexus NX 200t AWD Automatic, produced between March 2015 and November 2017, represents the entry point into the first generation (AZ10) of Lexus’s compact luxury crossover SUV. Positioned as a competitor to vehicles like the Acura RDX and BMW X3, the NX 200t aimed to attract buyers seeking a blend of luxury, technology, and reasonable fuel efficiency. This variant utilized a turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, offering a balance between performance and practicality within the NX lineup. It served as the foundation for the NX range, with higher trims offering larger engines and more opulent features.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | NX |
| Generation | NX I (AZ10) |
| Type (Engine) | 200t (238 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | March, 2015 |
| End of production | November, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 10.4 l/100 km (22.6 US mpg, 27.2 UK mpg, 9.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 183 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 b |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp, 131.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 193.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 238 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 119.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1650 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1650 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 5700 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 8AR-FTS |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC – dual VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.9 l (5.18 US qt | 4.31 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.9 l (8.35 US qt | 6.95 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1810 kg (3990.37 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2350 kg (5180.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 540 kg (1190.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 555 l (19.6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1600 l (56.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4630 mm (182.28 in.) |
| Width | 1845 mm (72.64 in.) |
| Height | 1645 mm (64.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2660 mm (104.72 in.) |
| Front track | 1580 mm (62.2 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1580 mm (62.2 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 185 mm (7.28 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 225/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Lexus NX 200t, launched in 2015, marked Lexus’s entry into the burgeoning compact luxury crossover segment. Built on the Toyota/Lexus New Global Architecture (NGGA-K platform, internally designated AZ10), the NX aimed to attract a younger demographic to the Lexus brand. The 200t variant, equipped with the 8AR-FTS 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, served as the volume seller, offering a balance of performance, fuel economy, and luxury features. It was positioned below the NX 300h hybrid model in the lineup.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the NX 200t is the 8AR-FTS, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes a twin-scroll turbocharger with intercooling, direct fuel injection (D-4S technology), and a dual Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) system. The engine produces 238 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque at 1650 rpm. The six-speed automatic transmission, while providing smooth shifts, was a point of criticism for some reviewers who felt it lacked the responsiveness of newer eight or ten-speed units. The transmission is designed for comfort and efficiency rather than outright performance. The all-wheel-drive system employs a center differential to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction in various driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The NX 200t AWD delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 6.7 seconds. While not a sports SUV, the turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power, making merging onto highways and overtaking maneuvers relatively effortless. The six-speed automatic transmission, however, can sometimes feel hesitant during quick downshifts. Compared to the NX 300h hybrid, the 200t offers a more traditional driving experience with a more immediate throttle response. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a smooth ride over most road surfaces, but it doesn’t offer the same level of handling precision as some of its European competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The NX 200t came standard with a generous array of features, including Lexus Safety System+, which included Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert, and Automatic High Beams. Interior features included a 7-inch infotainment display, Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and leatherette upholstery. Available options included a Mark Levinson premium sound system, a larger 10.3-inch infotainment display with navigation, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power rear door. Trim levels typically included base, Premium, and Luxury packages, with each successive trim adding more features and refinement.
Chassis & Braking
The NX 200t utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double wishbone rear suspension. The suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, prioritizing smoothness over sporty handling. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) are standard. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assist, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lexus NX 200t was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, luxurious interior, and comprehensive safety features. However, the six-speed automatic transmission and the somewhat conservative styling were points of criticism. Compared to the NX 300h hybrid, the 200t offered a lower price point but sacrificed some fuel efficiency. Against competitors like the Acura RDX and BMW X3, the NX 200t offered a compelling value proposition, particularly in terms of reliability and Lexus’s renowned customer service.
Legacy
The NX 200t’s 8AR-FTS engine and six-speed automatic transmission have proven to be relatively reliable, with few widespread mechanical issues reported. The engine is known for its durability, and the transmission, while not the most advanced, is generally dependable. On the used car market, the NX 200t represents a good value for buyers seeking a luxury crossover with a proven track record. Its combination of comfort, features, and reliability makes it a popular choice among used car shoppers. While superseded by the newer NX 300 and NX 350 models, the first-generation NX 200t remains a competitive option in its price range.
