DESERT GENTLEMAN

An NX that ginally feels complete and loves to escape the urban jungle

- By Yash Sunil Photographs Kaizad Adil Darukhanawala

I have always felt that Lexus approaches the luxury market with a fundamentally different mindset from the rest.

While the German manufacturers often seem to be in a constant arms race for the most horsepower or the flashiest interior lighting, Lexus tends to focus on precision, craftsmanship and a sense of comfort that feels rooted in Japanese philosophy rather than raw statistics. This approach has created a very loyal following among people who want a premium experience without the predictability of typical choices. The NX sits at the entry point of the Lexus SUV lineup. For many buyers, it serves as the primary introduction to the brand. However, the car I have been driving recently is not just a standard NX. This is the NX 350h Overtrail, and after spending significant time behind the wheel, I am convinced it is the most complete and intelligent version of the NX currently available in India.

For me, the Overtrail is not just a different trim level; it feels more like a specific philosophy. Lexus has treated it as a sub-brand that adds a layer of adventure without making the car feel like a gimmick. The most obvious change is the colour. My test car was finished in a brilliant sand-like shade called Moon Desert. In a parking lot full of monochrome luxury SUVs, it stands out immediately. I think this colour works incredibly well with the blacked-out spindle grille, the lower bumper elements and the roof rails. There is a subtle ruggedness to the aesthetic. It does not look like a vehicle trying to play at being a hardcore off-roader, but it quietly suggests that it can handle a rough patch of road if I ask it to.