Lexus GB’s new hybrid NX 300h will be its first UK model fitted as standard with radar-controlled systems to help prevent accidents, the automaker said.
All versions of the NX 300h, the Toyota luxury unit’s first compact crossover, will have a pre-crash safety system and adaptive cruise control among their active, passive and preventive safety features.
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Pre-crash safety uses a millimetre-wave radar sensor in the front grille to detect vehicles and other obstacles on the road ahead. If there is a high risk of a collision, PCS will alert the driver with a buzzer and visual warning, activate the pre-crash seatbelt pretensioners, and, when the driver begins to brake, provide pre-crash brake assist to supplement the braking effort. If the driver does not brake and a collision becomes inevitable, the pre-crash brake will automatically apply the brakes to reduce impact speed and lessen the consequences of the impact.
All-speed adaptive cruise control
The adaptive cruise control – similar to systems now available from rival automakers – uses the same front radar sensor as the pre-crash safety system and steering sensors to recognise a vehicle ahead and maintain a safe distance. The latest version works at all speeds, even down to standstill. Once on the move again, the system will automatically accelerate back to the pre-selected speed.
Active safety
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By GlobalDataThe active safety package includes lane keep assist, blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert, again similar to systems from many rival automakers.
The NX 300h will also have (now mandatory in the EU) daytime running lights, rear view camera, front and rear fog lamps, plus electronic safety and handling systems including emergency brake signal, vehicle stability control traction control, ABS with brake assist and electronic brake force distribution and hill start assist.
Automatic high beam
One interesting and still relatively rare feature is the automatic high beam function (standard with the F Sport and Premier trim levels) uses a windscreen mounted camera to detect both oncoming traffic and vehicles ahead. It automatically switches the LED headlamps to high beam when the road ahead is clear, and to low beam to prevent other road uses being dazzled.
Passive safety
Front and side impact protection measures include the use of high tensile strength sheet steel (up to 980Mpa) in key areas, including the centre pillar hinge reinforcement, outer rockers and roof cross members. In a collision, side impact load is direct to the floor through cross members built into the rockers beneath the centre pillars.
The roof impact resistance structure disperses load when the roof is crushed, minimising cabin distortion. It includes front pillar reinforcement and high strength steel reinforcements in the centre pillars, and reinforcement around the seatbelt anchors.
In the cabin there are energy-absorbing structures in the pillars and headlining and impact-absorbing pads in the front and rear door trims, alongside the occupants’ lumbar region. All models are fitted with whiplash injury-lessening front seats.
Airbags
All versions of the NX 300h come with eight airbags, including a dual-stage driver’s airbag, dual-stage and dual-chamber front passenger airbag, driver’s knee airbag, front passenger cushion airbag, front side airbags and full-length curtain airbags.
Pedestrian Protection
Pedestrian protection provisions include an energy-absorbing structure for the bonnet and wing mounting bracket and an impact-absorbing structure for the cowl. Energy-absorbing material is used in the front of the bumper and beneath the radiator support, to reduce the risk of leg injuries.
