Overview
Table of Contents
Since the NX was fully redesigned for the 2022 model year, there are no notable changes for 2023. The 2022 redesign brought the first plug-in hybrid variant of the NX, a touchscreen infotainment system with the “Hey, Lexus” voice interface, more safety features, and an all-new look inside and out.
Although the Lexus NX shares its platform and drivetrains with the Toyota RAV4, it’s still more similar to the brand’s small UX crossover. The 2022 model year also features two different gasoline and hybrid engines. The new model poses a bigger threat to the likes of the BMW X1, Audi Q3, and Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class than its predecessor did.
“The original Lexus NX hardly caused a splash in the SUV market when it arrived back in 2014 – but it proved to be a bit of a win for the Japanese premium car brand. Owners loved its premium (yet far from ostentatious) image while its excellent reliability record also built it a firm following.”
A new generation of the Lexus NX has arrived, with more elegant looks, a more modern and technologically advanced interior, enhanced safety and a choice of four powertrain options including the first-ever NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid. That model generates a combined 302 horsepower and provides a zero-emission range of 61 kilometres. All-wheel drive is standard across the line. By the way, Canadian-bound units will now be built right here in Ontario.
2023 Lexus NX interior
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. Each theme has been carefully selected to express a full range of emotions and evoke a feeling of comfort, with themes including Rain Forest, Waterfall and Sunset.
Interior seat and console colours include Black, Black with Rich Cream, Palomino and Rioja Red NuLuxe trim. All ornamentation has been redesigned. The Stippled Black ornamentation 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 trim adds an opulent touch to the Luxury model. Interior options include Black Prism ornamentation, an advanced-looking Piano Black texture, that 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 on the Premium model.
The optional 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 supplies easy stargazing or added airflow on a sunny day.
NX 350 and 250: The Dynamic Duo of Gas Powertrains
The lower centre of gravity and enhancements in vehicle dynamics combine for the increased performance of the 2.4L turbo on the NX 350. The eight-speed transmission supports the luxury crossover’s 275 horsepower and 317 lb. ft. of torque. Combined, the NX is propelled at a 0-60 time of 6.6 seconds, over a half-second quicker than the earlier model, with an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined.
Additionally, the first-ever NX 250 features a naturally aspirated, 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with start/stop functionality mated with an eight-speed transmission. This setup, available in both FWD and AWD options, has an EPA-estimated 28 combined MPG. The powerplant produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb. ft. of torque, resulting in 0-60 times of 8.2 seconds (FWD) and 8.6 seconds (AWD), while having an EPA-estimated 28 combined miles per gallon.
NX 350h: Horsepower and Hybrid Electric In One
The Lexus NX 350h brings power and fuel economy improvements to the mainstay of the alt-fuel family. The Lexus Hybrid Drive system pairs the D4-S fuel injection 2.5-litre, 4-cylinder gasoline engine with two high-torque electric drive motor-generators for strong acceleration and passing performance. Instead of transferring 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 support traction.
Drivers will also notice the quicker 0-60 time of 7.2 seconds, a full 1.5 seconds quicker than the previous generation hybrid. The updated hybrid powertrain produces 239 combined system horsepower and an impressive, combined EPA-estimated 39 MPG.
NX 450h+: A Plug-In Crossover with Power
The NX 450h+ has an EPA-estimated 36-mile range on electric power only, made possible by the high-capacity lithium-ion battery. The system achieves the EV output equivalent to a 2.0-litre engine for an EPA-estimated combined 84 MPGe. When combined with the hybrid transaxle, a 2.5-litre inline 4-cylinder engine delivers the performance luxury guests are seeking with an estimated 6.0 second 0-60 time.
A high-output, high-efficiency system designed to reduce power loss when converting from AC power to DC power results in faster charging times. Using the maximum charging current of 240V, the Lexus NX plug-in hybrid electric 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 onboard charger, charge time goes up slightly to approximately four-and-a-half hours.
The NX employs an electronically controlled AWD system for a confident, sporty driving experience. By optimizing front and rear torque distribution according to the driving conditions, the driver can control the vehicle as intended. In turn, the NX AWD supplies exhilarating yet elegant control for normal to aggressive driving styles.
Lexus Safety System+ 3.0: Safety with All Passengers in Mind
Drivers will enjoy added peace of mind thanks to Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, standard on 2023 NX models. Features such as Curve Speed Management and Intersection Support create a foundation of protection at multiple angles. Optional Digital Key on NX 350h and NX 450h+ models make vehicle access and parking a breeze.
Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 adds advanced safety features, including:
- Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist – helps support collision avoidance within the lane by applying gentle braking and steering operation.
- Left Turn Oncoming Vehicle Detection/Braking – designed to apply a warning and automatic braking if the system determines a driver turning left in front of an oncoming vehicle.
- Right/Left Turn Oncoming Pedestrian Detection/Braking – designed to apply a warning and automatic braking if the system determines a driver turning left or right in front of an oncoming pedestrian or cyclist.
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management –managing speed in curves when cruise control is engaged.
The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 also includes the current safety features for NX:
- Road Sign Assist – uses a built-in camera to help provide select road sign information in the instrument panel or in the Head-Up Display.
- Pre-Collision System – engineered to help detect a vehicle or pedestrian in the path of your Lexus under certain conditions. Should it detect a potential frontal collision, it’s designed to automatically prepare Brake Assist for increased brake force and, in some cases, can even automatically brake the vehicle to a stop. The enhanced radar and camera capabilities make it possible for the system to also help detect a preceding bicyclist in the daytime and a preceding pedestrian in the daytime and in low-light conditions. Additionally, the Pre-Collision System has left-turn intersection detection of a pedestrian and vehicle.
- Lane Departure Alert w/Steering Assist – designed to provide an audible alert if an unintended lane departure is detected. With Steering Assist, it can take corrective measures with a slight pull on the steering wheel.
- 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.
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control – uses radar and camera technology to help the driver maintain a preset speed and follow distance from the vehicle ahead.
- When exiting the luxury crossover, the standard Digital Latch and Safe Exit Assist can give each occupant protection from vehicles or bicycles approaching from the rear, a common blind spot in high-traffic areas. The optional Digital Mirror provides a clear view of obstacles behind the vehicle.
2023 Lexus NX Price
The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for each 2023 Lexus NX is:
- $39,755 for NX 250 FWD
- $41,355 for NX 250 AWD
- $43,515 for NX 350
- $43,105 for NX 350h
- $57,705 for NX 450h+
- All prices listed are inclusive of a $1,150 delivery, processing and handling fee.
2023 Lexus NX Specifications
| Price in Dollar | $39,755 – $57,705 |
|---|---|
| Price in Nigeria | ₦35 million – ₦45 million |
| Powertrain | |
| Combined power | 240 hp |
| Combined torque | N/A |
| Engine | 2,5 l I-4 (front, center) |
| Power | 188 hp @ 6,000 rpm (140 kW) |
| Torque | 176 lb·ft @ 4,300 – 4,500 rpm (239 N·m) |
| Induction | Atmospheric |
| Fuel type | Premium |
| Engine | Electric (rear, left) |
| Power | 54 hp (40 kW) |
| Torque | 89 lb·ft (121 N·m) |
| Engine | Electric (front, center) |
| Power | 180 hp (134 kW) |
| Torque | 199 lb·ft (270 N·m) |
| Transmission | CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Hybrid / Electric | |
| Battery type | Lithium-ion (Li-ion) |
| Energy | N/A |
| Voltage | 259 V |
| Charging times | 120V: N/A240V: N/A400V: N/A |
| Cooling | N/A |
| Drivetrain structure | Series-Parallel |
| Vehicle type / Category | |
| Vehicle type | SUV |
| Category | Compact luxury SUV, Hybrid / Plug-in Hybrid |
| Assembly | Cambridge, ON, CA |
| Generation | 2 |
| Fuel efficiency / Autonomy | |
| City | 5.7 L/100km |
| Highway | 6.4 L/100km |
| Combined | 6.0 L/100km |
| Autonomy | 916 km |
| Electric autonomy | N/A |
| CO₂ emissions | 140 g/km |
| Equipment | |
| Sunroof | optional |
| Heated front seats | standard |
| Heated rear seats | optional |
| Heated steering wheel | standard |
| Ventilated front seats | optional |
| Head-up display | optional |
| Surround-view camera | optional |
| Smart key | standard |
| Blindspot detection | standard |
| Forward collision warning | standard |
| Autonomous emergency braking | standard |
| Lane departure warning | standard |
| Adaptive cruise control | standard |
| Remote engine start | standard |
| GPS | optional |
| Infotainment | |
| Front USB ports | standard |
| Rear USB ports | standard |
| Apple CarPlay compatible | standard |
| Android Auto compatible | standard |
| Sirius XM | standard |
| Bluetooth audio | standard |
| Wi-Fi hotspot | not available |
| Wireless phone charging | optional |
| Steering / Suspension / Brakes / Tires | |
| Steering | rack and pinion, electric assistance |
| Front suspension | independent, Macpherson strut |
| Rear suspension | independent, double wishbones |
| Front brakes | Disc (ABS) |
| Rear brakes | Disc (ABS) |
| Front tires | P235/60R18 |
| Rear tires | P235/60R18 |
| Safety | |
| Seat belts | 5 |
| Dimensions / Weight | |
| Length | 4,661 mm (184″) |
| Width | 1,865 mm (73″) |
| Height | 1,671 mm (66″) |
| Wheelbase | 2,690 mm (106″) |
| Weight | 1,850 kg (4,079 lb) |
| Capacities | |
| Passengers | 5 |
| Trunk | between 643 l and 1,328 l |
| Fuel tank | 55 l (12 gal) |
| Towing capacity | 907 kg (2,000 lb) |
| Performance | |
| Power to weight ratio | 96.7 W/kg |
| 0-100 km/h | 7.4 s (manufacturer) |
| 80-120 km/h | 5.6 s (estimated) |
| Top speed | 200 km/h (124 mph) (manufacturer) |
| Braking distance | N/A |
