Lexus teams up with will.i.am for NX special edition
Lexus has announced a limited edition NX crossover designed in collaboration with musician will.i.am, with the model set to launch before the end of 2014.
Lexus has confirmed a partnership with musician and producer will.i.am to create a special edition of the NX crossover, due for launch before the end of 2014. The collaboration forms part of the brand’s Striking Angles campaign, with both parties promising a bespoke take on the recently introduced SUV.
Lexus stated that will.i.am is directly involved in shaping the look and feel of the limited edition NX, though neither Lexus nor the artist provided specific details about what changes buyers should expect. The announcement did not include images or specifications, and there is no information yet on pricing, colour schemes, or production numbers.
Standard Lexus NX: Features and Trims
The standard NX, which went on sale in the UK in 2014, is offered with a 2.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid powertrain in the 300h, as well as a range of trim levels including S, SE and Luxury. Entry-level models feature LED headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels and an eight-speaker audio system. Higher trims add features such as all-wheel drive, 18-inch wheels, heated seats, roof rails, rain-sensing wipers, passive entry-system, LED fog lamps, auto-dimming rearview mirror and parking sensors. The starting price for the NX 300h S in the UK was £29,495 at launch.
| Engine | 2.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid |
|---|---|
| Entry-level features | LED headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, 8-speaker audio |
| SE additional features | Roof rails, rain-sensing wipers, heated front seats, all-wheel drive, 18-inch alloy wheels |
| Luxury additional features | Passive entry-system, LED fog lamps, auto-dimming rearview mirror, parking sensors |
| Starting price (S) | £29,495 |
Celebrity Collaborations in Special Edition Cars
Lexus is not the first manufacturer to enlist celebrities for limited edition models. In recent years, several brands have released special editions tied to musicians or fashion designers, aiming to attract style-conscious buyers and generate publicity. These collaborations often focus on unique styling, exclusive trim, or branding inspired by the celebrity partner.
- Nissan Juke Ministry of Sound Edition (music tie-in)
- Fiat 500byDIESEL (fashion collaboration)
- BMW 116i Fashionista Edition (Japan market, design-focused)
Such partnerships are typically designed to stand out in the marketplace and appeal to buyers looking for something distinct from standard models. The NX will.i.am edition follows this trend, though Lexus has yet to clarify whether the changes will be purely cosmetic or if they will extend to technology and equipment.
Potential Impact for Buyers
With the NX already positioned as Lexus’s answer to the premium compact SUV market, a will.i.am special edition is likely to focus on distinctive styling and unique trim, appealing to buyers looking for exclusivity. The involvement of a high-profile celebrity such as will.i.am may also broaden the car’s appeal to younger or more style-oriented customers. Until Lexus releases further details, it is unclear whether the limited edition will command a premium over the standard model or how many units will be available.
Special editions can sometimes become sought-after collector’s items, especially if production numbers are low or if the changes are particularly unique. For buyers interested in standing out, such editions offer a chance to own a vehicle that is less likely to be seen elsewhere on the road. However, the lack of technical information at this stage means potential buyers will need to wait for further announcements before making any decisions.
Announcement Timing and Related Models
The Lexus NX will.i.am special edition was announced in August 2014, with launch planned before the end of the year. This announcement came shortly after the NX range itself was introduced to the UK market, signalling Lexus’s intent to capitalise on the model’s early momentum. The timing also places the NX will.i.am edition alongside other recent special editions from major brands, such as the Acura TSX Special Edition and the Mazda MX-5 Special Edition for the Chicago Auto Show, both of which aimed to generate excitement around established models through limited-run variants.
For those interested in other recent special editions from major brands, see coverage of the Acura TSX Special Edition and Mazda MX-5 Special Edition for the Chicago Auto Show. These examples highlight the broader trend of manufacturers releasing unique versions of existing models to attract attention and cater to niche markets.
