Limited cargo capacity means the 2016 Lexus NX 200t might not be the best choice for family-oriented shoppers, but its aggressive exterior design and high-tech interior will be draws for everybody else.It's hard to stand out when you're in a field as competitive as the compact luxury SUV group, but that's exactly what the 2016 Lexus NX 200t (like its NX 300h hybrid sibling) manages to do. It starts with the NX's in-your-face styling, of course, which is defined by bold angles and slashes that make most rivals look tame. Love it or hate it, the NX's polarizing appearance at least guarantees that owners won't lose their Lexus in a crowded parking lot. That's not something we've always been able to say for this historically conservative brand's offerings.
Pros Impeccable cabin construction Generous backseat room Copious high-tech features Smooth and quiet engine.
Cons Small cargo capacity Potentially distracting Remote Touch interface.
The 2016 Lexus NX lineup enters its second model year mostly unchanged. This entirely new model brought several firsts to the Lexus lineup with its introduction last year—a first compact crossover entry for the brand, the first model for the brand with a turbocharged engine, and the first utility vehicle to be given a new design language, which has since been followed in the larger 2016 RX lineup.Striking styling and a turbocharged engine are only the opening acts for a remarkably well-rounded family of 2016 Lexus NX compact luxury crossover models. he NX takes on a crowded field that includes the Acura RDX, Audi Q5, BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Cadillac SRX, and Volvo XC60, and it relies on the outstanding reputation of the brand—as well as a far more aggressive design—to stand out. Keep in mind that the drama is mostly in the sheet metal; the profile isn't all the impractical, and the interior is just a slightly more styled version of what's familiar from the brand's other products.
Likes Hybrid and turbo models Edgy, truly standout styling Lexus reputation and resale value Balances practical with sporty
Dislikes Not as smooth/quiet as the RX Remote Touch, and its mouse controller Road noise with sportier tire/wheel combos
After debuting last year, the 2016 Lexus NX subcompact-luxury- crossover SUV continues on with only a smattering of changes. The 2016 NX is based loosely on the Toyota RAV4, but comes with its own engines: a turbocharged 4-cylinder in the NX 200t, or a hybrid drivetrain in the NX. Both 2016 Lexus NX models are sharp-looking, fun-driving and surprisingly roomy luxury SUVs, especially considering the compact exterior dimensions. The interior design, materials and technology punch its weight, lending an air of sophistication beyond its mid-$30,000 price, which is higher than its Audi A3, BMW X1 and Mercedes GLA-Class rivals. Clever touches include a “kick-down” for better throttle response in the 300h hybrid, which uses an electric motor to power the rear wheels in all-wheel-drive models.
Likes The 2016 Lexus NX is a comfortable, high-tech and sophisticated compact-luxury-crossover SUV, combined with the legendary reliability that made Lexus famous, and all wrapped in cutting-edge styling, Sound good? Then check it out.
Dislikes If you're not into the new styling direction that Lexus is taking with its newer cars like the NX, then it's going to be a tough sell. Similarly, if you need to tow or haul, there's not a lot of either capacity in the NX.
The 2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport adds two new dimensions to its performance profile: a turbodiesel V-6 and a supercharged HST edition. For the 2016 model year, it adds two new sources of power—one more frugal, one not so much.The current Range Rover Sport is much lighter and more nimble than the first-generation model. It took unsexy materials science to make the Sport more slinky. Like the Range Rover, the Sport's body is now made from glued-and-riveted aluminum, a switch from steel that's said to be 800 pounds lighter.
Pros Crisp styling blends Range Rover, Evoque Rorty supercharged V-6, thundering supercharged V-8 Serene, stately cabin "5+2" seating offers expanded utility Masters both kinds of driving—on and off-road
Cons Big jump from base to Autobiography "+2" seating is only for kids, only for very short trips Still expensive
From its iconic square-edge styling to its impressive off-road credentials, Land Rover’s 2016 Range Rover Sport luxury SUV is in a league of its own. The Brit’s ability to marry wood, leather and plastic produces an interior second to none, which may help justify the Range Rover Sport’s lofty price over a similarly equipped Audi Q7 or BMW X5. Land Rover knows exclusivity has its price, and those with adequate means don’t usually quibble over window stickers. While we know the vast majority of 2016 Range Rover Sports will never see anything but paved roads, it’s nice to know that this luxury SUV is an incredibly competent off-road vehicle, one of the best in the world, in fact.
Pros If exclusivity and capability are the hallmarks of what you want in your next luxury SUV, the 2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport won’t disappoint. When equipped with the supercharged V8, the Sport can give even the Porsche Cayenne a run for its money.
Cons If you seek luxury, capability and status in an SUV with a lower price tag and a better service history than the Range Rover Sport, an Acura MDX, Audi Q7 or Mercedes-Benz GL is a better choice. Even the smaller Land Rover Discovery Sport is a more palatable option.
Stylish, athletic and luxurious, with an optional third-row seat and diesel powertrain to boot, the 2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a well-rounded premium SUV. Every vehicle is a compromise, and yet the 2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport tries to do it all — and we'll be darned if it doesn't come close. Here's a vehicle that can go from a muddy, rutted trail directly to a racetrack (a transition we've actually experienced in the 550-horsepower SVR model) and feel confident in both locales. Naturally, luxury is also a big part of the equation, as the Range Rover Sport coddles its occupants with comfortable seats and high-end materials throughout the cabin.
Pros Composed handling Powerful supercharged V8 Fuel-efficient diesel option Available seven-passenger seating True off-road capability.
Cons Third-row seat just for kids Unimpressive fuel economy with gasoline engines Modest cargo capacity.
