Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | NX |
| Generation | NX II (AZ20) |
| Type (Engine) | 450h+ (309 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid e-Four e-CVT |
| Start of production | September, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 0.9-1.1 l/100 km (261.3 – 213.8 US mpg, 313.9 – 256.8 UK mpg, 111.1 – 90.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 20-26 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp, 155.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.8 kg/Nm, 114.1 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 18.1 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 355 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 74-96 km (45.98 – 59.65 mi) |
| Max speed (electric) | 135 km/h (83.89 mph) |
| Electric motor power (1) | 182 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (1) | 270 Nm (199.14 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location (1) | Integrated into the transmission |
| Electric motor type (1) | Synchronous |
| Electric motor power (2) | 54 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (2) | 121 Nm (89.25 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location (2) | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type (2) | Synchronous |
| System power | 309 Hp |
| Power | 185 Hp @ 6000 rpm (74.4 Hp/l) |
| Torque | 227 Nm @ 3200-3700 rpm (167.43 lb.-ft. @ 3200-3700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A25A-FXS |
| Engine displacement | 2487 cm3 (151.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 103.4 mm (4.07 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 14:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1990-2050 kg (4387.2 – 4519.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2540 kg (5599.74 lbs.) |
| Max load | 490-550 kg (1080.27 – 1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 545 l (19.25 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1436 l (50.71 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Length | 4660 mm (183.46 in.) |
| Width | 1865 mm (73.43 in.) |
| Height | 1660-1670 mm (65.35 – 65.75 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm (105.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1625 mm (63.98 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1007 mm (39.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 963 mm (37.91 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 185-195 mm (7.28 – 7.68 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34-0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 16° |
| Departure angle | 25° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | An Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels, one electric motor drives the front wheels, one electric motor drives the rear wheels. There is an ability for running in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission e-CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 340×38 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 317×18 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/60 R18; 235/50 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 7.5J x 20 |
The Lexus NX 450h+, designated model code AZ20, represents Lexus’s entry into the growing plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) segment. Introduced in September 2021 as part of the second-generation NX (NX II) series, the 450h+ combines a 2.5-liter inline-four gasoline engine with an electric motor system, offering both all-electric driving capability and the extended range of a hybrid powertrain. Positioned as a premium offering within the NX lineup, it caters to buyers seeking a balance of efficiency, performance, and luxury. The NX II platform, also underpinning the Toyota RAV4 Prime, aims to deliver a more refined and technologically advanced experience compared to its predecessor.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The NX 450h+ utilizes a sophisticated powertrain centered around the Toyota/Lexus A25A-FXS 2.5-liter inline-four engine. This engine, part of the Dynamic Force Engine family, features direct injection and multi-port fuel injection, optimizing combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. It produces 185 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 227 Nm (167.43 lb-ft) of torque between 3200-3700 rpm. The engine is paired with a primary electric motor integrated into the electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT). A second, smaller electric motor powers the rear axle, providing on-demand all-wheel drive (e-Four) capability. The 18.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, located under the floor, allows for an all-electric range of 74-96 km (45.98 – 59.65 miles) depending on driving conditions. The e-CVT intelligently manages power flow between the engine and electric motors, prioritizing electric drive when possible and seamlessly transitioning to hybrid mode for optimal efficiency and performance.
Driving Characteristics
The NX 450h+ delivers a refined and responsive driving experience. In all-electric mode, acceleration is brisk and quiet, making it ideal for urban commuting. The combined output of 309 horsepower provides strong acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 6 seconds. The e-CVT, while lacking the traditional gear changes of a conventional automatic, offers smooth and linear power delivery. Compared to the standard NX 350, the 450h+ offers significantly improved fuel economy and the ability to operate in zero-emission mode. While the added weight of the battery pack slightly impacts handling compared to non-hybrid models, the e-Four system provides enhanced traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather. The rear electric motor contributes to a more balanced feel during cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The NX 450h+ typically comes well-equipped with standard features including Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (pre-collision system, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control), a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, heated and ventilated front seats, and a premium sound system. Interior upholstery is typically NuLuxe (synthetic leather), with options for genuine leather upgrades. Available options include a panoramic sunroof, Mark Levinson premium audio, triple-beam LED headlights, and advanced parking assist features. Trim levels generally offer increasing levels of luxury and technology, with higher trims adding features like a head-up display and more sophisticated interior finishes.
Chassis & Braking
The NX 450h+ utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension, tuned to provide a comfortable ride and responsive handling. Ventilated disc brakes are used on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The added weight of the battery pack necessitates a slightly stiffer suspension setup compared to the standard NX, but Lexus engineers have worked to maintain a balance between ride comfort and handling precision. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lexus NX 450h+ has been generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its fuel efficiency, refined driving experience, and luxurious interior. Compared to other plug-in hybrid SUVs in its class, such as the Volvo XC60 Recharge and the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, the NX 450h+ offers a competitive all-electric range and a reputation for Lexus reliability. Some reviewers have noted that the infotainment system can take some getting used to, and the cargo space is slightly reduced due to the battery pack. However, the overall consensus is that the NX 450h+ is a compelling option for buyers seeking a premium plug-in hybrid SUV.
Legacy
The Lexus NX 450h+ represents a significant step forward in Lexus’s electrification strategy. The powertrain, leveraging Toyota’s extensive hybrid technology expertise, is expected to be reliable and durable. Early reports suggest good long-term battery health. As a relatively new model, the long-term reliability of the 450h+ is still being assessed, but Lexus’s strong reputation for quality and dependability suggests it will hold its value well in the used car market. The integration of a plug-in hybrid system into the popular NX platform broadens its appeal to a wider range of buyers and positions Lexus as a leader in the luxury PHEV segment.
