Lexus’ 2022 NX compact SUV will add a plug-in hybrid model with a 36-mile battery range when it goes on sale later this year. The NX also will introduce a new infotainment control system that adds a Lexus-branded virtual assistant and dispenses with the cumbersome touch pad and joystick previous Lexus vehicles used to control systems including audio and navigation.
Based on the same architecture as Toyota’s RAV4 compact SUV, the 2022 NX also will offer a conventional hybrid and a pair of gasoline-only drivetrains. The new NX is longer, wider and taller than the outgoing model, with a longer wheelbase. It competes with luxury SUVs like the Acura RDX, Audi Q3, Cadillac XT4 and Lincoln Corsair.
Looking low and sleek, the NX’s nose features L-shaped running lights and a large, deep execution of Lexus’ signature spindle grille. A visible crease runs rearward from the doors to the narrow taillights. There are no appreciable fender flares, but a somewhat scooped-in waist low in the front doors. Wheel sizes up to 20 inches will be available, with 18-inch wheels standard.
The taillights lead into a narrow lightbar that runs the width of the tailgate and will be illuminated at all times during night driving. There’s very little exterior brightwork.
2022 Lexus NX model line
NX 250 with a 203-horsepower 2.5L normally aspirated engine and 8-speed automatic transmission. Available with front- or all-wheel drive.
NX 350 with AWD 275-hp 2.4L turbo, 8-speed automatic.
NX 350h hybrid with AWD, 2.5L gasoline engine, continuously variable transmission and electric rear axle generating. Total power: 239 hp.
NX 450h-plus plug-in hybrid with 2.5L engine, rear e-axle and CVT. Charging time is 2.5 to 3.3 hours at 240V with the standard or optional on-board charger, respectively.
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Cloud-based navigation and driver settings
In addition to a new virtual assistant to compete with Siri, Alexa and Hey Google, the new infotainment system will offer an optional 14-inch touch screen. A 9.8-inch screen is standard.
While Lexus says it studied complaints about the usability of its earlier systems, the new one does not appear to offer dials for radio tuning/track selection and HVAC fan speed, two frequent driver requests. The volume and temperature controls do get dials.
Features of the new system, which Toyota-brand models also will use, include:
- Cloud-based navigation
- Cloud storage of driver settings
- Pinch & swipe operation
- Google points of interest
- Natural speech recognition for internet searches
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Simultaneous Bluetooth connection for two phones
- Smartphone lock/unlock and start
F-Sport package
The front seat has two microphones and noise cancellation to improve the system’s recognition and allow either the driver of front passenger to use the virtual assistant. The system is the first time U.S. engineers led development of Toyota’s infotainment system.
The interior has standard heated front seats, optional ventilated front seats and ambient lighting with 14 themes and 64 colors.
The optional F-Sport package includes a unique grille and bumpers; gloss black aluminum wheels; aluminum pedals; adaptive suspension; black and red interior trim.
Lexus expects the two gasoline models to account for 40%-50% of NX sales, followed by the hybrid and PHEV, in that order.
Lexus projects 65,000 sales in the first full year. That’s up about 10,300 from 2020 and 6,300 from 2019, the last year sales weren’t affected by the pandemic.
Lexus will announce prices and full fuel economy estimates closer to when sales begin.
2022 Lexus NX safety and assistance features
Electric door latches that prevent opening the door into traffic
Automatic braking if the driver turns left into oncoming traffic
Pedestrian and cyclist detection and automatic braking
Automatic braking for frontal collisions and oncoming vehicles
Adaptive cruise control that automatically slows on curves
Road sign recognition and display in instrument panel0
Blind spot alert
Lane keeping assist