Lexus Goes Prime - All-New NX Gets A Plug-In Hybrid Powertrain

Lexus has updated its NX crossover series for 2022 and the big news is that it will have the powertrain from Toyota's hot RAV4 Prime. The plug-in hybrid-electric (PHEV) version is called the NX 450h+. Like the Prime version of the RAV4, the 450h+ version of the NX will be the fastest, most capable, and most efficient of the line. Like the RAV4 Prime, it will allow for all-electric operation for a commutable distance, roughly 36 miles, and then will revert to being a hybrid-electric vehicle when the EV range is depleted. The RAV4 Prime was the second-fastest selling vehicle in America this past March behind only the Corvette. To say the RAV4 Prime has been a success is a big understatement.

New NX Powertrain Options
The NX can come powered multiple ways. The familiar Hybrid trim is augmented by the 450h+ PHEV and also a new 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. The turbo will be for consumers who are not comfortable with electrification and will settle for a less responsive, slower, and less efficient powertrain. It is not the fastest of the engine options, the PHEV is. Lexus will also offer a standard non-turbo gas engine. We have no idea why this model needs four engine options, one of which is ridiculously slow and inefficient for the segment and the times, but perhaps it is to enable a very low entry price point for advertising. AWD is optional on some trims, but standard on the PHEV. In the NX 450h+, the AWD system is the ultra-modern all-electric AWD system from the RAV4 prime.

The MPG and power options above are partly estimates. Lexus has not filled in all the blanks yet. However, since the vehicle has many chared components with the RAV4, we do have good guesses.

New NX Infotainment System
Thankfully, Lexus has dropped the silly man-machine interfaces aka mouse pads, for the new NX. The touchscreen looks simple to use and there are volume and tuner knobs in the images if we see them right. The screen is larger and updated. The NX will feature wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

NX Moves To Run-Flat Tires
We reached out to Lexus to find out if the NX will have a spare tire. The answer was, "No." Instead, Lexus will fit run-flat tires. While run-flats certainly offer a solution to get you home in the event of a puncture, we are not thrilled with this change. Run-flat tires are more expensive than conventional tires, offered in fewer winter tread options, and do not provide a solution to a large puncture or sidewall damaged tire.

Related Story: We Try BMW Run Flat Tires And Give Them Two Thumbs Down

Lexus Driver Assist Updates
The Lexus driver-assist suite is now called Lexus Safety System+ 3.0. It will include:
- Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist – helps support collision avoidance within the lane by providing gentle braking and steering operation.
- Left Turn Oncoming Vehicle Detection/Braking – designed to provide a warning and automatic braking if the driver turns left in front of an oncoming vehicle.
- Right/Left Turn Oncoming Pedestrian Detection/Braking – designed to provide a warning and automatic braking if a driver turns left or right in front of an oncoming pedestrian or cyclist.
- Oncoming Vehicle Detection added to the Pre-Collision System – designed to alert the driver, and, potentially activate automatic emergency braking to help avoid a frontal collision.
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management – maintains a cruising speed in alignment with the flow of traffic while managing speed on curves.

We will update our overview of the new NX when more details emerge. Watch for the new NX to begin arriving at your local Lexus dealer this coming late summer or fall.

John Goreham is a long-time New England Motor Press Association member and recovering engineer. John's interest in EVs goes back to 1990 when he designed the thermal control system for an EV battery as part of an academic team. After earning his mechanical engineering degree, John completed a marketing program at Northeastern University and worked with automotive component manufacturers, in the semiconductor industry, and in biotech. In addition to Torque News, John's work has appeared in print in dozens of American newspapers and he provides reviews to many vehicle shopping sites. You can follow John on TikTok @ToknCars, on Twitter, and view his credentials at Linkedin