2022 Lexus NX

Pros: Available hybrid powertrains; high-quality contemporary interior design; much-improved infotainment interface

Cons: Base engine isn’t very powerful; polarizing styling; high-end models get pricey

CG Says: Lexus kicks off the second generation of its NX compact SUV with a completely redesigned model for 2022. Among the noteworthy new features are an expanded powertrain lineup, fresh interior and exterior styling, and a much-improved infotainment interface that uses a touchscreen instead of the previous console-mounted touchpad. Like the previous-design NX, the 2022 NX is once again based on the Toyota RAV4 platform, and is roughly the same size. However, the two SUVs differ considerably in their styling, available equipment, and overall feel.

Four different powertrains are offered, each with its own separate model designation: The base NX 250 has a 203-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, and the NX 350 has a 275-hp turbocharged 2.4-liter four; both of these engines use an 8-speed automatic transmission. The NX 350h combines two electric motors and a 2.5-liter four for a total of 239 horsepower; the top-line NX 450h+ is a plug-in hybrid that combines an electric motor with the 2.5-liter four for a total of 302 horsepower and an estimated all-electric driving range of 37 miles. Both hybrid powertrains use a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The NX 250 is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive; all other NX models are all-wheel-drive only.

The NX 350 and NX 450h+ are available in F Sport trim, which includes sport-tuned adaptive suspension, 20-inch black wheels, unique paint options, and exclusive trim details.

The new NX’s cabin is designed to be somewhat roomier than the previous version, especially in the backseat, with additional cargo space as well, according to Lexus. Available luxury interior touches include heated rear seats, panoramic sunroof, and open-pore wood trim. The all-new Lexus Interface touchscreen infotainment system replaces the unloved Remote Touch console-mounted touchpad, and includes a new voice-command system and smartphone-accessible connected-vehicle features, as well as standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity. A 9.8-inch touchscreen is standard and a 14-inch screen with upgraded features is optional.

Standard on all NX models is the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 set of safety-tech features. It includes adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, evasive steering assist, and collision warning.

The previous-design NX was already a respectable premium compact SUV, but competition in this class had gotten tougher since its introduction. This new version brings the line up to date, with a better infotainment interface and Lexus’s typical interior refinement. Sweetening the NX’s appeal are its new hybrid powertrains, particularly the NX 450h — it has the power that luxury buyers expect, with the potential for excellent fuel economy.