Lexus made the NX quicker, more fuel-efficient, and swankier, although it isn't particularly engaging to drive.
We think the best version is the hybrid.
It gets 38 mpg overall, and the powertrain feels more refined during regular driving than the NX 350's 275-hp turbocharged four-cylinder.
That engine returned 25 mpg overall in our tests.
Handling is responsive though short of sporty, and the ride is firm but comfortable.
The cabin is impeccably furnished but narrow, and outward visibility is hampered by thick roof pillars and small windows, particularly toward the rear.
A new touchscreen infotainment system replaces the previous NX's fussy touchpad setup.
The electronic interior door releases, unintuitive gear selector, and low center dash vents are small faults.
The redesigned 2022 Lexus NX looks much like the outgoing model, but beneath that familiar design is a raft of improvements.
The cabin is completely transformed, with a more modern instrument panel, larger infotainment screen, and increased passenger space.
There are four powertrains available: a base engine that's less powerful than before, a stronger turbocharged choice, a hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid.
A 9.8-inch infotainment screen and wireless phone connectivity is standard, and there is an available 14-inch screen.
Both options use Lexus new next-gen multimedia interface.
An optional 10-inch head-up display is new, putting key travel information right in the driver's view.
Lexus claims that head- and legroom have increased for all passengers.
Every 2022 NX comes standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite of active driver assistance features, including FCW, AEB with pedestrian detection, BSW, and RCTW. Several previously optional features became standard for 2025 including a power liftgate, auto rain-sensing wipers, and Lexus Intuitive Parking Assist -- a system which warns drivers of approaching objects while parking and can apply the brakes to reduce the risk of a parking collision.
Lexus also added two USB type-C ports to the front console.
Lexus finally enters the luxury compact SUV market with the Toyota RAV4-based NX.
Lexus's first turbo engine, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder mated to a six-speed automatic, works well and delivers 24 mpg overall.
The NX 300h hybrid uses a 194-hp engine with a CVT, and its 29 mpg overall makes it the most fuel efficient SUV we've ever tested.
The NX delivers a sportier, less cushy driving experience than the larger RX.
The interior is adorned with nice stitching but some cheap touches are evident, and the cabin is very tight, with compromised visibility.
The dash gets a multipurpose center screen controlled by a fussy touchpad that requires a distracting level of focus to manipulate. Changes for 2018 included standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. Changes for 2020 include standard Android Auto compatibility.
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