Lexus NX will be brand's first plug-in hybrid

Lexus takes a step toward realizing the brand’s next chapter as it officially unveils its first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), the NX.

The all-new NX SUV is the first of the company’s next-gen models and will help Toyota’s luxury car division transition to more carbon-neutral offerings.

Lexus says that on top of the PHEV model, the next-gen NX will be made available in various powertrain options including a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) model equipped with a high-capacity battery, a newly developed 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine, and a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine.

In addition, all-wheel drive (AWD) will be available on PHEV and 2.4-liter turbo powertrain models, while both AWD and front-wheel drive (FWD) will be available on HEV and 2.5-liter naturally aspirated powertrain models.

Lexus International Chief Engineer Takeaki Kato said, "The development of the new NX was a series of new challenges for Lexus… professional racing drivers conducted an evaluation test drive at the Shimoyama test course to thoroughly train the car's body structure and control the driving force to inherit and evolve the Lexus driving flavor.”

“The powertrain lineup is diverse, including Lexus' first PHEV, a newly developed 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, and a newly developed electronically controlled full-time AWD, as well as a number of advanced technologies and a new generation of multimedia,” added Kato.

At a glance, the NX sports an extended bonnet. A raised grille is said to enable more airflow and improve the performance of NX’s radiator. The grille is flanked by black headlamps with L-shaped DRLs.

The NX features an elongated light bar that bridges the similarly L-shaped rear combination lamps. It also sports a revised branding, to be adopted by other next-gen models, in the center of the rear hatch.

Using the new GA-K platform, the next-gen NX SUV benefits from a lightweight, highly rigid body with a low center of gravity.

Inside, the prestige SUV will feature Lexus’ “Touch Tracer Operation,” a method that combines the head-up display with touch sensors on the steering wheel. In addition, the new NX will also come with a newly developed shift lever.

A 14-inch touch display sits at the center of the dashboard that features a newly developed in-vehicle navigation system and a cloud navigation system. The multi-media system is equipped with a new web browser and is compatible with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Baidu.

Performance and safety upgrades will be made possible through over-the-air software updates.

In terms of safety, the next-gen NX is outfitted with the latest Lexus Safety System + which includes pre-crash safety, front cross-traffic alert, and radar cruise control as well as lane departure alert, lane tracing assist, lane change assist, road sign assist, launch delay notification function, and proactive driving assist.

Lexus will also feature its new e-latch system in the all-new NX.

An F Sport trim will also be made available, says Lexus, which adds sportier exterior features including special 20-inch alloy wheels, a spoiler on the lower bumper, and front-side garnishes. The interior also receives the same sporty treatment with a dedicated steering wheel, front seats, aluminum pedals, and shift levers designed to enhance the image of driving performance.

Production of the new NX will begin in the third quarter of 2021 says Lexus.

Photos from Lexus

Also read: 

Lexus to unveil all-new NX SUV on June 12

Inside inspiration: Artists reimagine the Lexus LF-Z Electrified's interior

Sporty spice: Lexus unveils 2022 IS 500 F Sport Performance Launch Edition