Overview
The 2022 Lexus NX marks a significant return to form for the luxury subcompact SUV, boasting a sleek new design and a formidable lineup of powertrains even two years later. With its aggressive stance, LED headlamps, and streamlined silhouette, the NX poses a credible threat.
Price
Pricing for the 2022 Lexus NX ranges from $39,500 to $58,550, depending on trim and options. The base NX250 starts at $39,500, while the top-of-the-line NX450h+ F Sport commands $58,550. A good recomendation is the mid-range NX350 with the Luxury package. This offers premium features like quilted leather upholstery, cloud-connected navigation, and adaptive headlamps.
Engine and Transmission
The 2022 NX offers four powertrain options, including two gasoline engines and two hybrids. The NX250’s 203-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder and NX350’s 275-hp turbocharged 2.4-liter both pair with an eight-speed automatic. The NX350h hybrid combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with two electric motors for 239 horsepower, while the NX450h+ plug-in hybrid boasts 302 horsepower.
Dimensions and Interior
Inside, the NX boasts a modern, upscale cabin with classier materials and optional features. This coult be such as panoramic sunroof, heated rear seats, and ambient interior lighting with 64 color choices. Passenger room in the rear seat has increased, although cargo space with the rear seats folded is slightly less generous than the outgoing model. The NX offers 22.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 53.2 cubic feet with the seats folded.
Performance
On the road, the NX delivers a compliant ride and respectable handling, although it trails the BMW X1 in terms of agility. Meanwhile, the F Sport trim’s adaptive suspension system firms up the ride, providing added poise. Our testing revealed the NX’s capabilities on twisty roads, where it proved enjoyable, if not exhilarating.
Fuel Economy
According to the EPA, the NX350h hybrid leads the pack with ratings of 41 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. The NX250 achieves up to 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, while the NX350 manages 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. The NX450h+ plug-in hybrid boasts an estimated 38 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, with up to 37 miles of electric range. Our real-world testing yielded 28 mpg for the NX350 and 34 mpg for the NX350h.
Finally, the 2022 Lexus NX marks a significant improvement over its predecessor, offering a compelling blend of style, luxury, and performance. With its modernized design, expanded powertrain options, and premium features, the NX poses a credible threat to its luxury subcompact SUV rivals. While not the most agile handler, the NX delivers a comfortable ride, generous cargo space, and impressive fuel efficiency, making it an attractive choice for luxury SUV buyers.