2022 Lexus NX gets full redesign and proper tech

The Lexus NX is the middle child in Lexus’ SUV lineup. Sandwiched between the smaller UX and the larger RX and LX SUVs, the NX was mostly forgotten. But the compact luxury SUV now gets a new generation with an evolved design and better tech.

Still based on the Toyota RAV4 under the skin, the design of the 2022 Lexus NX is similar to the outgoing model’s styling, but simply with all the random body creases and cuts moved around. The Lexus signature spindle grill gets flanked by new headlights that get an optional three-projector LED layout. The rear gets detailed by a large LEXUS lettering splattered across the tailgate’s width. Similar to many new vehicles launched recently, 2021 Lexus NX’s taillights also span across the width of the tailgate.

The interior gets the most deserved update, namely a touch screen. Better late than never, Lexus plonks in a large 14-inch display as an option. The standard screen is also of a respectable size, at 9.8-inches. Thankfully, Lexus has decided not to skip physical dials for climate control settings as well as audio volume. Behind the steering, a 7.0-inch HD driver information display sits. Other luxury features include standard heated seats with optional heating for rear seats, an optional 10-inch heads-up display, a panoramic sunroof and several options for seat upholstery and wood trim. The new Lexus NX gets Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite, adding risk avoidance emergency steer assist, updated pedestrian detection and a pre-collision system on top of the previous suite.

The range is opened by a base Lexus NX 250 that gets its energy from a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine good for 203 hp and 250 Nm of torque. This trim gets an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive choices. The NX 350 ups the ante with a 275 hp 2.4-litre turbo engine, with the same transmission.

Hybrid tech inevitably joins the lineup with the Lexus NX 350h, pairing a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors. This combo churns out 239 hp. The Lexus NX450h+ is a plug-in hybrid variant of the crossover but specs of this trim are not out yet, apart from the fact that it uses the same IC engine as the NX 350h.

The NX 350h and NX 450h+ get an optional F Sport handling package that adds adaptive suspension and larger 20-inch gloss black wheels. The F Sport gets more spice from an aggressive bumper design, different upholstery, sports seats and an exclusive steering wheel.

Expect the new model to quietly reach UAE and GCC showrooms by early next year.

Keep track of prices and updates in the Lexus buyer guide.