• The Lexus NX went through a substantial mid-lifecycle update.
  • The Japanese SUV gains fresh looks and an overhauled interior.
  • It also benefits from improved hybrid and PHEV powertrains.

Lexus has unveiled a facelifted version of the NX, five years after the debut of the second generation. The second-best selling Lexus behind the RX gains a sharper face, an overhauled interior and important updates under the skin heralded by improved hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains.

Starting with the design, the changes are centered on the redesigned front end. The aggressive headlights adopt a new LED lighting signature and connect to the sculpted Spindle grille and the triangular bumper intakes.

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The profile looks familiar but Lexus added new options for the alloy wheels to freshen it up alongside the removal of chrome accents. At the rear, the updated taillight graphics feature an L-shaped motif flanking the illuminated badge.

The F Sport trim adds piano black accents to the exterior complemented by new 20-inch wheels, red brake calipers, and subtle aero add-ons. Finally, the color palette expands with the new Sonic Platinum, Sonic Tellus khaki green, and F Sport-exclusive Titanium Carbide Grey shades.

Inside, the dashboard has been completely redesigned, taking cues from the latest ES sedan. The centerpiece is the free-standing 14-inch infotainment display running the latest Lexus Connect software which is combined with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, tweaked climate vents and new physical controls with haptic feedback that disappear when not in use.

Lexus has introduced a new Clay Red option for the upholstery, alongside a Dark Brown Oak wood trim, and a Forged Bamboo trim made from 55% bio-materials. High-spec models get the Lexus Sensory Concierge system which synchronizes ambient lighting, screen patterns, climate control, seat heating, and custom cabin fragrances across three modes – Inspire, Radiance, and Revitalise.

Under the skin, mechanical and powertrain upgrades over the outgoing model are equally substantial. The TNGA-K architecture benefits from increased structural rigidity, accompanied by revised suspension tuning and enhanced noise isolation. More importantly, both the HEV and PHEV powertrains have been upgraded to the sixth generation of Lexus hybrid technology, with greater efficiency and performance.

This is a developing story and will be updated…

Lexus