Lexus unveiled the second generation of the NX in June 2021, and despite its look very similar to its predecessor, it was a completely new vehicle from tip to toe.
The NX was the premium sibling of the Toyota Rav4, and they both shared the same TNGA-K platform with the Avalon or the Highlander models built by the same Japanese carmaker. That allowed front or all-wheel-drive systems, gasoline or hybrid power engines, and starting with the 2022 NX, a plug-in hybrid.

The 2022 NX featured a new front fascia with a more expansive “spindle-grille” design. It wasn’t everybody’s cup of tea, but it worked well for other vehicles within the Lexus range. It also sported new LED headlights and L-shaped daytime running lights. The door panels and fenders were a mix of curved angular lines and curved areas. At the back, the taillights featured a connecting light strip that ran across the tailgate. Its raked-forward windscreen and C-pillars enhanced the vehicle’s dynamic look, while the roof spoiler created an even sportier image.

Inside, Lexus installed a 7” instrument panel named Multi Instrument Display (MID) complemented by a 10” Head Up Display (HUD) available as an option. The carmaker placed a standard 9.8” touchscreen above the center stack for the infotainment unit, with an option for a 14” display. It featured wireless connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enhancing the driver’s experience. Lexus kept the physical turn-dials for the volume and climate control unit. The NX provided seating for four with high-bolstered front bucket seats and a bench for two in the back.

Under the hood, the compact SUV featured a range of four engines, starting with a 2.5-liter inline-four that replaced the older 2.0-liter unit and went up to a turbocharged and electrified 2.4-liter, 275 hp four-banger.

In its quest to offer more hybrid vehicles on the market, Toyota launched the NX compact SUV in 2014 at the New York Auto Show.
Three years later, it came with a restyling that made the car more appealing.

Toyota had committed itself to not offer diesel engines anymore for street vehicles or light SUVs. It retained them only for the HiLux pickup-truck and for some versions of the Land Cruiser. For Lexus, it deleted that option, and for the NX installed a hybrid system.

There were not so many exterior changes to the NX. It gave the car a stronger visual impact with a number of detailed changes including a new-look spindle grille, reshaped front bumper and LED headlamp units with sequential LED turn indicators. At the rear, there were adjustments to the form and finish of the lower rear bumper and new lamp clusters. New alloy wheel designs have also been produced.

Inside, there were new color options for the NX, with the addition of Rich Cream and Ochre upholstery and trim. The tailgate received a hands-free operating system. With the key in the pocket, a foot swipe under the rear bumper would open the trunk. A similar movement would close it. A new, 10.3” Lexus infotainment system was installed, with the mouse-like control on the center console. In the instrument cluster, a 4.2 TFT LCD was installed to offer more information to the driver.

Under the hood, there was the same 2.5-liter Atkinson engine, a generator, and an electric motor. Both front and all-wheel-drive systems were available.

The Lexus NX comes to market as the automaker’s first entry into the luxury compact crossover segment along with being the first turbocharged car in its lineup.
The NX was designed to have more agility than an SUV along with an eye-catching bold exterior enhanced by a low-profile roofline, big spindle grille up front, innovative LED headlamps and L-shaped daytime running lights, 17-inch rims and muscular shaped wheel arches. The rear is punctuated by Lexus’ signature ‘L’ shape combination lamps, each with seamless LED lighting, while the bodywork echoes the spindle grille design. The Lexus NX’s cabin combines the structural beauty of a high-performance machine with luxury materials that maximizes functionality. The combination of hard metallic surfaces and contrasting soft materials help create a unique interior. A strong, center silver frame surrounds and defines the center instrument panel. Knee pads located at the base of the center stack help support the driver and passenger. The Human Machine Interface (HMI) technology continues the impression of an advanced vehicle and is also located at the bottom of the center stack.