The Lexus
LF-NX SUV concept will be used to reveal the company’s challenger to European turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engines.
Toyota’s luxury division has confirmed CarAdvice’s previous story on the LF-NX first show at the Frankfurt motor show that its new 2.0-litre turbo four will debut at the 2013 Tokyo motor show.
No details such as power and torque outputs have been released yet for the new engine, though it would be expected to offer similar power but lower fuel consumption to the 2.5-litre V6 it will eventually replace.
The 2.5L V6 produces 153kW and 252Nm in the Lexus IS250, for example, with official fuel economy of 9.2L/100km off the pace of rival German models using 2.0-litre turbos (Audi, BMW) or 1.8-litre turbos (Mercedes).
BMW has managed to extract 180kW and 350Nm, with fuel consumption of 6.3L/100km, for the 2.0-litre turbo four that powers its 328i.
Trademark filings point to the 200t badge being used for Lexus models powered by the new engine, which is expected to make its debut in the production version of the LF-NX concept in 2014 – as the Lexus NX200t.
The IS sedan, bigger RX SUV and just-unveiled RC coupe would all be expected to feature the turbo four in their ranges, while a CT200t model would also make sense considering the company’s hatchback is currently limited to a hybrid drivetrain option only.
Industry speculation points to the new turbo engine making its way into Toyotas, such as the RAV4.
One other, smaller difference for the LF-NX concept being shown in Tokyo is a sportier, aerodynamic front splitter.
CarAdvice will bring more details from the 2013 Tokyo motor show running from 20th November.
