By: Conan Zhang, Armon Hayes × Vaughn Lowery
Overview
Lexus NX is one of the most popular luxury compact SUVs in the United States.
The 2022 Lexus NX model has brought us two unprecedented features: 1) the all-new Plug-In Hybrid Electric (450h+) and 2) the all-new Lexus multimedia interface.
As of late, 360 MAGAZINE was invited to Phoenix to attend the release of the all-new Lexus NX. Its appeal will foster youth, technology, and multiculturalism.
Upon arrival, the team checked into the Arizona Biltmore, a Waldorf Astoria Resort (also part of Hilton). The grounds boast lush scenery and majestic mountains as a backdrop. For nearly a century, the lodge has played a prominent role in its habitat. Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural style offers a generous splash of Hollywood glamor.
With history worth of noting, the Biltmore was opened by brothers Warren McArthur, Jr. and Charles McArthur with John McEntee Bowman on February 23, 1929. The land spans across thirty-nine acres with 700 guest rooms. Amenities include eight outdoor pools, a 92-foot slide with a swim up bar, seven tennis courts, two golf courses and seven restaurants. There is also a fitness center, a children’s camp, a play area, as well as a full-service spa (fee not included).
Services at Tierra Luna Spa were remarkable, creating a place of sensory adventure. Within its walls, arid curative properties have been exploited in a variety of memorable experiences. Spa treatments focused on desert plants, cosmic connectivity, and dynamic recovery.
Performance
When stepping foot into the driver’s seat of the newly designed vehicle, enthusiasts can instantly notice a lower sense of gravity, thus enhancing overall handling and making it appear more aggressive. Moreover, the 2022 NX 350 model has been upgraded to a 2.4L turbo. Thanks to the integrated 8-speed transmission, the car was able to enjoy a smoother riding experience.
This trim level has an input of 275 hp with 317 pound-feet of torque, pushing 0-60mph in a time of 6.6 seconds. It’s over a half-second faster than the last model. These are impressive performances for a compact SUV in its market segment. Not to mention, it gets a combined estimate of 25 mpg.
In addition, the first-ever NX 250 features a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine with start/stop function and an eight-speed transmission. The NX 250 model includes FWD and AWD options and a combined MPG estimated by the EPA of 28. The SUV is also capable of producing 203 horsepower and 184lb-ft of torque. Since it is a lower-level version than NX 350, the 0-60 mph comes to 8.2 seconds for the FWD version and 8.6 seconds for AWD.
Design
The most noticeable difference of its makeover is the signature spindle grille. While maintaining the overall skeleton of the incumbent, the mouth has become pouty and polished. Furthermore, the newly introduced L-E-X-U-S rear badging rests under the continuous tail-lamp. Say goodbye to the Toyota-like emblem on its boot. The lateral profile, at first glance, closely resembles the current model, but this is not the case. The length, width and height of the body are respectively 4660/1865/1640mm and the wheelbase is 2690 mm. In comparison with the current model, the length and width have increased by 20mm, and the wheelbase has increased by 30mm.
Taking a peek inside, the redesign of the cabin will completely hypnotize you. The new NX uses the Tazuna cockpit concept to communicate more directly and efficiently between the driver and the vehicle. The standard 9.8-inch touch panel can be upgraded to 14 inches. The infotainment unit is considerably taller than the center console, and the edges and corners have an elegant diamond shape. What makes this vehicle more intuitive than its predecessors are the steering commands that are imitated on the head-up display of the windshield. Overall, this vehicle screams ergonomically for drivers and larger passengers with enough space for four to sit comfortably. In addition, Lexus offers a panoramic moonroof that allows extra light to spread through its corridors, making stargazing more accessible than ever. At night, up to 64 selected colors of ambient light can be seen in footwells, center console and door panels.
Technology
The revamped NX marks the introduction of a brand-new Lexus multimedia platform that outperforms its current system, meeting customers’ priority for fast, intuitive on-board connectivity. Operation is as simple as using a tablet, allowing drivers to stay connected to the Lexus interface on an ongoing basis. There is wireless integration of Apple Car Play and Android Auto, Voice Assistant, cloud-enabled navigation with Google Points of Interest (POI), on aerial updates and Digital Key available. Additionally, the vehicle provides integrated streaming from Apple Music and Amazon Music. And their premium audio package features a 17-speaker system equipped by Mark Levinson. This 1800-watt high-fidelity pack effortlessly improves compressed audio, spelling out all your favorite lyrics and instruments.
Highlight: First Lexus Plug-In NX 450h+
Historically, Lexus hybrid models have captured more than 23% of their sales. The bold design and signature make the Lexus NX one of the most popular models among Gen Z and Gen Y affluent drivers. According to Koji Sato, Lexus International President and former chief engineer, electrification is already one of the most important goals for Lexus to conquer. With that, the first plug-in Lexus NX 450h+ has now been released.
The NX 450h+ has an EPA estimated range of 36 miles on electricity alone; the lithium-ion battery made this possible. This electrical system equates to a 2.0-liter motor. When combined with the newly developed hybrid, a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine offers an estimated duration of 6.0 seconds from 0 to 60.
Safety
Safety comes first every time, and Lexus knows it. The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 makes driving an easy task. Other new features like Curve Speed Management and Intersection Support provide a multi-level protection base. Optional Digital Key and Advanced Park on NX 350h and NX 450h+ models make vehicle access and parking a breeze. After all, a digital key is convenient for customers who use their vehicles in car sharing apps such as Turo.
Price
The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for each all-new NX are:
– $37,950 for NX 250 FWD
– $39,550 for NX 250 AWD
– $41,550 for NX 350
– $41,050 for NX 350h
– $55,560 for NX 450h+
– All prices listed are exclusive of $1,075 delivery, processing, and handling fee.
Conclusion
The 2022 Lexus NX is a compact luxury SUV that offers an abundance of powertrains, a competitive edge against rivals like the Acura RDX and BMW X3
With the ability to tow kayaks and jet skis, this all-rounder would be great for a summer getaway to the lake. Additionally, mainly due to its petite chassis, it’s a shoo-in for parking in overcrowded urban areas and city centers.
In short, driving comfort and quiet cabins have always been an attribute of the NX; however, now with its sensual silhouette, and gorgeous lines, it’s best described as a dime piece.
Honorable Mention
The Baby Beast: Lexus IS 500 F Sport
Finally, Lexus introduced the IS 500 F Sport model to consumers in the American marketplace. Although the IS is not a brand-new product, it has been readjusted by engineers with a large facelift and power plant. The new IS model is always perfectly balanced, and the Lexus IS 500 is by far the best Lexus IS model proposed to date.
Lexus engineers have always focused on creating high-performing products for the North American market. As a result, this Lexus IS 500 F Sport is the first in its history. It’s in position to rival the AMG C43, Audi S4 and BMW 340i models.
F Sport IS 500 is the highest level of the IS series and comes well-equipped with a throaty quad exhaust, stiffer steering/suspension as well as 472 hp with 395 lb-ft of torque. The 5.0L engine delivers 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.
Plus, the all-new Lexus IS 500 F Sport has 19-inch wheels and scuff plates.
