Story | William Ha Photography | Lexus Media, William Ha
With gas prices reaching record highs in Canada this year, Lexus’ introduction of its first-ever plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) couldn’t have come at a better time.
The second-generation Lexus NX compact crossover, specifically the range-topping Lexus NX450h+ PHEV with the optional FSPORT 3 package (pictured), is the ideal package for shoppers seeking a crossover electric vehicle (EV) with the security of a gasoline engine. It is the sportiest, most technologically advanced model within the NX family.
High Style
The exterior styling is clean and upscale, with beautifully designed triple-beam headlights that light up the road wonderfully at night and give the front end a pleasingly aggressive look. Another notable change is at the rear of the vehicle. “LEXUS” is now spelled out, and the taillights span the width of the electrically-operated rear hatch, which can conveniently be opened touch-free with the swipe of a foot under the rear bumper.
The plug-in outlet on the passenger side is easy to operate, and locks the charger plug in place automatically once inserted to ensure a tamper-proof connection. The F SPORT 3 package offers more distinctive styling touches, such as a blacked-out grille, black polished wheels, colourmatching fender flares and black roof rails. For buyers who want to turn more heads, a new colour called Cadmium Orange might suit your tastes.
Buttoned-Down Interior
The interior looks and feels premium, and is extremely well-insulated from road and wind noise, as expected from Lexus. The black/white interior in our test vehicle offers a unique look (all black and red/black are also available interior options paired with select exterior colours), and the power heated/ventilated front seats are as comfortable as they are well-bolstered. All controls are within easy reach.
A large 14-inch touch screen dominates the centre console that houses Lexus Interface, their new infotainment system that’s compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The screen houses a full menu of controls that will take practice to master, but offers many conveniences, like over-the-air software updates, a suite of personalization options, and an excellent voice command system that can activate navigation, media, phone and vehicle features like the climate controls.
Thankfully, there are still knobs to control the sound system volume and temperature settings, along with a high-resolution display of vehicle speed, alerts and other driving information projected on the windshield for the driver.
For those who enjoy personalizing their environment with lighting, there is a fun thematic ambient lighting system that offers 64 colours organized into a choice of 14 nature-based themes like ‘Rain Forest,’ ‘Waterfall’ and ‘Sunset.’ F SPORT-specific interior touches include a trick gauge cluster that changes graphics when you select Sport and Sport+ drive modes (these modes also enhance engine and suspension responsiveness), a thicker, sportier heated steering wheel for enhanced grip during spirited driving and aluminum pedals matched with stylish F SPORT door sill plates.
Another feature that can’t go unnoticed is a new electric latch system that opens your door with the push of a button from inside. Similarly for the exterior, you do not pull on the door handle. Rather, you simply press a button behind each stationary door handle to open the door.
Safety
All expected safety features in this class of vehicle are included as part of Lexus’ Safety System + 3.0. There is blind spot monitoring, front and rear cross traffic alert, plus a parking assist feature that provides automatic braking as needed when a passing vehicle or pedestrian is detected. On the centre console screen, a panoramic view of the vehicle is displayed to help the driver manoeuvre more confidently when parking or entering tight spaces.
When leaving the vehicle, Lexus’ Safe Exit Assist system alerts you when passing vehicles or cyclists are sensed. Even the frameless rear-view mirror is cutting-edge; with a flip of a tab under the mirror, the driver can switch the view to a wider-range digital display for greater safety and glare reduction from bright headlights.
The Drive
The stand-out feature of the PHEV drivetrain is a best-in-class EV driving range, up to 61 kilometres before the gasoline engine kicks in. This achievement is the result of a new, high-capacity battery developed by Lexus. With a fast charger, the battery can be fully recharged within 2.5 hours for greener driving.
When fully charged with 304 horsepower on tap, the NX450h+ takes about six seconds to accelerate to 100km/h, which is more than enough power. The fuel economy-friendly Continuously-Variable Transmission (CVT) runs smoothly and unobtrusively, as do transitions from EV to gasoline engine mode.
The F-SPORT version offers an Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) that noticeably improves handling stability by increasing steering response and stiffening the suspension to minimize body roll when driving aggressively on winding roads. The ride is on the firm side due to the large 20-inch wheels and sporty suspension, but not jarring.
Inspiring Confidence
Overall, the NX450h+ PHEV’s identity is one of confidence based on its range anxiety-free EV drivetrain and the full suite of advanced safety features. It’s got just the right splash of sporty styling inside and out, which makes it a compelling option for luxury compact vehicle shoppers.
2022 Lexus NX450h+ PHEV F SPORT 3 at a glance
Price: From $59,950 ($77,000 as tested)
Drivetrain Gasoline Engine: 2.5L 4 cylinder Lexus Hybrid Drive with 6.6kW AC Charger
Horsepower (hp): 304 total (gas engine plus electric motor)
Torque (lb-ft): Not disclosed
Transmission: CVT
Fuel Consumption (L/100km): 6.2, 7.0 and 6.6 (city, highway and city/highway combined)
Max Towing (lbs): 2,000
0-100km/h Acceleration: 6.0 seconds (with battery charged)
Key Competitors: Audi Q5 55e, Volvo XC60 Recharge
Dimensions: Length 183.5″, Width 73.4″, Height 65.4″
Wheelbase: 105.9″
Cargo Capacity (cubic feet): 46.9 (1,328 Litres)
