Lexus gears up to challenge the Evoque with the LF-NX Concept

Following Range Rover’s runaway success with the Evoque it was inevitable that other premium car makers would follow suit with their own highly-stylised mid-sized SUVs, this is Lexus’ response – the LF-NX, albeit a crossover rather than fully functioning off-roader.

Due to make its debut at next week’s Frankfurt Motor Show, the LF-NX is said to “explore the potential for this kind of vehicle in the Lexus model range,” so in other words they intend to produce it, unless of course everybody hates it. Which we don’t, right..?

It’s powered by a variation of Lexus full hybrid drive powertrain, tuned for SUV performance and features a number of design innovations. It’s styling reflects a further evolution of the L-finesse design language, which combines the concepts of ‘leading edge’ with ‘finesse’ and is characterised by the visual aggression of its spindle grille.

From the side, the LF-NX presents a coupé-like silhouette with a steeply raking tailgate and muscular wheel arches.

The rear features a sharp, aerodynamic trailing edge articulated by the tail lights which project down the full depth of the bumper. The effect is amplified by the brushed metal silver exterior finish which makes the car look like it’s been carved from a single piece of solid metal.

The Evoque is a tough act to follow, even though the baby Range Rover is far from perfect, but Lexus clearly believe they’re on to a winner.

The LF-NX features what Lexus call a “Human Oriented interior” with touch-sensitive electrostatic switches and a new touchpad remote touch interface. The dashboard is divided between an upper display zone and lower operation zone, a format which is reflected across other models in the Lexus range.

Look out for further details when it’s launched next Tuesday at 13:00 CET.