2015 Lexus NX 300h: Hybrid Winter Blues

Lexus has resisted the temptation to push the NX 300h's exterior dimensions too far in the direction of its best-selling RX mid-size SUV.

I really enjoyed driving the Lexus NX 300h. What I wasn't so impressed with was its casual disregard for its advertised fuel efficiency rating.

It's not all smiles and cupcakes inside the 2015 Lexus NX 300h.

The NX offers more of a cockpit feel than its larger RX sibling.

The amount of communication between the NX's chassis and the driver is commendable.

The Remote Touch infotainment system has evolved to the point where it's almost unusable.

Cold weather saps the Lexus hybrid's efficiency.

Like or loathe the NX 300h's aggressive visage, you certainly can't ignore it.

Triple LED headlights are a nice touch at the front of the NX 300h.

That the NX resembles a knife-fight on wheels is in fact a boon in a segment of the market where small people movers are more often styled after the appliances they imitate in function and personality.

The inability to meet expectations in colder weather is an across-the-board problem for hybrid vehicles.

EV mode was missing-in-action during my time with the 300h.

In the snow, the 300h was masterful, keeping its footing even through deep drifts in my alley and on icy stretches of the autoroute surrounding Montreal.

Total output for the crossover is 194 horsepower.

Front seats are snug and comfortable in the NX.

There's a lot of room inside the Lexus NX.

Subtle styling elements complement the NX 300h's broad strokes.

Cargo space is generous inside the NX 300h.

I used the steering wheel buttons as much as possible to avoid the Remote Touch touchpad.