New Lexus NX Debuts With 100 km+ PHEV Range
Lexus officially unveiled the updated Lexus NX crossover on September 1, 2026, introducing major changes to its design, chassis, powertrains, and cabin technology. The mid-cycle update goes beyond styling, with revisions to the hybrid systems, body structure, suspension, steering, and multimedia technology. Lexus says the changes are designed to strengthen the NX’s position in Europe’s competitive premium SUV segment.
Vital x Tech Design Evolution and Multi-Sensory Cabin
Exterior changes focus on a sportier look, anchored by a redesigned frameless spindle grille that blends seamlessly into the bodywork. New all-weather lighting units combine adaptive high beams, cornering lights, and integrated upper daytime running light bars.
Bright chrome detailing has been replaced with predominantly darker finishes, giving the NX a more cohesive, sportier appearance. Inside, the horizontal dashboard takes inspiration from the latest ES and TZ, with the main displays aligned to reduce unnecessary eye and head movement.
The LexusConnect multimedia system uses a 14” touchscreen and delivers 4x faster processing, alongside hidden responsive switches. High-spec models feature a new Sensory Concierge system coordinating ambient lighting, climate controls, and bespoke fragrances.
6th-Gen Hybrid Powertrains and Fast-Charging Capability
Both powertrains adopt 6th-gen Lexus hybrid technology, although the main range and power gains apply to the NX 450h+. The Lexus NX 450h+ uses a larger 23 kWh lithium-ion battery and is expected to exceed 100 km of electric range on the provisional WLTP combined cycle.
DC fast charging is standard on the European NX 450h+, with Lexus quoting a 10–80% charging time of 30 minutes. The combined power control unit and transaxle assembly is 10 kg lighter and 10 cm lower, helping lower the vehicle’s center of gravity.
The NX 350h receives a revised lithium-ion battery that weighs 23.5 kg, down 9.2 kg from 32.7 kg, while maintaining a maximum system output of 199 hp. Lexus says both powertrains meet the forthcoming Euro 7 standard and expects them to deliver best-in-class CO2-emissions performance.
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Spec |
Lexus NX 450h+ AWD | Lexus NX 350h AWD | Lexus NX 350h FWD |
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Length (mm) |
4,690 (+30) | ||
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Width (mm) |
1,865 |
||
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Height (mm) |
1,660 |
||
| Wheelbase (mm) |
2,690 |
||
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Kerb Weight (kg) |
2,050–2,130 | 1,790–1,870 | 1,730–1,810 |
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Engine Type |
2.5L In-Line 4-Cylinder |
||
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Transaxle |
e-CVT |
||
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Engine Output |
136–184 hp |
||
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Combined Output |
307 hp |
199 hp |
|
|
0–100 km/h |
6.1 seconds |
7.3 seconds |
7.7 seconds |
| EV Driving Range | >100 km, provisional WLTP | N/A |
N/A |
Specifications may vary by region and equipment. Power and acceleration figures are provisional and under development. EV range is a provisional WLTP figure pending homologation
Nürburgring-Tuned Dynamics and Body Rigidity
Floor rigidity increases by around 25%, while rigidity around the front suspension towers rises by around 30%. Lexus moved the auxiliary battery closer to the vehicle’s center of gravity, improving overall balance.
Lexus refined the NX’s chassis, suspension and steering settings at the Nürburgring for European roads and driving conditions. Aerodynamic management details include an air-curtain effect around the front wheels, aero fins in the rear wheelhouses and rear aero corners on F SPORT models.
New ultra-low-velocity shock absorber valves provide strong damping force to absorb small road inputs. The retuned EPS provides light, linear feedback, while the new variable-ratio steering gear improves maneuverability.
Digital Cockpit, LSS+ Safety, and European Timeline
The latest LexusConnect system offers 4x faster processing, along with updated cloud navigation and Smart Digital Key+ connectivity. Lexus says an upgraded sensor increases the horizontal viewing angle by 115% and detection distance by 170%.
The Driving Assist Display can show up to 6 nearby vehicles at once. The updated Lexus NX will be introduced in Europe from early spring 2027, with pre-sales beginning in autumn 2026. Towing capacity increases to 1,500 kg across all powertrain variants.
Connect & Secure includes Car Theft Assistant, while Remote Immobilizer is due later; availability varies by grade and market.
Conclusion
The update combines chassis and powertrain revisions with a redesigned cabin and newer multimedia technology. For the NX 450h+, the longer electric range and addition of DC fast charging address two areas Lexus specifically targeted with the update.
For European buyers, the update brings more electric range, quicker PHEV charging and substantial cabin and chassis revisions. Will the extended 100 km electric range give the updated Lexus NX the advantage it needs against European rivals?
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