Toyota can go either way.

Ultimately, Lexus is going to use a variant for the NX.

Hybrid would be a great "lifestyle" choice like the CT. Will a V6 NX cannibalize RX sales figures?

Which would you prefer?

DISCUSS.

 

I say hybrid. I'd like to see ~220hp and ~38 mpg.

 

Hybrid all the way. How popular was the V6 Rav4, outside of enthusiast forums such as this one? It's funny to think that it was the fastest in Toyotas lineup when it was around, but I don't think that was a priority to buyers in this segment. Figuring the sales success of the CT, hybrid NX is also no-brainer.

 

I guess I'm in the minority here as I would prefer a conventional V6 (using a 2GR engine)

 

I vote both. I like having more choices, an option for every niche.

 

But manufacturers, especially Toyota, hate variations.

 

I agree. Personally, I'd rather see the V6, but, given the upcoming CAFE/emissions standards, and the demographics of many RAV4 buyers, hybrid and conventional fours probably make more overall buisness/marketing sense.

True, that may be the best solution in some ways, but obviously one of the more expensive ones. And the actual sales-numbers of the V6 would not only be questionable, but might also actually rob some sales from the V6 Highlander.

 

But the NX is getting a hybrid powertrain option. NX300h. Plus NX200t. I don't think you'll see the V6 in either vehicle with a slated turbo set-up.

 

The handwriting is on the wall - fuel efficiency to meet CAFE standards is the direction everyone will go. One possibility is that the NX will by hybrid only like the CT. That alone differentiates it from the RAV4 and justifies Lexus pricing. Lexus strategy for Europe is to use the hybrids so there will be one in the NX. My only question now is will there be a base engine.
Steve

 

we already know :-)

Lexus has protected NX300h and NX200t.

So 2.0 Turbo and 300h.

300h will have between 200 and 220hp, and 2.0 Turbo? Who knows... it will probably have economy minded version with some 200hp too... and they can also have 220-280hp performance version, who really knows? :-).

 

^This

v6 > turbo 4

Sad to see the V6 is being replaced ...

 

For a small entry level SUV like the NX, I'd imagine most prospective buyers would be prioritising fuel efficiency. So hybrid it is.

 

I suspect the ....300h hybrid engine is going to end up as the workhorse in Toyota/Lexus seeing as it might end up in the IS300h, the GS300h and the NX300h.

Sort of like the 2GR-FE/FSE V6 block ended up being almost ubiquitous in the Toyota/Lexus line-up.

 

I wouldn't mind a four cylinder, if it didn't sound like one. The worst thing about my CT loaner was the sound of the engine. Didn't lend a Lexus feel at all. A 2.0T would sound better, as it does in the Germans.

 

With a powerful enough hybrid the NX might be the future replacement for my RX 450h.