2022 Lexus NX 350h review: Hybrid’s difficult second album hits all the right notes

For any car manufacturer, replacing and updating what is your best-selling model — both in the UK and across Europe — is a significant challenge. Get it wrong, and well …. ?

That’s the challenge Lexus faces with the introduction of its 2022 NX 350h, the second generation of the Japanese premium company’s mid-sized SUV which has already sold more than one million units globally. The question is: has it got the package right?

Design

Certainly from the outside, there’s no getting away from the fact the NX looks mightily impressive. This new model is actually larger than the 2014 first-generation, and sits on the same TNGA-K model platform as the current Toyota RAV4 and Highlander, resulting in the NX growing an inch or so.

But what’s more important is the newcomer has a lower centre of gravity, thanks to its wider axle tracks, and a more rigid chassis. All of this combines to ensure the new NX feels more planted in corners. Oh, and there’s also a completely new interior, with the star of the show being its 14-inch infotainment screen. More on which later.

Engine and performance

The more powerful NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid, with its 40-mile range of all-electric driving, was launched last year. What he have here is Lexus’ “self-charging” petrol-electric hybrid. It’s a clever piece of tech, and further strengthens the Toyota/Lexus reputation for mastering the petrol-electric technology. Worth remembering that Lexus remains a hybrid stalwart. Every model in the range comes exclusively with electrified powertrains, apart from the V8-engined RC and LC sports cars.

The new 2.5-litre hybrid system is 25% more powerful than in the Mk1 NX — that means 241bhp total output that, with two electric motors working alongside, powers all four wheels via a CVT automatic gearbox — resulting in a 0-62mph time of 7.7 seconds, a top speed of 124mph and official economy of 44.1mpg.