2022 Lexus NX: What We Love and Hate About This Luxury SUV
Did Lexus fix some of the glaring flaws with the NX luxury SUV or do we still have some issues with the 2022 model? The previous version of this compact crossover gave us a touchpad controller for the infotainment system and didn’t offer the powertrain options we wanted in our luxury vehicles. It’s easy to admire the size and driving capabilities of the Lexus NX, but is it the luxury SUV you want to drive?
What’s new in the 2022 Lexus NX?
The list of issues for the previous model isn’t a long one, but that didn’t stop Lexus from upgrading this SUV to give us more for our driving pleasure. According to Kelley Blue Book, the 2022 version now offers:
- Redesigned body and build
- Touchscreen infotainment system
- Additional safety features
- Plug-in hybrid powertrain
- Full-width rear taillights
- “Hey, Lexus” voice-command system
Is the NX luxury SUV affordable?
We expect higher prices for the name we know and admire in the luxury world. The Lexus NX starts at $39,025 for the FWD NX 250. The AWD version of the base model requires you to spend $40,625, whereas stepping up to the NX 350 gives you a price of $42,625. Move to the NX 350h hybrid model, and you will pay $42,125, while the NX 450h+, which is the new plug-in hybrid model, costs $56,725. Add the F Sport qualities to the mix, and reach much closer to $58,000.
The Lexus NX is in line with other luxury SUV models at the lower trims, including the Acura RDX and Volvo XC60. You’ll spend less for the NX than the BMW X3 or Mercedes-Benz GLC.
What do we hate about this Lexus compact SUV?
Pricey PHEV model
Some of the items we don’t admire about this luxury crossover are easy to see already. Looking at the pricing, you can see the plug-in hybrid requires a lot more money to enjoy the benefits of some electric-only driving.
Slow acceleration from the turbocharged engine
Cars.com brings us a few items about the Lexus NX we want improved. The turbocharged engine for the NX 350 is hesitant when you step on the gas. This is common among turbocharged engines, which this model uses, but not something you want in your luxury vehicle.
Voice Assistant slow to respond
The Voice Assistant feature should make it easy for you to keep your eyes on the road, but you’ll have to be patient with it before the system responds to you. If you’re patient, this system works great, but you might get frustrated when you need information in a hurry.
Not many of the PHEV models are available
It’s not the fault of Lexus that the 450h PHEV model isn’t as available as other NX models, but that’s the reality of the situation. The lack of microchips causes this version to be in short supply. You might have to order this model and wait for it to arrive.
What do we love about the 2022 Lexus NX?
A much better infotainment system
Touchpads shouldn’t be part of the 2022 model year, and Lexus fixed this issue for owners. The new touchscreen controls are easy to use and give you the connectivity of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto you desire. Lower trim levels come with a 9.8-inch screen, while higher trims show you 14 inches of screen to enjoy.
The ride and handling is better
This new platform for the Lexus NX increases the wheelbase by 1.2-inches and also has a wider track. These changes give you more room and a smoother, more confident ride on the roads. The suspension is softer, which makes for a more comfortable ride, but it doesn’t take away from the fun factor of tearing up some of the corners.
More powertrain options for you
Adding the 450h models to the NX luxury SUV lineup gives you more powertrain options than before. This means you have four different ways to power this SUV. You’ll have an NX that fits how you want to drive.
An improved regular hybrid powertrain
Select the NX 350h and you’ve got an SUV that gives you more than it should. This model is less than the conventional NX 350, and it delivers more power and better fuel mileage than the 300h it replaced. You’ll have 203 horsepower and AWD when you drive the Lexus NX 350h, which means you have a luxury SUV made for some fun away from the paved roads.
The Digital Key is pretty cool
The new Digital Key feature turns your smartphone into your key, allowing you to lock, unlock, and drive the Lexus NX. This feature makes this SUV sharable among seven friends using the Lexus Remote Connect services. If you have one of the hybrid models, you can use the Advanced Park feature to park the vehicle while you stand outside. That’s pretty cool.
