When the Lexus NX first leaped onto the scene, it offered aggressive styling, an upscale cabin and plenty of desirable tech and driving features. In 2022, the second NX generation was introduced, with lots of changes to go around. Most notably was the filled-out line-up. With an entry-level NX 250, more powerful NX 350, and two hybrids! One conventional and one plug-in. At the top of the heap, is the unparalleled plug-in NX 450h+.
With such a big redesign just a year out, the 2023 NX 450h+ carries over practically unchanged. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as it’s already very good. With the F Sport package dialing up the attitude and aggression even more. Starting with the obvious, and what really makes the 450h+ the NX to keep your eye on, is an impressive all-electric driving range. Around 35-40 miles to be exact, which will help you really save on gas. If your day becomes more errand-packed than usual, and the electrical juice is all gone, a combined 36 mpg on gas is still pretty good.
The cabin stands ready to greet you with all of its dark, F Sport charm. Roomy and attractive in its color palate and lay-out. With a stylish F Sport steering wheel, paddle shifters, bolstered and embossed F Sport seats and aluminum trim at the doors, scuff plates and pedals. On the outside, an F Sport grille and custom bumpers add an extra sinister layer to an already ferocious design. You’ll also get dark roof rails, window trim, and 20” F Sport wheels. Also in a dark finish. All of the black accents and aluminum trimmings look incredible against the Ultrasonic Blue Mica paint. Making for one visually impactful Lexus.
Luckily, the F Sport treatment extends beyond a purely visual package. Adding adaptive variable suspension with front and rear performance dampers. Dull handling has been a common criticism with the Lexus NX, and these improvements make a big difference in helping the 450h+ feel more dynamic and tidy through the tight twists and turns.
For anyone still apprehensive about going full EV, and their are still plenty of reasons to be; the plug-in hybrid represents a very safe middle ground. It’s for this reason that the plug-in hybrid SUV is a field that’s fast growing. Full of attractive options from the likes of Audi, Volvo, Mercedes-Benz and many more. The Lexus NX 450h+ comfortably competes with the best of them. With 35-40 miles of pure electric range, you could feasibly go for very long stretches without stopping for a fill-up. Its attractive good looks, polished interior and enormous list of standard tech, driving and safety features make it an alluring option for anyone not ready to fully commit to life without petrol. But find themselves flirting with the idea of it more and more.
Price as tested: $62,985.00
