2018 Lexus NX unveiled in Shanghai

Lexus has taken the covers off its updated NX SUV at the 2017 Shanghai motor show.

The Japanese rival to the BMW X3, Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC has been given an upgrade two years after it first went on sale.

Most of the changes are subtle but Lexus claims much of the exterior has been redesigned including tweaks to the grille, bonnet, headlights and taillights. There are also two new 18-inch alloy wheel designs, one of which has a bronze-coloured finished to give it a unique look in the range.

"Starting at the spindle grille, the way the front edges connect to the front fenders results in a much bolder expression than before, clearly highlighting the NX's style design architecture," explained, Shin Kamiura, the NX's exterior designer. "We've also changed the shape of the lower front bumper to better support the spindle grille, as well as relocating the fog lamps to the corner of the front bumpers, separating them from the ducts. The result is a front fascia with a stronger and more aggressive presence."

At the rear the boot now features a hands-free function that allows you to open the boot by swiping or kicking your foot under the rear bumper.

Inside there are more significant changes starting with a larger infotainment screen - 10.3-inches instead of the previous 7.0 - and the switchgear has been improved. The touchpad has been enlarged to make it easier to use and the wrist rest has also been redesigned for greater comfort.

The air-conditioning controls have also been changed with new toggle switches introduced to simplify the operations. The dashboard has also been redesigned to more seamlessly integrate the heads-up display.

The line up remains the same but the NX 200t, with the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine, renamed NX 300. The decision to drop the 't' designation from the turbocharged model is part of a wider renaming strategy that will rollout across the brand's range.

The NX 300h remains unchanged with the 2.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid powertrain.

But the suspension of the NX has had major changes with the introduction of Adaptive Variable Suspension derived from the LC 500 coupe. In addition to that the springs, stabiliser bars and bushings have all been changed for this new model in an effort to improve the way the NX both rides and handles.

The company also claims the car is quieter and more refined than before.

The new NX is set to arrive in Australia in the first half of 2018. Lexus Australia will confirm the full pricing and specification closer to that date.

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