HybridsLexus LXRumors

LX 750h Rumored As Lexus’ Hybrid Flagship SUV

Posted by Gecko on June 21st, 2021

As the debut of the next-generation Lexus LX SUV looms ever closer and the Land Cruiser J300 is now fully revealed, rumors and speculation about the range-topping Lexus SUV are heating up. The latest insight comes again from Creative Trend, a Japanese car blog and website.

Creative Trend offers a few interesting nuggets:

  • In addition to the previously mentioned LX 600, a range-topping LX 750h will come as the LX line’s flagship model. If rumors are to be believed, the LX 750h could arrive packing the 3.5L twin-turbo V6 mated to a hybrid system and produce a system total of 480 horsepower and 642 lb-ft of torque.
  • The core LX 600 is expected to produce 410 horsepower and 480 lb-ft from just the 3.5L twin-turbo V6 alone.
  • Ordering for the new LX will begin in September 2021 and ordering for the current model has ended as Lexus clears out inventory to prepare for the new model.
  • Based on rumors, the LX is expected to evolve into a super luxury trim of the Land Cruiser.
  • Infotainment will be an upgraded version of Lexus Interface, first seen on the 2022 NX, but on a 17-inch, even higher definition screen.
  • The fourth generation LX will be the first to employ a fingerprint authentification starting button as an additional security measure.

To stay up to date with the latest LX news, join the discussion in the Lexus Enthusiast community forum.

EventsFeaturesLexus NX: Second Generation

First Impressions: The 2022 NX In Person

Posted by Gecko on June 17th, 2021

You’ve probably seen the new NX by now, whether you watched the global reveal last week, saw footage on YouTube, or have been scanning the galleries here and through the Lexus Enthusiast forum. From hybrids and multimedia to design and hardware, there’s a lot to digest with the all-new NX. In fact, if you want a full breakdown – first impressions, specs, speculation and more – tune into the latest episode of the Lexus Enthusiast Podcast where we cover the NX in extreme detail.

Earlier this month, I attended the Product Showcase Event at Toyota/Lexus headquarters in Plano, TX, and the NX was certainly Lexus’ grand finale. After seeing the IS 500 F SPORT Performance Launch Edition, new 2022 ES, the LF-Z Electrified and even a few LFAs, it was the new NX that left the strongest impression on me. After spending several hours with the vehicle in person, here are some observations and first hand experiences with the new NX.

Exterior Design

After seeing the new NX earlier this year in the infamous YouTube leak, I thought I had a pretty fair idea of what to expect… but just like so many Lexus designs, this is a vehicle you have to see in person to truly appreciate.

The words I would use to describe the exterior of the new NX are mature, elegant and assertive. After so many different spindle shapes, headlight designs, LED DRL formations, and grill mesh patterns, this NX shows that Lexus has hit their stride and is confident in how they are designing vehicles. I say the same things about the LC and 2021 IS – the new NX feels that good.

We were in a fairly intimate presentation room at Lexus headquarters when we were shown the reveal video and then the NX drove onto the stage in front of us and stopped on the turntable. There it was, in the metal, finally! The first thing I noticed was the rear end, which starts with strong character lines that wrap from the rear fenders into the back end, highlighting the tail lights and creating stronger looking haunches than any previous Lexus crossover. The L-shaped tail lights and full-width connected rear lamp bar create a presence that’s both upscale and interesting. If you liked the rear end of the 2021 IS, you will like this new NX too. So many compact CUVs have similar lines and shapes, but the rear end is one place where the NX really stands out.

We can’t address the rear without talking about the new “L E X U S” script on the back of the CUV that replaces the circle-L logo. It looks great. In person, the written brand name looks upscale and sophisticated. Journalists had some questions about this design cue and Lexus replied, “Almost every car has an emblem on the rear – as we were thinking about the next iteration of our design language, we wanted something that was different and more sophisticated, just like the rest of the vehicle. Future vehicles will also follow this trend.”

Walking around the rest of the new NX, you get the sense that this is a different kind of Lexus crossover vehicle, and it certainly isn’t your mom’s RX. The stance is significantly more aggressive. The wheels are further out in the fenders and pushed towards the corners. The front end is unmistakably Lexus. Even the details like grill patterns, trim colors, wheels, and door handles pull the package together in a way that is imposing and still elegant.

Compared to the first-generation NX, the design of the new model is a little more restrained and mature in my opinion. When it debuted, the original NX was a stunner that nearly looked like a concept car, whereas the new model is good looking but now entering a crowded field with many similar shapes. Even then, the detailing and personality of this new NX shine through.

Interior Design

Reading the comments and first impressions from many of you, it seems that the integration of the new Lexus Interface and its 14″ screen have drawn people into two camps: you love it or you hate it, and I don’t see many folks in the middle. When the pictures of the interior first surfaced from the YouTube leak, I did not feel the same sense of worry about the dashboard or overall interior that others did. In person, any fears of “too much plastic” were certainly assuaged. While the optional 14″ screen seems to dominate the interior in photos, in person, it’s well integrated, well placed, and certainly brings new functionality to Lexus cabins. The passenger side of the dash is a plush injection-molded plastic but the Lexus Interface screen is still within reach, and if you’re looking for detailing, the adjacent door panels dress up the rest of the passenger experience.

Moving on to the broader interior, there’s a sense of minimalism about this new NX that’s refreshing and feels grown up. Lexus interiors have varied from ornate (LX and LS) to charismatic (LC and UX) to utilitarian (IS), and the 2022 NX turns a new page taking the best from each of them. For all of the technology that is engineered into this vehicle – Lexus Interface, Lexus Safety System 3.0, digital tachometer, wireless charging, ambient lighting, so much more – it is all integrated in a way that feels complementary and clever instead of overwhelming or too complex. The focal point of the dash is the new Lexus Interface but the steering wheel, center console and even door panels have a simplicity that feels uniquely Lexus. Door panels seem like a particularly mundane part of interior design, but the layering of trim pieces offset by speaker grills and leather, ambient lighting and contrast stitching all create something that’s easy to appreciate instead of overlook.

Digital Latch is a new technology that’s both sleek and tactically pleasing to use, and it again streamlines the design by integrating the handle into the arm rest. I was able to see a demo of the Safe Exit Assist technology and will vouch for the real world usability of this system. Living in a city and frequently parallel parking on busy streets, this technology will help prevent damage to your new NX as well as pedestrians or bikers. Another good example of Lexus’ ingenuity.

The rest of the interior was what we’ve come to expect from Lexus: high quality trims and plastics, soft leathers and seating surfaces, comfortable seats, doors that close with the right type of “thud” and much more. I was not able to experience all of the features in the new NX’s interior, but first impressions were very, very positive.

Lexus Interface

While it may be the single most interesting innovation from this new NX to some, I won’t spend too much time digging into the Lexus Interface system simply because I think it’s better experienced in person or by watching it on video. A few things to note though:

  • It really, truly is a game changer. Lexus teased this technology on the first night of the Product Showcase Event before ever hinting at the new NX, and the amount of research, dedication and resources put into developing this new system is extremely impressive. Lexus scoured the globe, asked various divisions, interviewed engineering teams and meticulously planned out the functionality of this new system before deciding to launch the product under the North American team. They have done an incredible job.
  • How we’ve been using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto generally seeks to mirror capability of our phones on our cars, and we’ve been pretty happy with that (ok, aside from using Remote Touch to do it). Lexus Interface brings some of those capabilities natively into your car — a big step by giving your car’s multimedia system the same true functionality as your phone. You can sign into Pandora and Apple Music accounts natively in your car. Maps are always refreshed and download the latest data. You can set user profiles on your cars that will automatically apply seat and audio presets, ambient lighting, and more. This is not just a new multimedia system – it is bringing your car to parity with your phone for intuitive, easy, connected access to everything.
  • As has been noted, you can still use CarPlay and Android Auto with this system – as well as many other integrations. The team is so excited about this open framework that they are continuing to build new functionality and integrations into the system until it launches, and will be doing so for many years to come. Over the air updates, anyone? Yup – they’re already planned. With Lexus Interface, you will always have the best of everything.
  • All of this is hard to appreciate if the system itself isn’t natural and friendly to use. With Lexus Interface, it is. For as much complexity and functionality is built into the system, it’s incredible how Lexus has distilled all of it’s capability into a few core menus and sub-menus that make using your car easy. And most importantly? There are physical buttons for core functions like HVAC so you don’t have to navigate through screens to cool down or warm up.
  • Last but not least: The system is beautiful to use. The screen is high definition, clear and bright. It responds naturally to inputs and looks great while doing it. It’s also heavily customizable so you can make your version of Lexus Interface match or contrast the rest of your interior as much as you want.

Even though I’m not usually a person who gets too jazzed over multimedia and infotainment, Lexus Interface really is the game changer they make it out to be.

Powertrains

While most of the press coverage of the new NX has focused on the top-level NX 450h+, I’m going to – maybe shockingly – ask you to brush those questions and comments aside for a moment. There are a lot of exciting new things happening under the sheetmetal of the new NX, and while the plug-in hybrid electric powertrain is certainly among them, there are many other headlining details to cover. This NX offers five powertrains which is the most of any Lexus vehicle, ever: NX 200, NX 250/260, NX 350, NX 350h and NX 450h+. And that’s only what has been released so far, so let’s take a closer look:

NX 350: Here it is, finally. 15 years with the 3.5L GR V6 and its replacement has now arrived. Should we take a moment of silence? Whether you have owned an RX, LC hybrid, or anything in between, chances are very high that you’ve driven some version of this V6 and whether you love it or hate it, it’s reign is now coming to a close. The NX launches an all-new Dynamic Force 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that is estimated to produce 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. Sure, this might be ~30-40 horsepower shy of the V6, but it’s also packing 40 more lb-ft of torque with turbocharged power delivery and that’s something many Lexus fans and owners have been asking for. Details on this engine were strangely sparse, but I was told that it has drastically lower tailpipe emissions than the V6 while producing similar or better performance. Quickly running the specs shows that the NX 350 has best-in-class power among its top competitors: Q5, RDX, GLC 300 and X3 30i. Bravo, Lexus. The NX 350 will also come with a full-time AWD system that can actively control the torque split according to driver needs and inputs. If you’ve been hoping for a more performance-focused Lexus CUV, your vehicle has arrived and the future is looking very bright.

NX 350h: Very much overshadowed by it’s bigger 450h+ brother, I think the NX 350h actually hits the sweet spot for most buyers. 239 combined horsepower, standard AWD and 37MPG is a compelling formula for everyone from hypermilers to driving enthusiasts. There’s no doubt that the 450h+ will be faster, but if the RAV4 lineup is any indication, the NX 350h will actually be better balanced, less expensive and you don’t have to plug it in, which might be advantageous depending on where you live. The NX 350h also gets a 20 horsepower boost over the RAV4 Hybrid which should make its performance even better. Acceleration was a common complaint with the current generation NX 300h and Lexus has certainly solved the problem, and then some.

NX 200, 250 and 260: Global models and volume players, these two naturally-aspirated four cylinder engines in the NX will help to make it affordable, broaden its appeal in displacement-conscious markets, and give consumers more choices. If you don’t frequently find yourself in the left lane, a base NX 250 might be just fine. None of these would be my first choice, but I’m happy that Lexus is building out the entire NX product line with so many options.

NX 450h+: Ok, thank you for waiting. Here we are. I’m probably most glad that Lexus is building this car so we can say the company is taking bolder steps towards electrification. Could they be doing more? Sure, but 36 miles of electric range, more than 300 horsepower, standard AWD, and a hybrid gasoline engine for when your charge runs out is a formula that the market can’t get enough of (hint: try to get your hands on a RAV4 Prime). For eco-friendly folks or straight-line speed demons, this is probably the perfect NX… but it’s going to be pricey.

Summary

As a person who has mostly driven rear-wheel drive Lexus sedans like the IS, GS and LS, or body-on-frame SUVs like the GX and 4Runner, the Lexus NX has never been on the top of my shopping list. Will the 2022 NX change that? Due to my 6’1″, broad frame fitting better in a GX 460, probably not, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t thinking about it more than ever before when standing next to the dark gray NX 350 F SPORT. More than that, the new NX made me think a lot about the future of Lexus and just how far the company has come with one single model. We’ve heard complaints for many years about engines that need more power, infotainment that is clunky and outdated, designs that look too dramatic or silly, and technology that has fallen behind the competition. The NX trounces all of those complaints in one fell swoop.

Consider packing Lexus Interface, a line of powerful and efficient new powertrains, full-time AWD with performance credentials, and clever safety and convenience technology all into a package that looks more at home next to a Porsche Macan than ever before, and you realize that the NX is more than just the sum of its parts – it is our first look at the new Lexus and what else we’ll see in the 20 vehicles coming over the next 4 years. This NX is truly impressive in every way, and coming from a person who doesn’t generally like or drive crossovers, that’s a heavy endorsement.

Still looking for more NX content? Join the NX discussion on the Lexus Enthusiast forum.

Lexus NX: Second GenerationPodcast

LXE Podcast 15: Hands on with the New Lexus NX

Posted by krew on June 16th, 2021

Lexus NX Podcast 15

The latest episode of the Lexus Enthusiast Podcast is now live, with Kevin & Michael breaking down all the latest Lexus news. This week, the focus is on the freshly announced second-generation 2022 NX crossover, though there is some time to discuss leaked next-generation LX powertrain and trim levels.

You can subscribe to the podcast in iTunes, listen on Spotify, or download the MP3 file directly. Hope you enjoy listening, and please let us know what you think on our new Podcast forum!

Lexus LX

Did Lexus Just Tease the New LX?

Posted by Gecko on June 15th, 2021

During the recent reveal of the 2022 NX Crossover, depending on which live stream you watched, some viewers were treated to something special: A teaser of what is likely the next generation LX.

At the end of the presentation, Hiroo Togashi, general manager of Lexus Global Brand Management, stands in front of the new NX and another, larger SUV that was covered by a sheet. Pointing to the covered SUV, Togashi says, “We have another product reveal coming later this year… who knows… we may even have a different kind of surprise as well, so stay tuned.”

Since most of Lexus’ SUV lineup will be redesigned soon, the vehicle under the sheet could be anything: the next generation RX, the rumored TX, a new GX or indeed the new LX. Looking at the upright proportions and some of the details – like grille shape and LED daytime running lights – it does seem most likely that it’s an LX. In fact, some have speculated that it’s actually a current generation LX 570 under that sheet, and that case certainly seems plausible. But would Lexus put a current product under a sheet when referencing a new one? Maybe so.

Here is the full press conference. Skip to the 7:00 time mark to see the mystery SUV and Togashi’s comments.

Lexus RC F: First GenerationRacingUSA

Lexus Racing Secures Top-Five Finish at IMSA Belle Isle Race

Posted by krew on June 14th, 2021

Lexus RC F Racing

The Vasser Sullivan #14 Lexus RC F GT3 finished fifth in Saturday’s IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship race at Detroit’s Raceway at Belle Isle Park with co-drivers Jack Hawksworth and Aaron Telitz.

Telitz started the race from the back of the GTD field due to damage during qualifying, and quickly worked his way to fourth place. Hawksworth then made his way up to third before a punctured tire forced him to the pits and pushed the team down to a fifth place finish.

Townsend Bell and Frankie Montecalvo were in second place with the #12 RC F GT3 when contact from a competitor forced the car to spin out. Montecalvo and Bell were able to work their way back through the field to salvage a sixth-place finish.

Lexus and Vasser Sullivan Racing return to the track at Watkins Glen International on Sunday, June 27 for the third endurance race of the season.

Lexus RC F Racing

Lexus NX: Second GenerationTechVideos

A Closer Look at the New Lexus Interface Infotainment System

Posted by krew on June 12th, 2021

Lexus NX Touchscreen

One of the biggest changes to come out of the new 2022 NX crossover is the introduction of Lexus Interface, the brand’s new infotainment system. Here’s a video overview of the functionality:

There are multiple levels to Lexus Interface, starting with the elimination of the controversial Remote Touch controller Lexus has been using in various forms since 2009. Beyond this, there’s also the integration of most vehicle controls into the display, which then allows Lexus to remove much of the button clutter of their current models.

Lexus NX Interface

Despite most owners using this touchscreen as a window into their smartphone, Lexus has put much effort into the native software, allowing it to connect directly to services like Spotify & Google Maps, even offering its own custom virtual assistant.

(The hardware itself is interesting — the glass has been optically bonded to the touchscreen, eliminating much of the glare usually seen on screens in the sun.)

Lexus NX: Second Generation

Introducing the Next-Generation Lexus NX Crossover

Posted by krew on June 11th, 2021

Lexus NX 2022 Next-Generation

The second-generation Lexus NX crossover will be coming to dealerships this fall with four powertrains and the brand new Lexus Interface infotainment system to go along with its completely redesigned exterior & interior.

Headlining the show is the NX 450h+, the first plug-in hybrid in the Lexus lineup. There’s also the NX 300h hybrid, the NX 350 four-cylinder turbo, and the entry-model NX 250, giving the NX the most engine choices of any Lexus ever.

Just as important is the brand new Lexus Interface multimedia system, which does away with the Lexus Remote Touch controller in favor of a single large touchscreen.

As with any new model, there’s plenty of detail from official sources, so let’s start with the introductory press release and work through all the details.

Ushering in a new era of luxury, Lexus is embracing electrification, intuitive technology, performance, and design. The all-new 2022 Lexus NX delivers a long list of firsts, including the all-new Lexus Interface multimedia system designed with the North American market in mind.

Lexus NX Driving Standard

With a lower center of gravity and stronger stance, the all-new NX embodies powerful design, intuitive innovation and boundless utility. The most notable update is the introduction of Lexus Interface, the integrated multimedia and digital support on the optional 14-inch touchscreen display. It offers available over the air updates, wireless charging and untethered smart phone connection to the user’s unique profile. This is paired with the introduction of standard Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, plus Blind Spot Monitor. Additionally, Safe Exit Assist and the innovative Digital Latch system are designed to make exiting the vehicle safely even more effortless.

Lexus NX F SPORT Rear

“The all-new Lexus NX sets a new standard in the luxury crossover market with class-leading innovations in electrified powertrains, infotainment, driving dynamics, styling and safety,” said Vinay Shahani, Lexus vice president of marketing. “The 2022 NX includes the most technological vehicle changes since we launched Lexus 32 years ago. With the all-new Lexus Interface multimedia system and a variety of customizable features, NX is an exciting first step in a series of 20 all-new or updated Lexus vehicles by 2025.”

Powerful Design for the Future

From the refined spindle grille to the new full-width blade taillamps and LEXUS rear badging, the all-new 2022 Lexus NX emits a powerful message to those approaching the luxury crossover. At the front, the updated grille pattern and frame create a more integrated feel to the body of the vehicle. Made up of tall U-shaped blocks, the spindle grille is designed for a three-dimensional effect and creates a sense of depth while expressing a strong impression. Framed on top by the L-shaped daytime running lights (DRL), the optional three-projector headlamps create balance with a more subdued impression.

Lexus NX Standard Front

In the rear, the Lexus logo has been redesigned to create an advanced and modern expression. The use of the L emblem has been replaced by a new, unified LEXUS logo located at the center of the vehicle. A full-width blade rear combination lamp (similar to the Lexus UX and IS). and an L-shaped lamp on the rear fender are separated to make the expression unique to the NX. The light bar lamps are constantly illuminated at night to function as a taillight and illuminate the rear brand signature.

Lexus NX Rear Logo

Guests can select from a variety of fresh NX colors to suit their taste, including Redline, Cloudburst Gray and Grecian Water. For colors exclusive to F SPORT models, the palette includes Ultra White, Obsidian and Ultra Sonic Blue Mica 2.0.

Driver-Focused Cockpit Design

The NX’s driver-centered cockpit has been meticulously designed with a focus on connecting the driver to the vehicle. The 7-inch Multi Instrument Display (MID) and optional 10-inch Head Up Display (HUD), both NX firsts, are designed to convey vehicle information, alerts and updates, within the driver’s line of sight. The MID’s single meter layout is made more visible by a high -definition screen. Most driving-related functions are concentrated on the steering wheel to allow for intuitive operation while keeping the driver’s eyes on the road.

Lexus NX Interior Feature

In the center stack, the standard 9.8-inch touchscreen puts an array of multimedia features within easy reach. The optional 14-inch touch screen, a first for NX, delivers an immersive multimedia experience. Dial controls remain for frequently used functions, like climate control and media volume. Comfort features, such as heated seat selection, are now more readily accessible. All enhancements combine to create a more user-friendly, digital in-vehicle experience.

Lexus NX Infotainment Screen

Driving Performance – All-New NX 350 2.4 Turbo Engine

The new lower center of gravity and enhancements in vehicle rigidity allow for a higher horsepower 2.4 turbo gas engine on the NX 350. The new 8-speed transmission provides the gas-powered NX the feel of a performance vehicle with the higher perspective of a crossover utility vehicle. This is made possible by improvements to torsional rigidity through laser peening welding and the addition of high rigidity foam, both Lexus firsts. The twin hood lock, also a brand first, adds front lateral flexural rigidity and improves the aerodynamics of the vehicle.

Lexus NX Engines

The exciting turbo gas-powered engine boasts an estimated 275 horsepower and 317 lb. ft. of torque. Combined, these result in a 0-60 time of 6.8 seconds, a half-second quicker than the previous model.

Additionally, the NX 250 provides a naturally aspirated gas engine to round out the options for guests interested in a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gas engine with start/stop functionality. With an eight-speed transmission, this model is available in both FWD and AWD options. Delivering an estimated 203 horsepower and 184 lb. ft. of torque., combined results in 0-60 times of 8.2 seconds (FWD) and 8.6 seconds (AWD) respectively.

Performance and Range with the NX 450h+ Plug-In Hybrid

In a first for Lexus, the new plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) system brings Lexus Electrified to life through performance and the signature quietness of a PHEV model. The NX 450h+ has a manufacturer-estimated 36-mile range on electric power only, made possible by the newly developed, high-capacity lithium ion battery. The system achieves the EV output equivalent to a 2.0-liter engine. When combined with the newly developed hybrid transaxle, a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine delivers on the performance luxury guests are seeking with an estimated 6.0 second 0-60 time.

Lexus NX 450h+

A high-output, high-efficiency system designed to reduce power loss when converting from AC power to DC power, results in shorter charging times. Using the maximum charging current of 240V, the Lexus NX plug-in hybrid can be fully charged in approximately two-and a-half hours when equipped with the optional 6.6 kW Expedited Onboard Charger. With the standard 3.3 kW on board charger, charge time goes up slightly to four-and-a-half hours.

The NX450h+ employs an electronically controlled, full-time AWD system for a confident, sporty driving experience. Optimizing front and rear torque distribution according to the driving conditions, the driver can control the vehicle as intended. In turns, the NX AWD provides exhilarating yet elegant control for normal to aggressive driving styles.

Predictive Efficient Drive couples with the navigation system, learns driving habits, predicts the expected roadway ahead and analyzes real-time traffic reports to optimize charging and discharging of the hybrid battery. The more miles the NX is driven, the more data is gathered to help optimize fuel consumption. The system also uses accumulated knowledge about a driver’s behavior to predict when and where the vehicle is likely to slow down or stop. For example, when the NX approaches a location where the driver has slowed or stopped in the past, and the driver releases the accelerator pedal, Predictive Efficient Drive increases regenerative braking, allowing more efficient energy to be recovered and recharged into the hybrid battery.

Lexus NX Charging Port

Hybrid Combines Performance and Fuel Economy

With the all-new Lexus NX 350h, guests can have both great performance and fuel economy. With a combined 239 horsepower (a 20 percent increase over the current model) and impressive manufacturer estimated 36 MPG (an increase of 6 MPG over the current model), the NX hybrid brings a powerful performance that illustrates the brand’s hybrid leadership. Guests will also notice the quicker 0-60 time with 1.5 seconds shaved off the time from prior generations at 7.2 seconds.

The Lexus Hybrid Drive system pairs the D4-S fuel injection 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine with two high-torque electric drive motor-generators for strong acceleration and passing performance. Instead of transfer gears and a driveshaft to the rear wheels, the AWD system employs a second, independent electric motor to drive the rear wheels when it detects it is needed to help maintain optimal traction.

Lexus Interface: An All-New Elegant, Intuitive and Desired Connected Multimedia System

The all-new, North American-developed Lexus Interface multimedia system allows the NX to seamlessly integrate and navigate life’s twists and turns. The eye-catching standard 9.8-inch touchscreen provides intuitive technology at the occupants’ fingertips. The screen’s new Human Machine Interface (HMI) enhances user interaction through sight, touch and voice, while balancing accessibility needs. An optional 14-inch touchscreen maximizes the experience with integrated automatic climate control functions.

Lexus NX Infotainment Center

Lexus Interface also incorporates a new Virtual Assistant developed with a human-centered approach. The Virtual Assistant is intended to be the primary way guests interact with the new multimedia system. Designed with dual microphones, enhanced noise-cancellation, seat detection and speaker location capabilities, the system enables a voice-first approach allowing front seat occupants an expanded and interactive experience to access navigation, media, phone and certain vehicle settings such as climate control and window opening/closing.

With the ubiquitous use of smart phones, an intuitive and simple guest experience is now possible with Lexus Interface. With the Lexus Interface User Profile feature, the driver’s personalized settings and experience can be retained in the cloud and accessible on the go in other Lexus Interface equipped vehicles. Once a profile is created in the Lexus App, guests can use a Bluetooth handheld device, smart key or manual login to access it.

Lexus NX Interior Lexus Interface

An extension of the User Profile feature, Digital Key allows guests the ability to lock/unlock and start/stop their vehicle through their smartphone when within Bluetooth proximity. The Digital Key can be shared with up to seven additional guests, creating a seamless experience for users registered on the Lexus App.

The Lexus Interface native navigation system was designed with ease of use and functional beauty in mind. Featuring 100 percent cloud capability and integrated Google POI data, the system allows faster and more accurate directions and mapping. Over-the-air (OTA) updates offer real-time updates for mapping, and enriched media experiences. The native navigation is also available to occupants with or without a network connection. Offline mode detects when the vehicle is near or entering an area with low connectivity and downloads applicable maps and services in advance.

Lexus NX Maps

For 2022, the Lexus NX also features standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Guests can charge and stream wirelessly with the new optional wireless charger which can be stowed away to maximize storage.

Enhanced Safety with All Passengers in Mind: Lexus Safety System+ 3.0

The all-new NX will come equipped with the latest Lexus Safety System+ 3.0. for additional peace of mind in certain scenarios including:

  • Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist – helps support collision avoidance within the lane by providing gentle braking and steering operation.
  • Left Turn Oncoming Vehicle Detection/Braking – designed to provide a warning and automatic braking if the driver turns left in front of an oncoming vehicle.
  • Right/Left Turn Oncoming Pedestrian Detection/Braking – designed to provide a warning and automatic braking if a driver turns left or right in front of an oncoming pedestrian or cyclist.
  • Oncoming Vehicle Detection added to the Pre-Collision System – designed to alert the driver, and, potentially activate automatic emergency braking to help avoid a frontal collision.
  • Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management – maintains a cruising speed in alignment with the flow of traffic while managing speed on curves.

lexus NX HUD

The following will be added to the current Lexus Safety System features for NX:

  • Road Sign Assist – displays select road sign information in the instrument panel.
  • Pre-collision System – provides the potential to detect a preceding vehicle, pedestrian or cyclist in low-light situations.
  • Lane Assistance – designed to provide an audible alert if an inadvertent lane departure is detected.
    Intelligent High Beam– provides greater visibility for drivers with added illumination when the road ahead is clear, then temporarily switches to low beams when it detects the headlamps or taillamps of vehicles ahead.
  • Road Sign Assist – uses a built-in camera to help provide road sign information in the instrument panel or even on the available Head-Up Display. The system can also alert the driver of certain detected signs that otherwise might have been missed.

Lexus NX Digital Rear View

The all-new Digital Latch system enables doors to open smoothly at the touch of a button when entering or exiting the vehicle. And by scanning the environment, Safe Exit Assist alerts the driver and passengers to avoid the risk of accidental contact with vehicles and cyclists, helping ensure safe openings and closings. The new, optional Digital Mirror provides a clear view of obstacles behind the vehicle.

Lexus NX Door Handle

Illuminating the Way: Inside and Out

The 2022 NX delivers on the brand’s well-known interior cabin noise reduction with additional updates made to reduce road noise and exterior distractions. Inside, drivers can create an oasis with nature-inspired Thematic Ambient Illumination, an optional feature that bathes the NX interior in a choice of 14 themes and 64 colors. Each has been carefully selected to express ephemeral emotions and evoke nature-inspired feelings, with themes including Rain Forest, Waterfall, and Sunset.

Lexus NX Interior Blue White

Newly designed standard heated front seats and optional heated rear seats add comfort throughout the cabin. Guests will also notice increased head and legroom with the adoption of the Lexus GA-K platform. Additional storage space has been added in the rear cargo area.

Interior seat and console colors include Black, Black with Rich Cream, Palomino, and Rioja Red NuLuxe. All ornamentation has been redesigned. The Stippled Black on the entry model exudes a carefully arranged dot pattern with varying density to create a sense of front-rear movement. Black Open Pore wood adds an opulent touch to the Luxury model. Newly developed Black Prism, an advanced-looking Piano Black texture, features a three-dimensional fractal that is gradually carved more densely toward the rear so that it changes its expression with transitions of sunlight, creating a high-tech feel.

In a first for the NX, the panoramic moonroof gives both the front and rear passengers the ability to see the sky with just the push of a button. Its smooth gliding opening and closing motion provides easy stargazing or additional airflow on a sunny day.

F SPORT Handling: Performance and Style

Lexus NX F SPORT Driving

Available with both the turbo and PHEV powertrains, the F SPORT Handing model turns up the driving dynamics with a sporty feel that is amplified by the Active Variable Suspension (AVS), and front and rear performance dampers. Exclusive to the F SPORT family, Dark Graphite Aluminum ornamentation, a unique meter, sport seats, a newly developed steering wheel, and aluminum pedals and scuff plates all set it apart. With perforated interior trim in Black and Circuit Red NuLuxe, the sport-inspired materials are integrated on the seats, steering wheel and center console. The F SPORT Handling model can add the Luxury package, which brings the 14-inch touchscreen, unique headlamps and 64-color interior illumination.

Lexus NX F SPORT Interior

A dedicated F SPORT grille and front/rear bumpers make a bold first impression. The 20-inch gloss black aluminum wheels are framed by color-key overfenders increase curb appeal and add to the sporty appearance. Topped with black roof rails and daylight opening garnishes (DLO), exclusive F SPORT colors include Ultra White, Obsidian and Ultrasonic Blue 2.0.

The all-new 2022 NX will start production in the third quarter of 2021. Pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

Lexus NX Family