The Lexus NX is one of the most in-demand SUVs from the Japanese firm since its launch in 2014. A key to its great acceptance is found in its size, large but not excessive—it measures 4.66 meters in length—which places it in a middle ground between the UX models, with a more urban focus, and the stately RX, which can have seven seats in some of its versions.
In the renewal that took place in 2022, the NX arrived with the important novelty that it was offered for the first time in a plug-in hybrid variant, which was added to another full hybrid or self-charging – the true specialty of the brand until then – which already used the fourth generation of the Toyota group’s hybrid system.
The plug-in version, NX 450h+, currently on sale from 71,300 euros, has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and an 18.1 kWh rechargeable lithium-ion battery, the largest capacity of its class. An additional rear electric motor enables all-wheel drive operation. The system produces 309 hp and allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds. On the other hand, the carbon dioxide emissions figures in the WLTP combined cycle are below 25 g/km, and the approved consumption is around 1 liter per 100 kilometers.
As for the conventional hybrid, NX 350h, it is available from 53,700 euros in its basic finish and provides more than 20% additional power than the previous model, up to 243 HP; In addition, it improves acceleration from 0-100 km/h by 15%, up to 7.7 seconds – in the four-wheel drive versions -, while reducing carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 10%. .
The most recent update of the Lexus mid-size SUV has brought with it a long series of improvements designed to elevate its status one more level. premium. Many of the changes focus on a cabin conceived as a luxurious rest room, and others are related to the technology and the degree of mechanical efficiency obtained.
Coinciding with this update, the brand decided to expand the range of the NX 350h in such a way that the finish Luxury It would no longer be offered only with all-wheel drive, but also with front-wheel drive, in order to offer its customers more mechanical options to choose from.
The model has begun to offer very sophisticated devices in its offer, among which the new generation nanoe Ultra-Wideband—, which is standard throughout the range.
Other interesting developments have to do with security. For example, the one that favors the digital interior mirror, available in the finish Luxurywhich features an enhanced auto-dimming mode to reduce glare from the headlights of vehicles behind you and ensure clear vision. For its part, the new rear brake light, located in the upper part of the tailgate, allows for greater visibility and clarity in order to prevent collisions.
A final improvement introduced in the NX aims to reduce fuel consumption, especially in vehicles with integrated navigation that carry the new Predictive Efficient Driving system, designed to optimize the charging and discharging of the battery in hybrid models and the use of electric and hybrid modes in plug-in hybrids.
To enjoy the outdoors
In the spring of 2024, Lexus has surprised with the addition to the NX range of a new, more rugged version called Overtrail. It is not, however – according to the manufacturer itself – a conventional off-road vehicle, but rather “a new concept designed for those customers whose lifestyle converges between the development of outdoor activities, enjoying the outdoors, and the passion for driving on all types of terrain.”
The philosophy of the concept Overtrail It is based on Lexus’ commitment and desire to offer a vehicle that allows its customers to “take trips that bring them closer to the heart of nature” -continues the Asian firm-. That makes it possible for them to reach those places where they can enjoy the whisper of the wind. From the calm of the forest. Family picnics with majestic views. “Or simply travel along rural roads.”
The new NX Overtrail It sports a series of aesthetic details and exterior improvements that make it special and exclusive. It has a raised suspension with 15 millimeters more ground clearance and newly designed 18-inch alloy wheels fitted with robust all-terrain tires.
In the exterior design we find exclusive elements in a uniform black finish such as the exterior mirrors, the door handles, the wheel arch moldings and the roof rails, to which are added the metallic black moldings on the windows and the wheels in matte black. The double arrowhead grille is even more prominent, with a shiny metallic machined surround.
This version of guidance off road It is available only for the hybrid model, NX 350h, equipped with Lexus 4WD. Its price currently amounts to 71,100 euros.
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