Plug-in hybrid technology for new 2022 Lexus NX
A new Lexus NX SUV is set to arrive at the end of 2021, with upgrades including the option of a plug-in hybrid powertrain for the first time in a Lexus. This will sit alongside the ‘self-charging’ hybrid setup, and the next-generation NX is expected to cost from around £38,000.
It will sit on the TNGA-K platform currently underpinning the Toyota RAV4, giving the NX slightly larger dimensions than it has today. The new model is 20mm longer, 20mm wider and 5mm taller, while a 30mm increase in wheelbase should improve legroom for rear passengers. Badged NX 450h+, Lexus’ first plugin hybrid (PHEV) will have a powertrain closely related to the one seen in the RAV4 and Suzuki Across. It’s based around a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with 182bhp, along with a 180bhp front electric motor and 54bhp rear motor. Its combined maximum output is 302bhp, giving it a 0-62mph figure of 6.0 seconds.
With an 18.1kWh battery, the NX 450h+ can manage up to 40 miles on electric power alone, at speeds of up to 84mph. Lexus is targeting 94mpg and CO2 emissions of less than 40g/km. When the battery is depleted, the NX 450h+ acts as a ‘self-charging hybrid system’, with efficiency up to 20% better than rivals, according to Lexus.
Improvements have also been made to the NX 350h, which doesn’t require plugging in and now uses ‘fourth generation’ hybrid technology. Power has increased to 239bhp, cutting the 0-62mph dash to 7.7 seconds. CO2 emissions are also expected to be reduced by around 10%, which will be available with front- and four-wheel drive, and can tow up to 1,500kg. The NX retains its distinctive angular looks and ‘spindle’ front grille, but gains new rear ‘blade lighting’ that spans the width of the vehicle. The rear ‘L’ roundel has also been swapped for ‘Lexus’ script across the boot for a ‘more modern’ look.
Bigger changes are afoot inside, thanks to a new Takzuna cockpit design for Lexus. This places the instrument display, infotainment screen and head-up display closer together, so they can be read at a glance. Higher specification cars will get a Lexus Link Pro infotainment setup, with a 14-inch display, while lower versions will have a 9.8-inch display, and owners will be able to use ‘Hey Lexus’ to wake up a new voice-controlled assistant. Another first is ‘e-latch’, replacing traditional interior door handles with electronic push buttons. This has the benefit of being linked with the blind-spot monitor, because it can keep the door locked momentarily if a vehicle or cyclist is approaching from the rear, helping to avoid accidents.
The NX will also mark the arrival of the third generation of Lexus Safety System+, which can now better recognise motorcycles and objects such as trees, walls and pylons. It can also help identify potential collisions when turning at junctions, detect hazards more quickly and help avoid collisions with the arrival of Emergency Steering Assistant. Lexus claims it can now help avoid 36% more accident scenarios than before.