2015 Lexus NX 300h Performance Test

We've already shown you what the NX 200t can do last week and now it's time for a tachovideo of the hybrid version to show you the difference in performance. The crossover vehicle was recently tested by Autobytel, who were curious if nearly 200 horsepower was enough for a brisk overtake or joining highway traffic.

The NX 300h comes with the same 2.5-liter gasoline engine running the Atkinson cycle as the IS and GS 300h models. It's even got a CVT gearbox, but all-wheel drive is available as an option.

The best Autobytel could manage was 8.4 seconds to 60 mph, with the rive Mode set to "Sport" and the Traction Control turned "Off". However, no matter what you do with the settings, this isn't a fast vehicle, nor was is designed to be.

As they test of the acceleration of the new Lexus, we noticed the hybrid comes with a few party tricks. For example, the speedometer combines a normal needle with a digital face that changes according to the driving model. The CVT gearbox isn't normal either. It's a power split device that both the electric motor and the engine can engage independently or simultaneously, depending on what's most efficient.

In America, the Lexus NX comes out at the same time as two new German compact crossover, the Audi Q3 and Mercedes GLA-Class. However, the Japanese car will cost about the same, is the only one offered as a hybrid and will cost about the same (expected at $35,000).