Upon my first glimpse of the 2022 Lexus NX 350h, I initially thought it might be too compact for my long-term needs. However, after a week of driving it, I discovered that it offers more interior space than expected and performs exceptionally well in terms of power. It can be likened to having a RAV4 with all the luxurious amenities that Lexus is renowned for. Let’s delve deeper into this crossover SUV.
Exterior
The vehicle I tested came in the elegant Nori Green Pearl exterior color. Walking around, one of the most prominent features, common in the Lexus lineup, is the striking spindle grille, which has been refined for the 2022 model year. The 2022 NX 350h exhibits stylish aesthetics with bold new exterior enhancements, including redesigned Lexus rear badging and a full-width tail lamp. Lexus continues to set the trend for exterior design, showcasing a blend of style and luxury that competitors should take note of.
Interior
The interior boasts beautifully colored leather-trimmed seats, advanced features, and ample passenger and cargo space. With a driver-centric design, Lexus has not compromised on passenger comfort in the 2022 350h. Loaded with cutting-edge technology, this model offers a seamless integration of the Lexus App, enhanced cell phone connectivity, user profiles, and a range of customization options. One notable feature is the Thematic Ambient Illumination, an optional feature that offers 14 lighting and mood themes inside the NX, creating an impressive visual experience, particularly at night. The technology inside the NX includes a 7-inch Multi Instrument Display and an optional 10-inch Head-Up Display, providing essential vehicle information within the driver’s line of sight. The inclusion of a 9.8-inch touchscreen, intuitive in operation, further enhances the technological offerings of the NX.
Engine / Powertrain
The all-new NX 350h combines power and fuel efficiency through its hybrid system. Featuring a D4-S fuel injection 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder gasoline engine paired with two high-torque electric drive motor-generators, this model offers strong acceleration and overall performance. The AWD system incorporates an independent electric motor to power the rear wheels when additional traction is required. With a quicker 0-60 time of 7.2 seconds and a combined system horsepower of 239, the updated hybrid powertrain delivers an impressive EPA-estimated 39 MPG.
Safety
Equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, the 2022 NX 350h features advanced safety technologies such as Curve Speed Management and Intersection Support. Additional safety features include Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Left Turn Oncoming Vehicle Detection/Braking, Right/Left Turn Oncoming Pedestrian Detection/Braking, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management, Road Sign Assist, Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Intelligent High Beam, and Digital Latch and Safe Exit Assist. These safety features provide comprehensive protection for occupants from various angles and scenarios.
Conclusion
The 2022 Lexus NX 350h Luxury AWD is an excellent option for daily commuting or as a versatile compact SUV. With a spacious interior, advanced technology, and a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, this model offers great value for individuals seeking a premium crossover experience.
The starting MSRP for the NX 350h is $42,700, while the tested version’s MSRP is $50,150.
