Autofocus: 2022 Lexus NX 350h UK Version
Introducing a new era of opulence, Lexus fully embraces electrification, intuitive technology, performance, and cutting-edge design. The recently launched 2022 Lexus NX 330h heralds a host of groundbreaking features, with a particular focus on catering to the North American market through its all-new Lexus Interface multimedia system. The Lexus NX is one of the best Crossover SUVs and this new model further ensures that the Lexus NX is a mainstay in this highly competitive category.
Sporting a lower center of gravity and a more robust stance, the all-new NX seamlessly blends potent design, intuitive innovation, and limitless functionality. A standout enhancement lies in the debut of the Lexus Interface, a state-of-the-art multimedia and digital support system showcased on the optional 14-inch touchscreen display. This system boasts features such as over-the-air updates, wireless charging, and seamless smartphone connectivity tailored to the user’s unique profile. Complementing this is the standard integration of Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, inclusive of the Blind Spot Monitor, ensuring a comprehensive safety suite. Moreover, the inclusion of Safe Exit Assist and the groundbreaking Digital Latch system further streamlines the process of safely exiting the vehicle, elevating convenience to new heights.
Powerful Design for the Future
From the refined spindle grille to the newly introduced full-width blade taillamps and distinctive LEXUS rear badging, the all-new 2022 Lexus NX sends a commanding message to those encountering this luxury crossover. Upfront, the revamped grille pattern and frame seamlessly integrate with the vehicle’s body, creating a harmonious visual effect. Comprising tall U-shaped blocks, the spindle grille achieves a striking three-dimensional impression, adding depth and exuding a formidable presence. Crowned by the L-shaped daytime running lights (DRL), the optional three-projector headlamps strike a balanced tone, offering a more subdued yet sophisticated impression.
Moving to the rear, the Lexus logo undergoes a redesign, adopting a forward-looking and contemporary aesthetic. The traditional L emblem gives way to a unified LEXUS logo positioned at the vehicle’s center. The rear features a full-width blade rear combination lamp, akin to the design found in the Lexus UX and IS models, along with an L-shaped lamp on the rear fender, creating a distinctive expression unique to the NX. The light bar lamps, consistently illuminated at night, serve as both taillights and a means to showcase the rear brand signature.
A plethora of fresh colors awaits prospective owners, allowing them to personalize their NX experience. Options include Redline, Cloudburst Gray, and Grecian Water. For those opting for the F SPORT models, the exclusive palette features Ultra White, Obsidian, and Ultra Sonic Blue Mica 2.0, providing a range of stylish choices to suit individual preferences.
Driver-Focused Cockpit Design
The driver-centric cockpit of the NX has undergone meticulous design to establish a seamless connection between the driver and the vehicle. Introducing two NX firsts, the 7-inch Multi-Instrument Display (MID) and the optional 10-inch Head-Up Display (HUD) are strategically positioned to relay vital vehicle information, alerts, and updates directly within the driver’s line of sight. The MID adopts a single-meter layout presented on a high-definition screen, ensuring optimal visibility. Emphasizing a commitment to safety, most driving-related functions are conveniently concentrated on the steering wheel, allowing for intuitive operation while ensuring the driver’s focus remains on the road.
At the center stack, the standard 9.8-inch touchscreen brings a myriad of multimedia features within effortless reach. Taking it a step further, the optional 14-inch touchscreen, a pioneering feature for the NX, provides an immersive and expansive multimedia experience. Despite the advancements, familiar dial controls persist for frequently used functions like climate control and media volume. Notably, comfort features such as heated seat selection have been refined for more immediate accessibility. Collectively, these enhancements culminate in a more user-friendly, digitally enhanced in-vehicle experience, reinforcing Lexus’ commitment to delivering a heightened sense of driving convenience and connectivity.
Hybrid Combines Performance and Fuel Economy
Experience exceptional performance and fuel efficiency with the all-new Lexus NX 350h, where the synergy of power and economy takes center stage. Boasting a combined output of 239 horsepower, marking a remarkable 20 percent increase from its predecessor, and an impressive manufacturer-estimated 36 MPG, a substantial 6 MPG improvement, this NX hybrid exemplifies the brand’s unwavering commitment to hybrid excellence. Notably, the acceleration is enhanced, with a quicker 0-60 time, shaving off an impressive 1.5 seconds from previous generations, now clocking in at 7.2 seconds.
The Lexus Hybrid Drive system harmoniously integrates a D4-S fuel injection 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine with two high-torque electric drive motor generators, ensuring robust acceleration and formidable passing performance. Departing from conventional transfer gears and a driveshaft to the rear wheels, the AWD system employs a second, independent electric motor dedicated to driving the rear wheels when necessary, enhancing traction and ensuring optimal performance in diverse driving conditions. This innovative approach underscores Lexus’ leadership in hybrid technology, delivering a dynamic driving experience that seamlessly combines power and efficiency.
Driving Performance – All-New NX 350 2.4 Turbo Engine
Benefiting from a new lower center of gravity and reinforced vehicle rigidity, the NX 350 now accommodates a potent 2.4 turbo gas engine. The introduction of an advanced 8-speed transmission imbues the gas-powered NX with the spirited feel of a performance vehicle while maintaining the elevated perspective expected from a crossover utility vehicle. Achieved through groundbreaking methods such as laser peening welding and the incorporation of high rigidity foam, both Lexus firsts, these innovations enhance torsional rigidity, with the twin hood lock further contributing to front lateral flexural rigidity and optimizing the vehicle’s aerodynamics.
The turbocharged gas engine, generating an estimated 275 horsepower and an impressive 317 lb. ft. of torque, propels the NX 350 from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.8 seconds, a notable half-second improvement from its predecessor.
In addition to the high-performance NX 350, the NX 250 offers a naturally aspirated gas engine, providing a comprehensive range of options for discerning guests. Featuring a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gas engine with start/stop functionality and an eight-speed transmission, the NX 250 is available in both FWD and AWD configurations. Delivering an estimated 203 horsepower and 184 lb. ft. of torque, the NX 250 achieves 0-60 times 8.2 seconds (FWD) and 8.6 seconds (AWD), catering to drivers seeking a balance of efficiency and responsive performance.
Lexus Interface: An All-New Elegant, Intuitive and Desired Connected Multimedia System
The all-new, North American-developed Lexus Interface multimedia system transforms the NX into a seamlessly connected companion, adept at navigating life’s twists and turns. The visually striking standard 9.8-inch touchscreen places intuitive technology at the fingertips of occupants, while the screen’s innovative Human Machine Interface (HMI) elevates user interaction through sight, touch, and voice, carefully considering accessibility needs. For an enhanced experience, an optional 14-inch touchscreen is available, integrating automatic climate control functions seamlessly.
Lexus Interface introduces a cutting-edge Virtual Assistant designed with a human-centered approach, positioning it as the primary method for guests to interact with the multimedia system. Equipped with dual microphones, advanced noise-cancellation, seat detection, and speaker location capabilities, this system adopts a voice-first approach. This empowers front-seat occupants with an expanded and interactive experience, allowing them to effortlessly access navigation, media, phone functions, as well as specific vehicle settings like climate control and window operations.
Recognizing the prevalence of smartphones, Lexus Interface delivers an intuitive and straightforward guest experience. The Lexus Interface User Profile feature ensures that the driver’s personalized settings and experience are securely stored in the cloud, and easily accessible on the go in other vehicles equipped with Lexus Interface. Once a profile is established in the Lexus App, guests can seamlessly access it using a Bluetooth handheld device, smart key, or through manual login, ensuring a consistently tailored experience across various Lexus Interface-equipped vehicles.
Expanding on the convenience of the User Profile feature, Digital Key empowers guests to lock/unlock and start/stop their vehicle using their smartphone when in Bluetooth proximity. This feature extends further, allowing the Digital Key to be shared with up to seven additional guests, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience for users registered on the Lexus App.
The native navigation system integrated into Lexus Interface is a testament to both ease of use and functional elegance. Boasting 100 percent cloud capability and Google Points of Interest (POI) data integration, the system provides swifter and more accurate directions and mapping. Real-time over-the-air (OTA) updates keep mapping information current, enhancing the overall navigation and media experiences. Notably, the native navigation remains accessible to occupants with or without a network connection, utilizing an offline mode that anticipates low-connectivity areas and proactively downloads relevant maps and services in advance.
In a significant enhancement for 2022, the Lexus NX comes equipped with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities. The new optional wireless charger, which can be neatly stowed away to maximize storage, enables guests to wirelessly charge and stream with unparalleled convenience. These features collectively contribute to an enriched in-vehicle experience, embracing the latest in technology for both connectivity and user-friendly navigation.
Enhanced Safety with All Passengers in Mind: Lexus Safety System+ 3.0
Introducing the innovative Digital Latch system, the all-new Lexus NX takes the experience of entering and exiting the vehicle to a new level. Doors open smoothly with just a touch of a button, enhancing convenience and providing a modern touch to the overall user experience. Complementing this, the Safe Exit Assist utilizes environmental scanning to alert both the driver and passengers, mitigating the risk of accidental contact with nearby vehicles and cyclists. This feature ensures secure and safe door openings and closings, emphasizing safety in every aspect of the vehicle’s operation.
For enhanced visibility and obstacle awareness, the optional Digital Mirror introduces a cutting-edge solution. Providing a clear view of obstacles behind the vehicle, this feature further enhances safety and aids drivers in navigating their surroundings with confidence. The combination of the Digital Latch system, Safe Exit Assist, and the optional Digital Mirror reflects Lexus’ commitment to advancing technology for a safer and more seamless driving experience.
Illuminating the Way: Inside and Out
The 2022 NX continues Lexus’s legacy of exceptional interior cabin noise reduction, with additional updates specifically targeted at minimizing road noise and external distractions. Inside, drivers have the opportunity to create a serene atmosphere with the optional Thematic Ambient Illumination, inspired by nature. This feature bathes the NX interior in a choice of 14 themes and 64 colors, carefully selected to evoke ephemeral emotions and nature-inspired feelings. Themes such as Rain Forest, Waterfall, and Sunset contribute to a personalized and calming ambiance.
The commitment to comfort is evident with newly designed standard heated front seats and optional heated rear seats, providing a cozy environment throughout the cabin. The adoption of the Lexus GA-K platform contributes to increased head and legroom, while additional storage space has been seamlessly incorporated into the rear cargo area.
The interior upholstery and console colors, including Black, Black with Rich Cream, Palomino, and Rioja Red NuLuxe, cater to individual preferences. Redesigned ornamentation adds to the overall aesthetic, with the Stippled Black pattern on the entry model creating a dynamic front-rear movement illusion. The Luxury model features opulent Black Open Pore wood, while the newly developed Black Prism introduces an advanced Piano Black texture with a three-dimensional fractal design, gradually becoming denser toward the rear, creating a high-tech ambiance that transforms with shifts in sunlight.
For the first time in the NX, a panoramic moonroof allows both front and rear passengers to enjoy an unobstructed view of the sky with a simple push of a button. The smooth gliding opening and closing motion of the moonroof provide an effortless way to appreciate the stars or invite additional airflow on sunny days, elevating the overall driving experience.