Lexus NX cars

About the Lexus NX

The NX first came out in 2014 and was the brand’s first attempt at making a plug-in hybrid. Before that, the Japanese carmaker had produced a successful line of self-charging hybrid models, but this was the next step forward. 

The NX became its best-selling model in the UK shortly after its release. It offers sharp and modern styling, an excellent interior with really comfy seats and high levels of fuel efficiency thanks to its modern engines and clever hybrid system. 

The NX’s main petrol rivals are the Audi Q5, BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, whereas its electric rivals are the BMW iX3, Jaguar I-Pace and Mercedes EQC. 

There are six different trim levels on offer for NX models: 300; 300 F Sport; 300 Luxury; 300h AWD; 300h Luxury AWD; and the range-topping 300h F Sport AWD Black Line Special Edition, which might also have the world’s longest car name to match its long list of features. 

What are the Lexus NX's features?

Inside, the NX offers a very modern cabin that wouldn’t look out of place inside a spaceship. Its large centre display and sharp edges make it look really upmarket. 

Powering much of what the car is capable of is Lexus’s Link Connect infotainment system, which is viewed on either a 9.8-inch (on entry-level models) or a huge 14-inch display for top-spec model variants. 

Other features include voice recognition, over-the-air system updates, and sat nav, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Some models also come with the uprated 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system for that extra boost in audio quality. 

The rear seats offer plenty of room, even for taller adults, while the NX has a 521-litre boot, which positions it well among its rivals. This grows to 1,436 litres when the rear seats are folded flat. 

What’s even better is that the full-fat NX PHEV doesn’t compromise on boot space because Lexus has been smart and has hidden it elsewhere. 

What's the Lexus NX like to drive?

The NX is badged as Lexus’s first-ever plug-in hybrid – and it is, but it's also available as a self-charging hybrid.  

The latter is called the 350h and is powered by the same four-cylinder petrol engine as the 450h+ PHEV, but instead of relying on electricity, the electric motor is powered by the engine. 

As you can probably guess, the NX 450h+ is the same, except you plug that one in to charge and therefore offers an electric-only range of up to 47 miles, which is very impressive. 

Both variants offer 244hp and 309hp respectively and all-wheel drive capabilities due to the hybrid systems. 

If you tend to do longer journeys, the 350h would be best because it's more efficient on the motorway as it doesn’t have a battery that can run out and add extra weight to lug around. 

If you drive shorter distances then the PHEV will be the one for you, because you’ll most likely be able to do your work commute on electric power alone – perfect if you live or work in a city.