2 years ago

Overview
After sitting back and watching the rest of the luxury-subcompact SUV scene mature over the past few years, the Lexus NX is getting back in the game with a modernization of its own. The 2022 model is completely new and its styling is more streamlined than the outgoing generation's, featuring LED headlamps and a windshield with a more aggressive rake. Although the NX shares its chassis and powertrains with the Toyota RAV4, the Lexus more closely resembles the brand's small UX crossover, albeit taller and wider. Lexus offers the 2022 model with two different gasoline-powered engines and also two different hybrids, one of which is a plug-in. The freshly minted 2022 NX poses a bigger threat to rival small luxury-brand SUVs—namely the Audi Q3, the BMW X1, and the Mercedes-Benz GLA-class—than its predecessor did.

What's New for 2022?
Lexus has completely redesigned its subcompact SUV for the 2022 model year. It is scheduled to arrive in U.S. dealerships in fall, 2021.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
NX250 $39,025
NX350h $42,125
NX350 $42,625
NX350 F Sport $47,725
NX450h+ $56,725
NX450h+ F Sport $57,975

The redesigned NX kicks off with a starting price under $40,000, but that base model may be too spartan for some luxury shoppers. Selecting the mid-range NX350 brings a new 275-hp turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder, which offers more performance. We'd suggest adding the Luxury package, which includes premium equipment such as the larger 14.0-inch infotainment display, quilted leather upholstery, cloud-connected navigation, upgraded interior ambient lighting, 20-inch wheels, four-way adjustable lumbar support for the driver, and adaptive headlamps. For buyers looking for a more menacing appearance and more performance upgrades, the NX350 F Sport is similarly priced and also available with the Luxury package.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Unlike the last-generation model, which was offered with either of two engines, the 2022 NX has four powertrain options. The base NX250 model comes with a 203-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder while the NX350 is powered by a 275-hp turbocharged 2.4-liter; both come with an eight-speed automatic, but while the NX250 can be had with either front- or all-wheel drive, the NX350 has all-wheel drive standard. Two different hybrid options are on the menu, starting with the NX350h, which pairs two electric motors with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder for 239 horsepower. The more exciting option is the top-spec NX450h+, which borrows its 302-hp plug-in hybrid powertrain from the RAV4 Prime. Both hybrids come standard with all-wheel drive. Our first test drive was with a mid-range NX350 which snapped off a reasonably brisk 6.6-second zero-to-60-mph run. While it didn't blow us away with its handling prowess, we noted that the NX's ride was compliant and with enough prodding we were able to have a few back road thrills. The F Sport trim comes with an adaptive suspension system that firms up the ride and delivers a bit more poise, but even so, the NX isn't on the same footing as the X1 when attacking twisty tarmac.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
There's no word yet from the EPA on the 2022 NX's fuel-economy ratings. Nor have we had the chance to test the redesigned SUV on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test route. Lexus claims the plug-in NX450h+ will offer up to 36 miles of electric driving per charge, but the EPA has not weighed in on that estimate yet. When the new NX shows up to our office for testing, we'll update this story with results. For more information about the NX's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Cabin design takes a big leap forward with the new NX, with a more modern look and classier materials. The outgoing model offered one of the more spacious cabins in the luxury-subcompact crossover segment, but the new model offers slightly more passenger room in the rear seat, although cargo space with the rear seats folded is slightly less generous than the outgoing model. Optional features include a panoramic sunroof, heated rear seats, an ambient interior lighting system with 64 different color choices, and black open-pore wood trim.

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