It takes the carmaker into the growing and fleet-heavy premium crossover sector, aiming to conquest sales from the similarly sized BMW X3 and Audi Q5, as well as smaller vehicles such as the Range Rover Evoque and Mercedes-Benz GLA.

The NX 300h available from launch will be available with two and four-wheel drive. It uses the same 2.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine as the new IS and GS 300h, while the four-wheel drive system is the same as the RX 450h, using an additional electric motor to drive the rear wheels rather than a direct mechanical connection.

At present, only the smaller but similarly priced GLA offers CO2 emissions which can match Lexus's target of less than 120g/km. 

Lexus will use the same range structure as all of its latest models, starting with a two-wheel drive only S grade at £29,495. All other grades get four-wheel drive as standard, from the SE at £31,495, to the range-topping Premier at £42,995. Lexus will also offer the car in the familiar Luxury and F Sport trim levels, at £34,495 and £36,995 respectively.

Standard equipment includes cruise control, dual-zone climate control, DAB digital radio and LED low-beam headlights, while navigation will be offered as an option for £995.