Lexus NX review - Engines, performance and drive

The second-generation Lexus NX sits on the same TNGA-K platform as the Toyota RAV4, which means this premium SUV is also offered with a plug-in hybrid powertrain – a first for Lexus. All models feature a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine, with the plug-in hybrid 450h+ adding two electric motors to deliver a total of 302bhp and the benefits of four-wheel-drive.

You’ll still find the familiar self-charging hybrid model, badged 350h, on the price list. It’s available with either front or all-wheel-drive, but is down on power compared with its plug-in sibling, producing 241bhp. 

All NX’s use a CVT automatic transmission which we’ve previously levelled much criticism at for its rather noisy character, particularly when accelerating hard. We found it a better match for the 450h+, where the plug-in version can draw on its electric power to help reduce engine drone. 

The dual-motor setup also offers plenty of torque in all-electric mode; quick off the mark from a standing start and easily able to deliver zero emissions driving at motorway speeds. You won’t find the petrol engine cutting in if you stamp on the throttle, either, although a quick press of the hybrid button on the centre console allows for pretty seamless switches between fossil fuel and battery power.

What is the Lexus NX like to drive?

In town

The easy way in which the NX juggles between its two power sources manoeuvring through busy city streets is impressive, managing to utilise electric as often as possible to offer far greater refinement than a traditional petrol or diesel SUV. Of course, the plug-in hybrid 450h is even more refined than the 350h because it’s able to use electric power alone far longer than the regular hybrid thanks to its larger 18.1kWh battery - unless you demand maximum acceleration and require the engine to kick on to help out.

The NX rides remarkably well at low speeds, preventing any nasty shocks from potholes to really disturb your journey.

On A- and B-roads

For a premium hybrid SUV that has a focus on comfort and luxury, the NX handles well enough; able to take on faster bends without losing its composure and secure at higher speeds. It’s not as fun to drive as a BMW X3, but we think it's sharper than its Audi Q5 rival, and also rate the driving experience above that of the Mazda CX-60 and Volvo XC60.

On the motorway

While the Audi Q5 feels slightly more stable than the Lexus NX at higher speeds, the NX does a good job of isolating occupants from unwanted wind and road noise. 

The 450h plug-in hybrid behaves more like a regular hybrid car once the battery has been depleted, proving to be much smoother and more efficient than other PHEV rivals. The engine is also muffled better than the Mazda CX-60 and Volvo XC60, which is great for longer motorway trips.

0-62mph acceleration and top speed

If you’re after the quickest NX, then the 302bhp 450h+ plug-in hybrid model is the one to go for. 0-62mph is taken care of in 6.3 seconds with a 112mph maximum, which should be brisk enough for most tastes. The 350h self-charging hybrid version is down on power to the tune of 61bhp, which results in slightly slower sprint times – the front-wheel-drive car managing 0-62mph in 8.7 seconds, and the four-wheel-drive variant taking 7.7 seconds.