All-new 2022 Lexus NX debuts with plug-in hybrid powertrain

Updated Jun 14, 2021 | Same topic: Automotive Industry Updates

The all-new NX has 302 hp and up to 58 km of range.

Lexus unveiled the all-new 2022 NX, the Japanese car brand’s first-ever Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). As part of the “Lexus Electrified” electrification vision, the new 2022 Lexus NX is expected to advance the brand’s vision that aims to introduce new and improved electrified models by 2025.

The all-new Lexus NX crossover

Designed under the brand’s new development concept called “Vital x Tech Gear,” the new Lexus NX combines vital dynamism (Vital) with advanced technologies (Tech). It is equipped with innovative hybrid powertrains that help contribute to a carbon-neutral society while adapting advanced technologies and safety features.

“The development of the new NX was a series of new challenges for Lexus. We implemented the ‘digital development’ to ensure quality by evaluating the well-thought design structure under various conditions using computer models to check productivity,” said Lexus International Chief Engineer Takeaki Kato.

Exterior

For the second-generation model, the Lexus NX is designed with larger dimensions. The compact crossover is now bearing a measurement that spans 4,660 mm in length, 1,856 mm in width, and 1,640 mm in height, making it 20 mm longer, 20 mm wider, and 5 mm higher than the previous generation.

2022 Lexus NX front view

The second-generation model of the compact crossover

But despite the changes in size, the new NX still retains similar design cues as the outgoing model. Upfront, the spindle grille is slightly revamped to be larger, maximizing the wider proportions. The headlights are also redesigned to look sleeker, while the daytime running lights (DRLs) are now integrated inside the headlight housings.

The side profile gets more aggressive character lines which improves the overall aerodynamic efficiency of the vehicle. Going to the rear, the restyled rear combination lamps are linked by a new elongated light bar, creating a strong and next-gen look as compared to the first-generation model.

Interior

Lexus NX interior view

Flare Red interior available on the F Sport

Inside, the 2022 Lexus NX is configured with the Tazuna interior concept which incorporates a human-centered design development. Lexus thoroughly placed the seats, buttons, and center display to enhance the joy of driving the vehicle by removing features and layouts that can distract drivers while on the go.

Tech & Safety

Speaking of center display, the next-gen model is installed with a 14-inch infotainment screen that is slightly tilted to the driver. It offers a wide array of connectivity including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless connection via Wi-Fi, new web browser function, cloud navigation system, and more.

2022 Lexus NX interior view

A more innovative driving layout

As for safety, the compact crossover is equipped with the evolved Lexus Safety System+, a technology that aims to achieve “zero fatalities and injuries in traffic accidents.” It includes safety features such as radar cruise control, front cross-traffic alert, lane departure alert, advanced park, panoramic view monitor, and more.

Engine & Performance

Lexus will be offering the new NX with four powertrain options, namely the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder plug-in hybrid system, 2.5-liter 4-cylinder hybrid system, 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, and a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine. The engine can be paired to either an FWD layout or electronically controlled full-time AWD via direct shift-8AT.

2022 Lexus NX rear view

Looking sleek and sharp from the front to the back

The 2.5-liter gas engine, available on the base NX250, can make 203 hp and 249 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the NX350 uses the 2.4-liter turbo engine capable of producing 275 hp and 430 Nm of torque.

Moving up to hybrid powertrains, the NX350h comes with a 2.5-liter engine with two electric motors which make a total power output of 239 hp, 20 hp more than the Toyota RAV4. And as for the NX450h+ with the new plug-in hybrid powertrain, it can generate 302 hp and has an estimated electric range of 58 km.

Other performance features include MacPherson struts in the front, trailing arm, double-wishbone design in the rear, Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) exclusive on the F Sport variant, 18- or 20-inch tires with Extended Mobility Tire (EMT), and a revised brake actuator for better braking capabilities.

2022 Lexus NX front view

The first PHEV model from the brand

The new features and design of the 2022 Lexus NX are said to better meet the diversifying needs of car buyers around the world. Pricing, however, hasn’t been fully disclosed just yet. But Lexus said that the next-gen model will go on sale before the end of the year.

“All of this has been done with the full force of our team working together for the smiles of our customers. We hope you will experience the challenge of the new generation of Lexus and the new NX that we, the development team, have poured our passion into delivering,” said Takeaki Kato.

The Lexus NX is a compact crossover entry from the Japanese luxury car brand. It sits in between the Lexus UX and RX in terms of size in the car brand’s crossover family. Since its introduction last 2014 only, the Japanese compact crossover has been sold for over one million units in more than 90 countries and regions already.

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Know more about Lexus NX 2024

Lexus NX

The 2024 Lexus NX is a 5-seater compact luxury crossover that recently got a major update earlier in 2021. It is available in the Philippines in three variants, with a price ranging from Php 3,518,000 to Php 4,778,000. Under the hood, the vehicle is available with two engine options. Firstly, the NX 350h variants use a 2.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine with two electric motors, producing 237 horsepower and 239 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the top-spec 350 F Sport comes with a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 gasoline engine good for 276 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque. As for the transmission, the top-spec variant has an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the non-F Sport trims benefit from a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Dimensions-wise, the NX measures 4,660 mm long, 1865 mm wide, and 1,670 mm high, with a minimum ground clearance rated at 195 mm. Locally, this compact crossover is competing against the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, BMW X3, and Audi Q5.

>>> New and used Lexus NX 2024 for sale in the Philippines

Lexus NX Launch

The Lexus NX was initially launched at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition on April 20, 2014. Sales in other parts of the world including the Philippines began in the last quarter of the same year. In early 2022, Lexus Philippines introduced the all-new version of its compact crossover.

Lexus NX Exterior

All variants of the Lexus NX measure 4,660 mm long, 1865 mm wide, and 1,670 mm high, with a minimum ground clearance rated at 195 mm. Its athletic body is designed with sharp and contemporary details that successfully merge with a luxurious vibe.

Lexus NX angular front

The brand's signature spindle grille on the NX is now more upright, which Lexus claims to add improved cooling to the engine. With this, the new grille not only provides a more aesthetically appealing finish but also efficiency.

Lexus NX angular rear

Lexus NX Interior

Inside, the Japanese marque integrated the Tazuna cockpit design. This type of design language allows the dashboard layout to be driver-oriented, making the shift lever, air-conditioning controls, and touchscreen easier to reach for the driver.

Lexus NX seats

Other interior features include leather seats, automatic climate control, auto-dimming and heated driver’s side view mirrors, a power-folding rear seat, a power tailgate, ventilated front seats with electronic power adjustment, a power tilt and telescopic steering column, and a panoramic sunroof.

Lexus NX Technology & Safety Features

Providing entertainment, information, and other important driving details is a 9.8-inch multi-information screen. For a larger screen, the Premier and F Sport variants are equipped with a 14-inch touchscreen with a 17-piece Mark Levinson surround sound system.

Lexus NX interior

All variants of the crossover now come standard with the Lexus Safety Sense, the brand's advanced driver assistance system (ADAS). This safety tech offers dynamic radar cruise control, a pre-collision system, adaptive and automatic high beams, lane trace assist, and lane departure warning.

Platform & Chassis

All variants of the Lexus NX are built with a MacPherson Strut suspension at the front and a Double Wishbone at the rear. Braking power is assisted by ventilated discs for all four wheels.

Engine & Drivetrain

The Lexus NX 350h and 350h Premier run using a 2.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine with two electric motors. It is capable of producing 237 horsepower and 239 Nm of torque. Only a continuously variable transmission (CVT) is available for the two variants.

On the other hand, the Lexus NX 350 F Sport boasts a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 gasoline engine good for 276 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque. To enhance the performance, the said engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

All NX variants utilize an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system.

Available colors for the Lexus NX are White Nova Glass Flake, Heat Blue Contrast Layering, Celestial Blue Glass Flake, Terrane Khaki Mica Metallic, Blazing Carnelian Contrast Layering, Madder Red, Graphite Black Glass Flake, Black, Sonic Titanium, Sonic Quartz, and Sonic Chrome.

In comparison to rivals such as the BMW X3 2024 and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the Lexus NX is one of the most affordable compact luxury crossovers in the market with a starting price of Php 3,518,000.

Lexus NX 2024 Price List

 Variants Price
Lexus NX 350h ₱3,518,000
Lexus NX 350h Premier ₱4,718,000
Lexus NX 350 F Sport ₱4,778,000

Lexus NX Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Sportier and sharper design
  • Quiet and refined ride
  • Good fuel efficiency with the hybrid powertrain

Cons

  • Massive price bump over the outgoing model

Lexus NX FAQs

1. Is a Lexus NX worth it?

Yes, the Lexus NX is a good car to buy. The NX is a luxury compact SUV with a spacious and premium interior, comfy seats, and a wealth of active safety features.

2. What are the Dimensions of Lexus NX?

The dimensions of Lexus NX are 4,660 mm in length, 1,865 mm in width, and 1,670 mm in height.

3. How much does a Lexus NX 2024 cost in the Philippines?

In the Philippines, the price of Lexus NX ranges from 3,518,000Php to 4,778,000Php, depending on variants.

4. Which Lexus NX Philippines color is best?

It’s difficult to tell which color is best since this depends on each one’s preference. However, Lexus NX White Nova Glass Flake and Black seem to be a popular choice.

5. What is the engine of the Lexus NX?

The Lexus NX gives users a 2.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine.

₱ 3,348,000 - ₱ 4,688,000

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Rex Sanchez

Rex Sanchez

Author

Rex Sanchez grew up in Saudi Arabia where he saw and got into the automotive scene. He started his career for an aviation company in the said region, writing about turbines and rotors which are later distributed for educational purposes. And now, he joined Philkotse.com as a staff writer. Currently, he is the youngest on the team and is more than ready to grow in the field.

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