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All-new 2022 Lexus NX: Luxury, looks, and lots of power options

Lexus NX 350 F Sport.

 

 

With four different engine configurations (one basic, one turbo, and two hybrids) and luxury, tech, and good looks for miles, the all-new 2022 Lexus NX has something sweet and something savory for most buyers in the market for a high-end compact SUV.

"The 2022 NX includes the most technological vehicle changes since we launched Lexus 32 years ago," said Vinay Shahani, Lexus vice president of marketing. "With the all-new Lexus Interface multimedia system and a variety of customizable features, NX is an exciting first step in a series of 20 all-new or updated Lexus vehicles by 2025."

With a lower center of gravity and stronger stance, the NX 250 is the 8-speed, 203-hp base model that comes with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gas engine providing 184 lb-ft of torque. It has start/stop functionality and is available in both FWD and AWD options.

The 8-speed NX 350 is the mid-range model that comes with a 275-hp 2.4-liter turbo gas engine with 317 lb-ft of torque. It has a 0 to 60 time of 6.8 sec, which is a half-second quicker than the previous model.

Next up is the NX 350h, a hybrid option that pairs the D4-S fuel-injection 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine with two high-torque electric drive motor-generators for strong acceleration and passing performance. Instead of transfer gears and a driveshaft to the rear wheels, the AWD system employs a second, independent electric motor to drive the rear wheels when it detects it is needed to help maintain optimal traction. This setup produces 239 hp (a 20% increase over the current model) and a manufacturer estimated 36 mpg (an increase of 6 mpg over the current model).

At the top end, the NX450h+ features the new plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) system that has a manufacturer-estimated 36-mile range on electric power only, made possible by the newly developed, high-capacity lithium-ion battery. Lexus says this system achieves the EV output equivalent to a 2.0-liter engine. When combined with the newly developed hybrid transaxle, a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine delivers an estimated 6.0-sec 0 to 60 time. This model's high-output, high-efficiency system was designed to reduce power loss when converting from AC power to DC power, which results in shorter charging times. Using the maximum charging current of 240 V, the Lexus NX plug-in hybrid can be fully charged in approximately 2.5 hr when equipped with the optional 6.6-kW Expedited Onboard Charger. With the standard 3.3-kW on board charger, charge time goes up slightly to 4.5 hours. This model employs an electronically controlled, full-time AWD system.

There is also an F SPORT Handing model option (shown in the main images of this article, and our pick as the coolest option) available for both the turbo and PHEV powertrains. F SPORT turns up the driving dynamics with a sporty feel that is amplified by the Active Variable Suspension (AVS) and front and rear performance dampers. It features perforated interior trim in Black and Circuit Red NuLuxe and can be combined with a Luxury package that adds a 14-in. touchscreen, unique headlamps, and 64-color interior illumination. There is also a dedicated F SPORT grille and unique front/rear bumpers, 20-in. gloss black aluminum wheels, color-key over-fenders, and black roof rails.

Design-wise, from the refined spindle grille to the new full-width blade taillamps and LEXUS rear badging, the all-new 2022 Lexus NX looks powerful yet refined. There's a new batch of fresh NX colors available, including Redline, Cloudburst Gray, and Grecian Water. For colors exclusive to F SPORT models, the palette includes Ultra White, Obsidian, and Ultra Sonic Blue Mica 2.0.

In a first for the NX, the panoramic moonroof gives both the front and rear passengers the ability to see the sky with just the push of a button.

The NX's driver-centered cockpit has been meticulously redesigned, including a 7-in. Multi Instrument Display and optional 10-in. Head Up Display (both NX firsts). Most driving-related functions are concentrated on the steering wheel to allow for intuitive operation while keeping the driver's eyes on the road.

In the center stack, the standard 9.8-in. touchscreen puts an array of multimedia features within easy reach. The optional 14-in. touch screen, a first for NX, delivers an immersive multimedia experience. Dial controls remain for frequently used functions.

The Lexus Interface incorporates a new Virtual Assistant developed with a human-centered approach. The Virtual Assistant is intended to be the primary way guests interact with the new multimedia system. Designed with dual microphones, enhanced noise cancellation, seat detection, and speaker location capabilities, the system enables a voice-first approach allowing front seat occupants an expanded and interactive experience to access navigation, media, phone, and certain vehicle settings such as climate control and window opening/closing. The Lexus Interface also offers available over-the-air updates, wireless charging, and untethered smart phone connection to the user's unique profile.

Also new for NX is the introduction of the standard Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including Blind Spot Monitor. Additionally, Safe Exit Assist and an innovative Digital Latch system are designed to make exiting the vehicle more safe. The all-new Digital Latch system enables doors to open smoothly at the touch of a button when entering or exiting the vehicle. And by scanning the environment, Safe Exit Assist alerts the driver and passengers to avoid the risk of accidental contact with vehicles and cyclists.

The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 includes: Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Left Turn Oncoming Vehicle Detection/Braking, Right/Left Turn Oncoming Pedestrian Detection/Braking, Oncoming Vehicle Detection (added to the Pre-Collision System), and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management. New system additions include: Road Sign Assist, Pre-collision System, Lane Assistance, Intelligent High Beams, and Road Sign Assist.

NX450h+ hybrid shown in blue.

 

 

The all-new 2022 NX will start production in the third quarter of 2021. Pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date. Pricing for 2021 models starts between $37,430 and $45,460 to give interested parties some context.

Learn more at lexus.com/nextNX.

Source: Lexus

Published July 2021

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