Overview
After sitting back and watching the rest of the luxury-subcompact-SUV scene mature over the past few years, the Lexus NX is finally getting back in the game with a modernization of its own. Spy photos reveal styling that’s more streamlined than the outgoing generation’s, featuring LED headlamps and a windshield with a softer rake. Although we expect the NX to share its chassis and powertrains with the Toyota RAV4, the camouflaged mule better resembles Lexus’s small UX crossover, albeit taller and wider. Lexus will likely offer the 2022 model with two different gasoline-powered engines and also a hybrid. The official reveal of the redesigned SUV should happen sometime in 2021. When the new NX goes on sale, we expect it will pose a bigger threat to popular small SUVs—namely the Audi Q3, the BMW X1, and the Mercedes-Benz GLA-class—than its predecessor did.
What’s New for 2022?
Lexus has redesigned its subcompact SUV for the 2022 model year. The ute should make its debut before the end of 2021.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
We expect the redesigned NX to maintain a starting price under $40,000, but that base model may be too spartan for some luxury shoppers. Selecting the mid-range NX350 will almost certainly bring a more refined powertrain and additional luxury features. We will know more about the 2022 NX’s pricing, standard features, and options closer to the SUV’s release and will update this story with details when we have them.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Lexus hasn’t confirmed the 2022 NX’s powertrain options yet, but we can make some educated guesses. Based on the trademarking of the names NX250, NX350, and NX350h, we expect the revised SUV to be offered with three different engines. The NX250 model will likely use a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, and the NX350, a 3.5-liter V-6. The NX350h will certainly be a hybrid and could borrow its running gear from the Toyota RAV4 Prime, which produces 302 horsepower and boasts an electric-only driving range of up to 42 miles.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
There’s no word yet from the EPA on the 2022 NX’s fuel-economy ratings. Nor have we had the chance to test the redesigned SUV on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test route. When the new NX shows up to our office for testing, we’ll update this story with results.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The current NX offers one of the more spacious cabins in the luxury-subcompact-crossover segment, and we expect that important trait to continue into this new generation. Expect interior upgrades in the form of a more expressive design, higher-end materials, and updated technology features. A three-row option isn’t expected to be introduced here; the NX will likely remain a two-row, five-seat model.
Infotainment and Connectivity
We haven’t yet seen spy photos of the 2022 NX’s interior, but we are hopeful that Lexus will introduce a modernized version of its infotainment system, complete with a touchscreen to replace the current model’s persnickety console-mounted touchpad controller. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability should both come standard, and we expect to see an on-board Wi-Fi hotspot and an optional Mark Levinson stereo system.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Lexus offers a host of standard driver-assistance features in the current NX, and those will undoubtedly carry over to the 2022 model. Shoppers can expect to find automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control on all models. For more information about the NX’s crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Standard adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Lexus offers one of the most comprehensive protection packages in the industry. But while the Volvo XC40 and the BMW X1 come with three years of complimentary scheduled maintenance, Lexus provides that benefit for only one.
- Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers six years or 70,000 miles
- Complimentary maintenance is covered for one year or 10,000 miles
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