The new generation of the Lexus NX makes its debut. The representative of the Japanese luxury brand in the D segment is completely renewed, betting on an evolved and more modern design inside and out. On sale since the end of 2021, it debuts in plug-in hybrid technology, unprecedented in Lexus, arguments to continue its particular success.
The Lexus NX was released on the European market in 2014, a serious bet in one of the most complicated markets with the clear dominance of the Germans. After seven years on sale, a completely new generation has just been introduced, although its design clearly shows an evolution with a more modern touch. The new Lexus NX 2022 will go on sale in late 2021, with the first units arriving in 2022.
The look of the new SUV follows the same prevailing design principle at Lexus, the ‘L-finesse’, featuring slimmer headlamps that now integrate the LED daytime running light on the upper edge and in the shape of a ‘Z’, so the one below has been removed. The grill is larger and looks more upright, which improves cooling. The short overhangs are now combined with larger wheel arches that allow up to 20-inch alloy wheels to be fitted.
The Design
At the rear, the new NX also features an evolved design, with new width-extending lamps linked by a light bar, and an inverted ‘L’ parking light signature. The brand name centered and immediately below confers a more elegant aesthetic, saying goodbye to the classic emblem on the rear.
The Lexus NX 2022 practically maintains the proportions of the outgoing model, with an increase of 20 millimeters in the length and width, 30 millimeters in the wheelbase, and only 5 millimeters more in the height dimension. Just enough to offer more interior space, especially in the rear seats, some measurements that you can see in more detail below.
inside, the new Lexus NX 2022 is a revolution. The dashboard has a curved and enveloping look, following the ‘Tazuna’ design style. A multifunction steering wheel with new touch controls that reproduce the icon of the function in the optional head-up display, the instrument panel is digital and the infotainment touch screen is very generous: 9.8 inches with the «Lexus Link system.
Lexus NX 2022 Interior
Both multimedia platforms feature the natural voice command assistant that responds to the “Hey Lexus” command, as well as an ultra-fast wireless charger and four USB ports. Lexus has reorganized the transmission tunnel, placing the start button, the gear lever, the climate control controls, and the selector of the driving modes in search of greater ergonomics.
A very interesting detail is that the Lexus NX 2022 is the first model of the firm that has replaced the traditional door handles with buttons on the door panels: the “E-Latch” system, which will only be offered together with the monitoring of the blind spot of the rearview mirrors. The firm also offers the third generation of the safety package “Lexus Safety System +”, improving the operation of the following driving assistants:
- Pre-collision system with detection of motorcycles, pedestrians, and static physical objects
- Emergency steering assistant for dodge maneuvers
- Curve Lane Keeping Assistant
- Traffic sign assistant with warning and STOP detection
- Cruise control with speed limit recognition
New Engine Range
The new Lexus NX 2022 has been developed on the new GA-K platform, shared with the also new Toyota RAV4. A stronger, lighter, and more efficient architecture. These qualities allow it to offer two hybrid versions, a self-recharging hybrid and a plug-in, the first of the Japanese brand, both equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine that yields a maximum power of 177 hp in the first and 185 hp in the second.
The NX 350h has a 120 hp electric motor and a 54 hp rear motor, so the total performance amounts to 242 hp. The second, the NX450h +, has the same configuration, although the front electric motor yields 182 hp, so the maximum power amounts to 306 hp. The maximum autonomy is 63 kilometers, thanks to its 18.1 kWh lithium-ion battery. The first will be offered with front and all-wheel drive with the “E-Four” system, with the rear electric motor always available, and the second only with this system.
