The Production Lexus NX Isn't As Vomit-Inducing As The Concept

When we saw the Lexus LF-NX concept at the Frankfurt motor show last year, we weren't all that impressed. In a bid to make it striking, it looked as though Lexus had crossed a Nissan Juke with a Lamborghini LM002 SUV, and then beaten it with an ugly stick. Fortunately, the production-ready version is a little easier on the eye.

The luxury Toyota division may have gone a little too far the other way, as the car you'll be seeing in Lexus showrooms is a bit on the bland side. That said, the front is still imposing - it needs to stand out, as it'll be taking on very established rivals like the Audi Q5 and BMW X3. It gets Lexus' Predator-like spindle grille present, backed up by some very frowny headlights.

As for engines, the NX300h gets the same hybrid petrol powertrain as the IS, a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-pot in the NX200t, and a naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre in the NX200. All cars will be available in either front- or four-wheel drive.

The interior looks to be a pleasant space, with Lexus having aimed to make it "like a sports car." It comes with useful features like a charging tray for mobile devices, which is handy if you want to keep your phone charged and ready for idiotic car selfies.

Expect the NX to go on sale in the UK later this year. It'll make its world debut at the Beijing motor show on 20th April.