Set to start deliveries from next month, the new hybrid crossover targets low CO2 emissions and strong fuel economy. A key part of its efficiency will be the lightweight all-wheel drive system.

Called E-Four, the system uses an additional electric motor to drive the rear axle while the front axle is powered by the hybrid petrol engine or electric motor, or a combination of both of them.

Operation is automatic and the system works intelligently, varying the amount of drive torque to the rear wheels in line needs.

As it’s only used when needed it saves energy and fuel. The rear motor also acts as a generator for the NX 300h's regenerative braking system, increasing the amount of kinetic energy that can be harvested and stored as electric power.

As a result, the NX 300h in all-wheel drive offers official combined cycle fuel economy of 54.3mpg with 121g/km CO2 emissions.

E-Four is fitted as standard on all UK versions of the new NX 300h, apart from the entry-level S model, which has front-wheel drive only and offers 56.5mpg official combined consumption and 116g/km.

On-the-road prices start at £29,495 for the NX 300h S.