Lexus committed to turbo option for future models

lexus-nx-driven-38

The Lexus NX was the first model by the premium automaker to feature a turbocharged engine. Since then, several other models in Lexus’ line-up has followed suit, including the IS, RX, RC and GS. According to Automotive News, this turbocharged progression looks set to continue into the future.

Although the move to adopt turbocharged engines is driven by stricter fuel economy and emissions standards, the term is also associated with luxury. “What ‘turbo’ says to the typical consumer is you’re modern,” said Brian Bolain, Lexus marketing manager.

“People hear ‘turbo,’ and even for someone who doesn’t know or couldn’t explain how it works, they know it’s something good and they know they want one,” he continued. German brands like Mercedes-Benz, Audi and BMW are heavily involved in the usage of turbocharged engines in their vehicles. “When the consumer is doing their side-by-side comparison online, it gives you parity,” Bolain said of adding turbos.

The NX 200t in Malaysia features a 2.0 litre in-line four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that makes 235 hp and 350 Nm of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox and an on-demand Dynamic Torque Control AWD system. Other 200t variants available to Malaysians inlude the RX and IS.

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Gerard Lye

Originating from the corporate world with a background in finance and economics, Gerard’s strong love for cars led him to take the plunge into the automotive media industry. It was only then did he realise that there are more things to a car than just horsepower count.

 

Comments

  • Kenneth Fook on Jan 04, 2016 at 2:24 pm

    The only thing lexus is committed of is being 2 steps behind. Just like what it did with the IS. Not turbocharging that unit was a silly move in the first place. They are repeating it in the RX350. Should have been a turbo 3 litres. Not the same lazy 3.5 that lexus salesman calls it a new engine simply by uptuning the engine. Lexus plays it safe all the time by simply telling customer is is a reliable car. Heck, if german would have took the same approach in making its vehicles, the car would be 10x more reliable.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 29
    • They even try to down-sizing the Harrier to 2.0 liters NA, hahahaha

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 27
  • Cars r us on Jan 04, 2016 at 3:49 pm

    Notice how lexus owners like to compare their cars with merc, audi and bmw, telling everyone that it is a better car for various trivial reasons? On the other hand owners of bmw, merc or audi never wonder how their cars are compared to lexus. That’s quite funny. This shows buying lexus always gets you a niggling sense of regret and inferiority despite paying such high prices.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 31
    • Cars r us on Jan 04, 2016 at 9:22 pm

      The truth hurts right? Lexus owners always make lengthy comparisons with bmw, audi and merc, but merc, audi and bmw owners never wonder what owning a lexus feels like.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 3
    • Sammy Loo on Jan 05, 2016 at 11:36 pm

      Most Lexus owners are upgrading from Merc, BMW or Audi and those that did not own a Lexus will go to buy Merc, BMW or Audi and think that Lexus is only a glorified Toyota. Later on they will be those that switch and maintain with Lexus and telling the folks how good Lexus is compared to the German marques.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
 

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