It is no secret that Lexus is working on a compact SUV; the controversial LF-NX concept has been doing the rounds of motor shows since November. However, it seems images of the production version were accidentally leaked in a presentation by Toyota's CEO of the North American Region, Jim Lentz.
Whilst giving the keynote address to the Society of Automotive Analysts ahead of the Detroit Auto Show Lentz discussed the company's upcoming products. The LF-NX concept was mentioned but the accompanying slide showed a similar but more production ready vehicle. Gone are the strange angles and sharp edges in favour of a smoother look and simpler front grille.
Lexus is expected to show the production model, mooted to be badged the NX, at the Geneva Motor Show in March, with the first vehicles reaching showrooms in the autumn.
Toyota has trademarked the NX 200t designation, confirming expectations that power will come from a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine. There will also be a hybrid NX 300h model. The NX is based on the same platform as the Toyota RAV4 and will be front-wheel drive as standard with all-wheel drive available as an option.
Anything else?
Two other designations have also been trademarked, GS 200t and RC 200t, suggesting that the four-cylinder turbo engine from the NX will appear in other Lexus models in time.