Anthony FongaroA few years ago, Lexus introduced the current-generation NX compact SUV. One of the additions to the line-up is a plug-in hybrid. This added to the NX’s appeal of being a smooth and luxurious Lexus. With this PHEV, I’ve tested every NX on the market, and the NX continues to prioritize what is important for this type of vehicle. Lexus also gave the NX 450h+ some genuine electric range, with a claimed 37 miles of EV range. Things seem to be going well, but a price point of over $64,000 does seem a little high. Is the 450h+ the NX you should look at, or should consumers move towards the regular hybrid?
Similar to most Lexus, the NX has Lexus’ signature spindle grille in black. Angular LED lights are flanked by lower air vents. Although the design is more soft than that of the previous generation NX, this NX is still handsome and has a sporty-looking body. This NX 450h+ came in Nori Green Pearl paint complimented by black 20-inch wheels. There are two fuel ports, one for fuel and one for charging the plug-in system. At the rear, the NX has a full-length taillight with an integrated spoiler. Lexus is spelled out in the middle of the powered tailgate with NX 450h+ badges. It’s still a handsome vehicle, and things get better inside.
Inside, this NX 450h+ came with Macadamia Leather along with black open-pore wood trim, which gave the interior a high luxury feeling. In front of the driver is a mostly un-labeled steering wheel, which combines with the head-up display to show what the buttons do. These are used for safety systems, media, and digital displays. The digital display gives plenty of information, but it isn’t as customizable as its rivals. What helps is the large head-up display. Next to the driver is a crisp 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Climate controls are on the same screen but under the main display. It works easily and Lexus includes physical dials for temperature.
Material quality is quite high, and the seats are very comfortable. Included with this NX is a heated steering wheel, heated seats throughout the cabin, and front ventilated seats. There was a wireless charger, but it didn’t always charge my phone. Simple buttons for the camera, drive mode selector, and hybrid options are within easy reach. One of my favorite buttons is an EV charge button, where you can charge the batteries while using the gas engine. Trunk space is good but not the biggest in the segment. Every Lexus should come with the optional Mark Levinson sound system. It has plenty of bass and treble. Including a panoramic roof, the NX 450h+ has a high-quality and luxurious interior.
Powering the NX 450h+ is a 2.5-liter inline-four with three AC motors and an 18.1-kWh battery pack. Combined, the powertrain produces 302 horsepower and some amount of torque. With an all-wheel drive and an eCVT transmission, the NX 450h+ accelerates from 0-60 MPH in 5.5 seconds. This engine has plenty of power and 37 miles of EV range means most commutes can be done in comfort and quiet. There are a few drive modes, including eco, sport, normal, and EV. I found myself driving mostly in normal. The ride quality is very goo,d with the NX gliding over bumps. It may not be made for hard handling, but the NX corners well enough. In hybrid mode, I achieved 35 MPG with a full range of over 450 miles.
Safety comes from Lexus’ Safety Sense, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, cross-traffic alert, and 360-degree camera. The NX starts at $42,000 for a front-wheel-drive 250. This NX 450h+ starts at around $62,000. Add $1,000 for the Mark Levinson sound system, $500 for the panoramic roof, $800 for a panoramic view camera, and $75 for a wireless charger. All in, this came out to around $65,000. Although this is a competitively-priced vehicle, I would save $10,000 and opt for the regular NX 350h hybrid. With that, you lose the 37 miles of EV range, but you still get a handsome SUV with a luxurious interior and high-quality materials.
I have been considering the NX for awhile now, since it has been out a few years, my wife likes it, but I want something bigger. Thanks for all the write ups on this SUV, it is helpful.