The Lexus NX Plug-in Hybrid has a unique appeal that many buyers in this segment in the UK prefer, particularly those who don’t want a BMW X3 or an Audi Q5. And I feel that it goes beyond its crisp styling and sporty proportions.
We examined a global-spec plug-in hybrid NX, which has more than a few things in common with the Toyota RAV4 PHEV, to find out what sets this Japanese SUV apart.
Design
Though it has a smaller footprint than other Lexus SUVs, the NX Plug-in Hybrid captures the same sharp design with clean surfacing and nicely-balanced proportions. Up front, the upright spindle grille integrates smoothly into the bumper and bonnet, finished without a chrome surround.
Slim LED headlamps sit high and wide, with L-shaped daytime running lights creating a recognisable visual signature. Sculpted bonnet lines and dark lower bumper elements add a little spice while keeping the overall look restrained.
In profile, the NX has unique design elements, and doesn’t feel like an upsized LBX, or a shrunken RX, for that matter. Pronounced wheel arches, a rising shoulder line, and short overhangs clearly differentiate it, with 20-inch alloy wheels and black lower cladding adding to its SUV stance.
At the rear, a full-width LED light bar links the L-shaped tail lamps, while “LEXUS” lettering replaces a traditional badge on the tailgate, leading to a clean and contemporary finish.
Interior
The Lexus NX Plug-in Hybrid’s cabin takes a deliberately conventional approach, favouring ease of use over visual experimentation. The dashboard is broad and horizontal, with a layered design that keeps the upper surfaces clean and uncluttered.
Materials feel quite solid and well-finished, with soft-touch trims across the dash and doors, complemented by subtle stitching and metallic accents.
The driving position feels immediately familiar. The steering wheel, digital instrument cluster, and central touchscreen are positioned close together, reducing reach and eye movement. Physical controls remain for frequently used functions, including climate and drive-related settings, which improves day-to-day usability.
The centre console is wide and neatly organised, housing clearly marked buttons, a compact gear selector, and practical storage spaces.
Experience in the Lexus NX Plug-in Hybrid
Getting into the Lexus NX Plug-in Hybrid feels standard and easy. The cabin has a wide, high-resolution screen that looks sharp, and visibility around the vehicle feels good from the driver’s seat.
The front seats feel comfortable, with headroom, back support, and under-thigh support all feeling adequate during my time in the car.
The steering wheel controls are not the most quality plastic and feel basic. They function normally, but they do not feel high-end. Rear and side visibility feel typical for the class.
In the rear, the NX uses a standard bench seat, with a recline function. Headroom feels slightly restricted, and I noticed the rising shoulder line toward the rear reduces the sense of space.
Specifications
The UK-spec NX Plug-in Hybrid uses the same 2.5-litre petrol engine as the hybrid variant, but in a different tuning, along with the same front and rear permanent magnet synchronous motors.
The engine develops 136 kW (185 bhp), 4 kW (5 bhp) more than in the hybrid variant, and 227 Nm (167 lb.-ft.) of torque, 12 Nm (9 lb.-ft.) less than in the hybrid variant. The front motor produces 134 kW (182 bhp) and 270 Nm (199 lb.-ft.) of torque, and the rear motor develops 40 kW (54 bhp) and 121 Nm (89 lb.-ft.) of torque.
In total, there’s 227 kW (309 bhp) available at its disposal, 48 kW (65 bhp) more than in the NX Hybrid. As a result, the NX Plug-in Hybrid is 1.2 seconds quicker to 60 mph, in just 6.0 seconds, although it has the same top speed of 124 mph.
The motors rely on an 18.1 kWh battery pack, which is installed under the floor of the vehicle and does not further compromise the boot space, which stands at 549 litres. The high-voltage battery pack supports charging only on alternating current (AC), at up to 6.6 kW.
It takes at least two and a half hours to be fully charged, but it delivers an impressive pure electric range of up to 45.9 miles.
Based on internal testing, Lexus claims even when the battery pack is depleted, the NX Plug-in Hybrid provides a 30% savings in fuel consumption compared to rivals. The plug-in hybrid luxury SUV has a WLTP fuel consumption rating of up to 282.4 MPG.
Also See: First Look Review: No facelift yet, but the Lexus NX Hybrid still holds its appeal
Price
Positioned underneath the RX, the Lexus NX Plug-in Hybrid’s prices in the UK range from GBP 52,035 to GBP 61,435.
Trained as an automobile engineer, I’ve been following the global car market since 2005. Over the past 17 years, I’ve been involved in online automotive analysis and publishing, traveling the world to drive, evaluate, and experience new cars and technologies.
