Lexus created a huge buzz with the introduction of the stylish and edgy NX a new introduction to the Lexus line-up. Since then the NX has managed to remain among the top favourites in the compact luxury SUV segment. At the recently concluded 2015 Middle East Car of the Year Awards (MECOTY), Lexus underlined its significant appeal and credentials in the fast-expanding compact luxury segment as its popular luxury crossover, the NX200t, took home the award for ‘Best Compact Premium SUV’. The Lexus NX200t was chosen for the coveted accolade by a jury of 14 independent motoring journalists from leading automotive publications throughout the Middle East.

Nominees for the ‘Best Compact Premium SUV’ were rated across 10 different attributes including design & quality (exterior & interior), handling and drivability, safety & durability, performance & capability, technological innovation, emotional appeal & driver satisfaction, value for money (new purchase & resale), environmental friendliness, regional appeal, comfort & practicality

Considered among the biggest and most prestigious awards in the regional automotive sector, Middle East Car of the Year Awards follows a fair and transparent nomination in addition to a scoring methodology which is developed, tested and implemented by the most experienced ‘motoring minds’ of the industry.

“The Lexus NX200t continues to earn widespread acclaim for being a genuine all-rounder that sets a new benchmark in the luxury crossover segment. With its head-turning sporty design, outstanding performance and drivability, and best-in-class safety and comfort features – complemented by Lexus’ matchless reliability – the NX is an elegant and emphatic expression of time-honoured Lexus design and engineering prowess,” said Takayuki Yoshitsugu, Chief Representative of Middle East & North Africa Representative Office, Toyota Motor Corporation. “We are delighted that the NX200t has emerged triumphant at this year’s MECOTY Awards. It’s a proud moment for us and we thank our customers for their support and loyalty in making Lexus one of the most aspirational luxury automotive brands in the Middle East.”

Having pioneered the luxury-utility crossover category more than a decade ago with the original midsized RX300, Lexus disrupted the SUV segment once again with the all-new NX. The turbocharged NX combines the expertise of racers within the engineering team and the impeccable touch of Lexus luxury through an exciting and sporty design to set a new benchmark in the automotive world.

For its first-ever turbocharged gasoline engine, Lexus created all-new engine architecture. The 2.0-liter, four-cylinder port and direct-injection turbo engine uses an advanced valve control system to switch between Atkinson cycle and Otto cycle operation to optimize performance.

The NX with all-weather drive introduces Dynamic Torque Control AWD to provide maximum traction and cornering stability. The system continuously controls torque transfer between the front and rear wheels, using sensors for vehicle speed, steering angle, steering speed, throttle angle and yaw rate.

The NX’s array of technology innovations sets new standards for future Lexus models. It features the first application of a new Lexus Remote Touch Interface (RTI) with a touch pad. A highly visible and easy-to-understand navigation screen enables users to confirm a range of information at a glance.

The NX is the first Lexus to offer a Qi Wireless Charging Tray inside the console box: just placing a compatible smartphone or tablet in the tray will recharge its battery.

The look and feel of Lexus luxury detail begins before you enter the NX. A single LED elegantly streams a welcoming beam of light along the top of the handle and also to the ground as the driver approaches the vehicle. The cabin design combines structural elements with luxurious yet functional materials and textures. A neat-looking switch layout and aesthetic surfaces epitomize the NX’s interior concept – “traditional luxury accentuated by simple functional beauty”.

The Lexus NX comes with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features. The Panoramic View Monitor, introduced into a Lexus vehicle for the first time, helps the driver avoid other vehicles and pedestrians approaching from the sides. Frontal and side collision protection measures on the NX include the use of high tensile steel, across the centre-pillar hinge reinforcement, outer rockers and roof cross-members. The NX has twelve SRS airbags, including a dual stage driver’s airbag and knee airbag, dual-stage and dual-chamber front passenger airbag, front side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags, and offers the Lexus Pre-Collision Safety System (PCS) which uses the all-speed Adaptive Cruise Control system’s millimetre-wavelength radar sensor to detect vehicles and other obstacles.

The F SPORT variant promises a special driving experience with its aggressive looks such as a grille that’s even bolder than on the standard model. The L-mesh black grille integrates with a metallic coated lower bumper moulding, and black side mirrors match the grille. Exclusive wheels, cabin styling and trim and bolstered sports seats add to the F SPORT repertoire in the NX.

Encouraged by innovation, the process to create a Lexus vehicle is unique within the automotive industry. Taking inspiration from fields as diverse as the fashion industry, architecture, the arts and medicine, each vehicle is painstakingly crafted to meet Lexus’ exacting standards.

In Oman every Lexus vehicle comes with special benefits and privileges such as 6 years unlimited extended mileage protection and Lexus Prestige Club Card that offers 24 hours on-road assistance from AAA.