With its second generation NX, here subtly updated, Lexus has at last fielded a properly class-competitive contender in the segment for mid-sized premium brand SUVs. Jonathan Crouch drives it.

Ten Second Review

With this second generation NX, Lexus has brought us a strikingly styled premium mid-sized SUV that's unafraid to go its own way when it comes to cars of this kind. It's still one of the only models in its class that can't be ordered in diesel form, offering instead a beautifully refined and highly efficient petrol/electric Hybrid powertrain, available in PHEV Plug-in as well as self-charging forms. If you're choosing in this segment, most of the magazines will tell you to buy something German. But if this revitalised NX appeals, you may well feel that you know better. And you could be right. As you might already be aware, there are two distinct versions of the NX, full-Hybrid or PHEV. Most will want the more affordable full-Hybrid self-charging 350h version, with a powertrain that you can't plug in but which can run fully electrically, independently of the combustion unit for some of the time, a formula still ignored by all this car's most direct Crossover rivals. That drive format uses a fourth generation Hybrid system retaining the previous AZ10 model's 2.5-litre four cylinder format, but offering 24% more power, which means 241bhp beneath your right foot. With a self-charging Hybrid NX, there's a choice between having a front-driven model - or the AWD 'E-FOUR' version, which is slightly quicker, making 62mph from rest in 7.7s. The AWD version gains its extra acceleration courtesy of the addition of a second electric motor driving the rear axle and producing a further 53bhp. With the alternative NX 450h+ plug-in variant, which has to be had with the AWD system, total output is raised to 305bhp to compensate for the extra 180kg weight of the PHEV system's big 18.1kWh battery. That delivers an impressive potential EV driving range of up to 47 miles.

Background

With this second generation AZ20-era version of its NX mid-sized SUV, launched in 2021, Lexus at last seemed to have sorted out its SUV and drivetrain strategy. Prior to this model, the brand had never had a properly-sized mid-shaped model similar in aspiration and shaping to key premium models like the Audi Q5 and the Mercedes GLC. The company's first generation AZ10-era NX crossover wasn't quite big enough to fill that role, but it was just a little too large and pricey to fill the compact premium SUV niche subsequently taken by the smaller Lexus UX. This second generation NX, in contrast, was a direct Q5 and GLC rival, also taking on cars like the BMW X3 and the Jaguar F-PACE on equal terms. A key change for this MK2 model was the availability of a Plug-in Hybrid option, something no Lexus in history had previously ever provided. Most customers though, stick with the standard NX 350h model's self-charging Hybrid powertrain. In mid-2024, Lexus announced a package of mid-term NX updates, creating the car we look at here.

Driving Experience

As you might already be aware, there are two distinct versions of the NX, full-Hybrid or PHEV. Most will want the more affordable full-Hybrid self-charging 350h version, with a powertrain that you can't plug in but which can run fully electrically, independently of the combustion unit for some of the time, a formula still ignored by all this car's most direct Crossover rivals. That drive format uses a fourth generation Hybrid system retaining the previous AZ10 model's 2.5-litre four cylinder format, but offering 24% more power, which means 241bhp beneath your right foot. With a self-charging Hybrid NX, there's a choice between having a front-driven model - or the AWD 'E-FOUR' version, which is slightly quicker, making 62mph from rest in 7.7s. The AWD version gains its extra acceleration courtesy of the addition of a second electric motor driving the rear axle and producing a further 53bhp. With the alternative NX 450h+ plug-in variant, which has to be had with the AWD system, total output is raised to 305bhp to compensate for the extra 180kg weight of the PHEV system's big 18.1kWh battery. That delivers an impressive potential EV driving range of up to 47 miles. Whichever flavour of NX you prefer, this second generation model has been engineered to deliver what the brand calls its 'Lexus Driving Signature', a supposedly ideal combination of comfort and handling dynamics apparently honed by professional racing drivers. You shouldn't get your hopes up too high here, but this does actually represent quite a step forward by Lexus standards. The reasons why lie with 30% more body rigidity from this MK2 model's GA-K chassis, plus 20% faster steering responses and a fresh suspension design, which can be had with 'AVS' 'Adaptive Variable Suspension' adaptive damping if you opt for an 'F-Sport' model.

Design and Build

This second generation NX takes the styling themes established with the brand's smaller UX crossover and interprets them into a slightly larger size, with various cues from the first generation AZ10-era NX model. Owners of the original car might notice and find familiarity with the complex side surfacing, the signature Lexus front grille and the 'kick up' around the rear C-pillar. There's a neat tailgate arrangement that sees the rear lamps adopt a slim wraparound signature over the rear bodywork. Most significantly, this MK2 NX is quite a lot larger than its pre-2021-era predecessor. The overall length is 4,660mm (20mm more than the old MK1 version), making this car only about 2cm shorter than an Audi Q5. This NX is now also 20mm wider and 5mm taller than its original predecessor. Under the skin is the same TNGA-K chassis used in the Toyota RAV4. Inside, the cabin features big screens which discard the old much-criticised previous touchpad system. The standard centre screen offering - 'Lexus Link Connect' - is 9.8-inches in size. Alternatively, there's the top 14-inch 'Lexus Link Pro' set-up. Around the cabin, there's the brand's 'Tazona' cockpit design with its high-quality materials and a dashboard that curves towards the driver's seat. Lexus has also included touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel. The back seat offers class competitive space for two adults. And on most variants, there's a decently sized 525-litre boot (it's 521-litres with a 350h FWD model). The mainstream versions offer 1,436-litres with the rear bench folded.

Market and Model

Expect a starting price for the NX 350h self-charging AWD model of around £45,000 in base form, with prices up to around £60,000. With the 350h, the equipment grades are base 'Urban', then 'Premium', 'Premium Plus', 'F Sport', F Sport Takumi' and 'Takumi' and within these, there are various pack options you can specify. You'll be paying quite a lot more for an NX 450h+ Plug-in Hybrid model - in the £50,000-£60,000 bracket. You do at least get lots of equipment for these asking figures. Even base 'Urban'-spec includes 18-inch wheels, wireless 'Apple CarPlay'/'Android Auto', a 10-speaker audio system, a powered tailgate, all-round parking sensors and heated front seats. Across the range, there's the latest Lexus Link Connect multimedia package with a 9.8-inch touchscreen that meets customer priorities for fast, intuitive on-board connectivity. It incorporates smart services, including a cloud-based navigation system, via the car's data connection module (DCM). This provides real-time journey information and traffic updates without using up the customer's data plan. There is also an intuitive "Hey Lexus" assistant, which responds to natural voice commands, as if you are conversing with the car. This NX was Lexus's first model to feature the third generation of Lexus Safety System+, equipping it as standard with a comprehensive package of active safety and driver assistance features. These include further expansion of the brand's Pre-Collision System capabilities so that motorcycles and some solid objects in the car's path, such as trees, walls and utility poles, can be detected. It also includes a function that identifies collision risks with oncoming traffic or crossing pedestrians when making a turn at a junction.

Cost of Ownership

Improvements made to this car's fourth generation self-charging Hybrid system have enabled CO2 emissions to drop by about 10% compared to the previous generation model, which gives the front driven NX 350h variant an emissions reading of up to 129g/km and up to 49.5mpg on the combined cycle. It's up to 130g/km and 47.0mpg for the 350h AWD. Lexus expects the NX 450h+ Plug-in variant to deliver CO2 emissions of up to 21g/km and up to 313.8mpg (yes, really). With the NX 450h+ PHEV variant, you can set charging times is by using the provided 'Lexus Link' app, which also allows you to set charging schedules according to when the vehicle is next expected to be driven - or when energy prices are low. Via this app, you can also defrost the windows and either pre-heat or pre-cool the cabin before you reach the car, so you won't have to spend climate system energy doing so once you're underway. The LexusLink app additionally allows NX 450h+ owners to check battery charge and driving range - and find public charging stations in the 'Lexus Charging Network' - there are about 160,000 of them across Europe, with around 30,000 of those in the UK. NX 450+ charging takes 2 hours 45 mins from a 7kW garage wallbox - or 8 hours 15 minutes from a domestic plug. As for after-sales, there's the usual three year vehicle warranty, which you can extend by a further year with every service at a Lexus dealer - up to a maximum of ten years. There's also five year/100,000 cover on drivetrain defects.

Summary

The NX has been a very significant car for Lexus, the first generation version generating over 170,000 European sales, most of them customers new to Lexus. This second generation model, 95% of which is completely new, is tasked with continuing that the brand's growth across Western markets. So Lexus needs the NX - and needs it to do well. For that to happen, this car has to offer more than the traditional attributes that spring to mind when you think of this brand, things like reliability, quality, refinement, technology and great dealer back up. Of course, the company's proud of the reputation it's built upon these virtues, but it's well aware that for this model to succeed against well-established rivals like those from BMW, Volvo, Mercedes and Audi, worthiness isn't enough. Lexus needs desirability. It needs design flair. It needs excitement. It needs..... an X-factor. Take a close look at this enhanced NX and increasingly, you find yourself agreeing that this is just what's on offer here. That might not necessarily mean you'll want one. It's obviously not intended for the few who regularly want to get their tyres muddy in this segment. Nor will it really suit family-minded driving enthusiasts. And the NX may still be a little too individual to sell in the kind of numbers its maker would like - but then that's all part of its appeal. It's not perfect but it's never boring. And in a market sector that's getting just that little bit stale, it's a breath of fresh air.

Body Glass

Rear wiper

Front and rear one touch power windows, with anti-jam protection

Rain sensor windscreen wipers

Privacy glass, rear doors and tailgate

Brakes

Anti-lock brake system

Electronic parking brake

Hill assist control

Electronic Brakeforce Distribution + Brake Assist

ECB (Electronically Controlled Brake System)

Traction control

Carpets/Rugs

Front and rear textile carpet mats

Chassis/Suspension

Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM)

Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)

Communication

Bluetooth telephone connectivity

Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

Lexus link connect - Cloud based navigation, cloud based voice assistant, always online, 14" HD touchscreen, embedded nav and faster CPU

Wireless Smartphone charger

Driver Aids

Lane change flasher function

Electric speed sensitive power steering

Intelligent parking sensors - 4 front and 4 rear with object and pedestrain detection

Blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert

Reversing camera with back guidelines

Driver Convenience

Tailgate

eCall emergency system

Push button starter

Driver Information

Service interval indicator

7" display in instrument binnacle

Driving Mirrors

Auto dimming interior rear view mirror

Heated and auto folding door mirrors

Embellishment Trims

3D prism black Inlay

Organic inlay

Entertainment

10 speakers

DAB Digital radio

4 USB ports - 2 front, one USB C, 2 rear USB C

Exterior Body Features

Illuminated door handles with puddle light

Power back door system

Double hidden exhaust pipes

Fixed panoramic roof

Black roof

Roof rails

Rear side wing doors

Exterior Lights

Automatic headlights

LED cornering lights

LED brake lights and rear lights with emergency brake signal

LED Indicators

LED front fog lights

LED low beam and Hi-beam headlight

LED daytime running lights

Heating/Cooling/Ventilation

Dual climate control air conditioning system

Interior Features

12V accessory port centre console and luggage compartment

Power adjustable leather steering wheel with paddle shifts

Rear centre armrest with 2 cupholders

2 x fixed shopping bag hooks in boot

4 x tie down hooks in the boot

2 cupholders in front centre console

Premium Tahara leather upholstery

Heated steering wheel

Card holder installed in driver and passengers sun visors

Centre armrest with storage box

Interior Lights

Ambient light in 64 colours

LED interior illumination

Safety

Lexus safety system - dynamic radar cruise control, pre collision system day and night, lane tracing assist, road sign, automatic high beam, OTA

Front center airbag

E-Latch with safe exit assist

Front and rear curtain shield airbags

Manual rear child locks

3x3 point rear seat belts

Adjustable seat belt anchor points

Driver and front passenger 2 stage airbag

Tyre pressure warning

3 point ELR front seatbelts with pretensioners

Driver/front passenger side airbags

Front passenger seat cushion airbag

Passenger airbag cut-off device

Drivers knee airbag

Seats

Front passenger seat

Heated front seats

8 way driver/passenger electrically adjustable front seats

Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) feature (active headrest) for seats

3 seat bench in 2nd row

60/40 split folding rear seat

Adjustable rear seat backrest

Front and rear head restraints

Security

Anti-theft system with alarm, intrusion sensor, glass breakage sensor, tilt sensor and engine immobiliser

Speed sensitive auto door locking

VIN Window etching

Ultra Wide Band (UWB) Anti-theft system

Locking wheel nuts

Smart entry ( front/rear/boot)

Transmission

Hybrid automatic transmission

All Wheel Drive (AWD)

Vanity Mirrors

2 x sun visors with vanity mirror and lamp

Wheels - Spare

Tyre repair kit

Electric Vehicle Data

Battery Capacity in kWh: 1.1

Battery Type: Lithium-ion

Emissions - ICE

Standard Euro Emissions: EURO 6

Noise Level dB(A): 67

NOx: 0.001

HC+NOx: N

Particles: 0.0002

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Low: 142

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Medium: 116

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - High: 118

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Extra High: 164

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb: 137

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Low - TEL: 142

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Low - TEH: 149

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Medium - TEL: 116

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Medium - TEH: 126

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - High - TEL: 118

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - High - TEH: 127

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Extra High - TEL: 164

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Extra High - TEH: 172

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEH: 146

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEL: 137

Engine and Drive Train

Cylinders - Bore (mm): 87.5

Cylinders - Stroke (mm): 103.4

CC: 2487

Cylinders: 4

Cylinder Layout: IN-LINE

Number of Valves: 16

Camshaft: DOHC

Fuel Delivery: MULTI POINT FUEL INJECTION

Catalytic Convertor: No

Engine Layout: FRONT TRANSVERSE

Compression Ratio: 14.0:1

Transmission: AUTO

Gears: 1 SPEED

Fuel Consumption - ICE

EC Directive 1999/100/EC Applies: 0

WLTP - MPG - Low: 44.8

WLTP - MPG - Medium: 55.3

WLTP - MPG - High: 54.3

WLTP - MPG - Extra High: 39.2

WLTP - MPG - Comb: 46.3

WLTP - MPG - Low - TEL: 44.8

WLTP - MPG - Low - TEH: 42.8

WLTP - MPG - Medium - TEL: 55.3

WLTP - MPG - Medium - TEH: 50.4

WLTP - MPG - High - TEL: 54.3

WLTP - MPG - High - TEH: 50.4

WLTP - MPG - Extra High - TEL: 39.2

WLTP - MPG - Extra High - TEH: 37.1

WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEL: 46.3

WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEH: 44.1

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low: 6.3

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium: 5.1

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High: 5.2

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High: 7.2

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb: 6.1

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low - TEL: 6.3

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low - TEH: 6.6

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium - TEL: 5.1

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium - TEH: 5.6

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High - TEL: 5.2

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High - TEH: 5.6

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High - TEL: 7.2

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High - TEH: 7.6

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEL: 6.1

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEH: 6.4

General

Coin Series: Prem [LL Pro/Pan Rf]

Coin Description: h

Standard manufacturers warranty - Years: 3

Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage: 60000

Manufacturers Paintwork Guarantee - Years: 3

Manufacturers Corrosion Perforation Guarantee - Years: 12

Did at least one aspect of this vehicle's safety give cause for concern?: 0

Special Edition: 0

Special Order: 0

Based On ID: N

Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07: 36E

Service Interval Mileage: 10000

Service Interval Frequency - Months: 12

NCAP Adult Occupant Protection %: 91

NCAP Child Occupant Protection %: 87

NCAP Pedestrian Protection %: 83

NCAP Safety Assist %: 91

NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09: 5

Badge Power: 243

Badge Engine CC: 2.5

Vehicle Homologation Class: M1

Generation Mark: 2

Alternative Fuel Qualifying: No

Performance

0 to 62 mph (secs): 7.7

Top Speed: 124

Engine Power - BHP: 243

Engine Power - PS: No

0 to 60 mph (secs): 0

Engine Power - KW: 179

Engine Power - RPM: 6000

Engine Torque - LBS.FT: 176

Engine Torque - NM: 239

Engine Torque - RPM: 4300

Engine Torque - MKG: 24.4

Test Cycles

Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP

RDE Certification Level: RDE 2

Tyres

Tyre Size Front: 235/60 R18

Tyre Size Rear: 235/60 R18

Tyre Size Spare: TYRE REPAIR KIT

Wheel Type: 18" ALLOY

Wheel Style: N

Alloys?: No

Space Saver?: 0

Vehicle Dimensions

Length: 4660

Width: 1865

Wheelbase: 2690

Width (including mirrors): N

Height: 1640

Weight and Capacities

Minimum Kerbweight: 1730

Gross Vehicle Weight: 2320

Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 55

Max. Towing Weight - Braked: 1500

Max. Towing Weight - Unbraked: 750

Max. Loading Weight: 590

Luggage Capacity (Seats Up): 520

No. of Seats: 5

Luggage Capacity (Seats Down): 1411

Turning Circle - Kerb to Kerb: 11.6

Exterior Body Features

Side steps

Special metallic paint

Metallic paint

Interior Features

Black interior roof

Grey interior roof

Illuminated scuff plates

Packs

Design Pack in Chrome - NX

Protection Pack with rubber floor mats - NX

Style Pack with front underrun - NX

Paint - Metallic

Metallic - Celestial blue

Metallic - Terrane khaki

Metallic - Graphite black

Paint - Solid

Solid - Fuji red

Solid - Velvet black

Paint - Special

Special metallic - Sonic grey

Special metallic - Sonic copper

Special metallic - Sonic white

Special metallic - Sonic titanium

Towing

Towing (13Pin)

Trim - Leather

Premium Tahara leather - Black with black Instrument Panel

Premium Tahara leather - Dark rose with black Instrument Panel

Wheels - Alloy

18"10 machined black alloy wheels