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Stand out in the parking lot | 2017 Lexus NX 200t F-Sport Quick Spin

Timing is a funny thing. As I'm writing this mini-review of the Lexus NX 200t, which has been out for several years and used the brand's first turbocharged engine in America, a newly-revised NX just debuted in China. It doesn't have much bearing on my thoughts about the CUV, but it does go to show the growing importance of China for luxury manufacturers like Lexus and Mercedes-Benz. It's been almost three years since we drove the NX 200t for the first time. Back then, our reviewer was impressed by how different it felt from the RAV4 – the two vehicles share a platform, although Lexus claims 90 percent of the NX is distinct from its Toyota cousin. The biggest differences are styling and, more important, the powertrain. With turbocharging going very mainstream in the intervening years, how does the NX200t hold up? I spent a week in an F-Sport trim in a striking orange color to find out for myself. It took a little while for me to warm up to the powertrain. Even in Sport mode, things seem ... well, they seem a little sluggish. The NX has a funny way of expressing its slightly more than adequate horsepower and torque by requiring a hefty punt to spool up the turbo and get things moving along. Normal drive mode could pass for an economy setting. Back in 2014 when this thing was new, it was clear that the RAV4 connection doesn't matter as much as we, as enthusiasts, would think. It's easy for us to fixate on what vehicle is related to what platform, and which way its engine sits. And that's good! We need to do that. But Lexus determined that they didn't need it to sit on a rear-drive sportscar platform because of course not! It's a little crossover. From a packaging standpoint, that'd be idiotic, and from a marketing standpoint likewise. Not to say that buyers of the NX 200t aren't discerning. But I think their priorities and desires probably align with what Lexus decided to produce. This is good and proper. Also, it beats the heck out of a RAV4. I love the seats. Every body is different, sure. But these seats are completely spot on for what my body needs. They're sporty-looking without resorting to immense bolsters that pinch the torso, and they're very supportive. I wouldn't say they're the best seat's I've tried out of the hundreds of cars I've driven over the years, but they're probably the best small crossover seats I can recall. To put it in different terms, on some long road trips you need to stop just to stretch – that's not the case here.

Lexus CT 200h gets four changes for 2016

As Toyota rolls out its updated 2016 model range, it's clear that some refreshes are fresher than others. Whereas the 2016 Scion tC got breathed on, the 2016 Lexus CT 200h gets a mere glance, and only for a moment. Just four items differentiate the coming model from the one currently on sale, and three of those are optional: a chrome surround for the grille is standard; a moonroof, Lexus Enform Remote, and Lexus Service Connect are options. Lexus Enform Remote gives owners control of the car through an iOS or Android smartphone app so they can do things like unlock and lock the doors, remote start the engine, and locate the vehicle. Lexus Service Connect works through iOS or LexusDrivers.com site only and provides notes on vehicle health. Both services are by subscription. The CT 200h doesn't make a lot of headlines but it's a good performer for Lexus. It wins awards, it's the only luxury hybrid to get more than 40 miles per gallon, it's put up consistent sales numbers for the four years it's been on the market, and it's the brand's second-best-selling hybrid globally after the RX hybrid. We've already told you what's new, the press release below can tell you everything else you'd want to know. Related Video: 2016 Lexus CT 200h Offers Compact Attitude With Impressive MPG - 42 MPG EPA Estimated Combined Fuel Economy - F SPORT Package Delivers Sporty Performance - Peace of Mind with Lexus Enform Remote and Lexus Enform Service Connect July 24, 2015 - What do you get when Lexus melds a sporty luxury compact with an environmentally conscientious attitude? The 2016 CT 200h. With an EPA-estimated 42 MPG combined fuel economy the CT 200h is one of six hybrid models Lexus offers for 2016. Lexus has been the hybrid luxury leader since it introduced the first luxury hybrid more than 10 years ago. The CT 200h broke new ground for Lexus, introducing the brand to a younger generation of highly discerning customers. They, too, quickly discovered the refinement and driving pleasure that characterize the progressive luxury inherent in every Lexus. A sporty chassis keeps the CT 200h connected to the road's curves, and for 2016, the dashing look is enhanced with a chrome surround grille. Drivers can also now opt in for additional peace of mind with Lexus Enform Remote and Lexus Enform Service Connect. Lexus Enform Remote (subscription required), allows the owner to remotely view and control certain vehicle features using a mobile app for iOS and Android devices.

10 electric cars we’re excited are coming soon

If you were considering buying an electric vehicle a couple years ago, we wouldn't fault you for thinking your options were limited, both in terms of quantity and quality. You just might not have been able to find an electric car that would suit your needs, lifestyle or budget. With the newest generation of EVs that have launched in the past year or two, your options have changed — and improved — dramatically. If you still don't see an EV you like, just wait a little while longer. It won't take long. There are a whole lot more on the horizon, and the problem may soon be in narrowing down your options. To give you an example, here are 10 electric vehicles we're excited about that you'll be able to buy very soon, from GM, from Germany, from Japan and more. Some of these will be available by the end of the year, and all are expected to launch by the end of 2023. The Chevy trio: 2024 Blazer EV, Equinox EV and Silverado EV GM is stepping into the future with strong footing. Following high-end electric launches from GMC (Hummer EV) and Cadillac (Lyriq), Chevrolet is bringing three electric vehicles with familiar nameplates. The 2024 Chevy Blazer EV (above left) will offer a number of versions, starting with the 2LT and RS trims in the summer of 2023, followed by the 557-horsepower SS in the fall and the base 1LT in early 2024. The 2024 Chevy Equinox EV (above right) will go on sale in fall 2023 as a limited-edition model, with volume sales ramping up in 2024, with a base cost of “around $30,000.” For those who prefer a bed to a liftgate, the 2024 Chevy Silverado EV is an electric pickup that looks more like the old Chevy Avalanche than the current Silverado. The WT (work truck) trim launches in fall 2023, while the 664-horsepower RST will follow in 2024. Read more: 5 new electric car companies coming in 2023 and beyond 2023 BMW i7 BMW revealed the all-electric 2023 i7 luxury sedan alongside the gas-powered 7 Series. It should go on sale before the end of 2022. The i7 xDrive60 will be the only variant, with its two motors providing a total of 536 horsepower and 549 pound-feet of torque, and its battery expected to offer a range of about 300 miles. Just like its internal combustion counterpart, this full-size sedan wonÂ’t come cheap, with the i7 starting at $120,295. 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Following the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6 and Genesis GV60, the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 will be the fourth car using Hyundai GroupÂ’s E-GMP electric car architecture.