June 12th 2021
Lexus’ second best-selling vehicle in American has entered its second generation. Meet the 2022 Lexus NX featuring a new styling, an updated infotainment system and a wider range of powertrains comprising a new turbo four-cylinder gasoline and a freshly accessible plug-in hybrid model.
The entry-level NX250 comes with a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre inline-four taken from the RAV4 generating 203 hp and 184 pound-feet of torque. The engine mates to an eight-speed automatic transmission powering the front- or all wheels.
Those seeking more power in a hybrid package can opt for the NX350h. It is powered by a 2.5-litre gasoline engine and two electric motor-generators creating 239 horsepower. It is 20 hp extra than the RAV4 hybrid. The company estimates it can deliver 36 mpg.
The NX350 houses a new turbo 2.4-litre inline-four good for 275 hp and 317 pound-feet of torque. It is more powerful and quicker than the old NX300 housing turbo 2.0-litre engine. The NX350’s mill also pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
At the top of the lineup sits the NX450h+ plug-in-hybrid. It uses the same all-wheel-drive 302-horsepower drivetrain, which we find in the RAV4 Prime. Lexus estimates the range-topping model can deliver 36 miles of drive range, which is 6 miles less than the RAV4 Prime’s EPA-estimated rating.
In the design department, Lexus decided not to meddle much with the winning recipe. The spindle grille pattern looks better incorporated this time. At the rear, the 2022 Lexus NX has an updated “Lexus” script.
Inside, the automaker did a great job by introducing a totally fresh infotainment display. It’s nice to see a new touchscreen instead of a touchpad controller. A 9.8-inch screen is standard, whereas a big 14.0-inch touchscreen is elective. The automaker has also extended the legroom and cargo room. However, they didn’t specify the dimensions.
Lexus provides buyers of NX350 and NX450h+ an option of the F Sport package. It is a styling package that comes with dark trim and black 20-inch wheels together with adaptive dampers. New facilities comprise a panoramic sunroof, heated rear seats, and an updated driver-assistance system. The latter consists of a tech that averts the occupant to open the door from inside if it senses a bicyclist or any other vehicle is coming.
While the company didn’t mention the pricing details, we believe the 2022 Lexus NX will be costlier than before. The ongoing model costs $38,635 at least for front-wheel-drive NX300 and $41,185 for the all-wheel-drive NX300h hybrid.
The 2022 Lexus NX will hit the roads this fall.
Source and Images: CarandDriver