The new Lexus NX is set to make its debut September 1, replacing the company’s second-best-selling model in the U.S. The next-generation crossover is expected to continue Lexus’ move toward electrified powertrains, while a fully electric version remains a possibility.
Why the New Lexus NX Matters
The NX is a major model for Lexus in the U.S. Nearly 77,000 NX vehicles left Lexus dealers in the country last year, making the Japanese luxury brand’s second-smallest model its second-best-seller behind the RX, which recorded 113,000 units.
Lexus first introduced the NX in 2014 before launching its second generation in 2021. The upcoming model is therefore almost certainly the third generation, although it may retain several design elements from the current SUV.
The teaser image shows a C-pillar that appears very similar to the one on the existing NX. That is not unexpected, as the NX is loosely based on the Toyota RAV4’s platform. The new RAV4 also retained some structural elements from its predecessor, including the roof.
CarBuzz spies have photographed other Lexus SUVs during testing, including the facelifted RX, but the NX has not been spotted. The prototypes may look sufficiently similar to the current model that they have gone unnoticed.
Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid Powertrains Expected
The latest Lexus and Toyota models have been offered with either fully electric or fully hybrid powertrains, and the new NX is expected to follow the same approach.
The current NX 350h uses a 240-horsepower hybrid system, which is 14 hp more than the latest RAV4. Lexus also offers the NX as a plug-in hybrid, and the NX 450h+ currently produces 304 hp with 37 miles of range.
The latest RAV4 PHEV, meanwhile, delivers 324 hp and up to 52 miles of range. The Lexus will probably beat at least the power figure, because you can’t have a Toyota delivering more than the Lexus.
Could the Lexus NX Get a Fully Electric Version?
A fully electric NX is not confirmed, but Lexus has already shown that it is willing to add an EV alongside electrified versions of an existing model.
When Lexus introduced the latest ES early last year, the company surprised with a fully electric model. The ES 500e offered 276 miles of range and 338 horsepower, while the 350e delivered 307 miles with 221 hp.
The EV also launched with a starting price more than $2,000 below the hybrid, making it a strong value and a big – excuse the pun – shock.
There is no confirmation that Lexus will repeat that strategy with the NX. However, a fully electric version remains possible.
What to Expect From the Next Lexus NX
The NX is an important vehicle for Lexus, and the new model is expected to change enough to give buyers a reason to switch while maintaining the evolutionary approach the brand typically takes.
Lexus knows what its buyers want, and the new crossover is expected to deliver that with a little more. Adding an EV could make the next-generation NX a significant move for the brand.
The full reveal is scheduled for September 1, meaning the wait to see the next Lexus NX is nearly over. The new model is expected to go on sale early next year.
