FYI: The Lexus NX450h+ Plug-in Hybrid stands out with its unique blend of performance, luxury, and efficiency, but does it justify its hefty price tag?
As the dust settles on the initial hype surrounding the Lexus NX450h+ plug-in hybrid, it’s an opportune time to evaluate its true merit. Early adopters often rely on industry heavyweights to validate their purchases, but the majority of buyers prefer seeing real-world performance before making such a significant investment. This review aims to address whether the NX450h+ is genuinely impressive or if it merely caught our attention because of its novelty.
Initial Impressions of the Lexus NX450h+
After spending a week and covering about 700 miles with the Lexus NX450h+, it’s clear the vehicle has a lot to offer potential buyers looking for a luxury car that isn’t quite ready for a full electric transition. Yet, its strengths do come with a few weaknesses.
Key Specifications
Lexus NX450h+
- As-Tested Price: $64,880
- Battery: 18.1 kWh
- Engine: 2.5-liter four-cylinder
- Output: 304 hp
- 0-60 MPH: 6.0 seconds (manufacturer estimate)
- Transmission: eCVT
- EV Range: 37 miles
- Drive Type: AWD
- Charge Time: 2.5 hours (Level 2), 12 hours (Level 1)
- Efficiency: 2.5 mi/kWh, 36 MPG combined (observed)
Driving Experience: Performance and Handling
Toyota’s expertise in platform sharing is evident in the Lexus NX450h+. Sharing its TNGA-K platform with the Toyota RAV4, the NX450h+ benefits from proven engineering. Its 2.5-liter engine, paired with robust electric motors, delivers a combined output of 304 hp, significantly more than its non-plug-in sibling. This allows the NX450h+ to hit 60 MPH in approximately five and a half seconds, providing a quick and smooth drive. However, the power delivery may feel unconventional due to the hybrid system’s operational characteristics.
While the vehicle’s overall drive is competent, under hard acceleration, the engine can be louder and coarser than expected for a luxury car. The ride itself falls short of the cushy comfort one might anticipate from a Lexus, with a firm suspension that unexpectedly leans towards a sportier feel.
EV Mode and Efficiency
Despite these quirks, the NX450h+ excels in EV mode. It offers sufficient power for both city and highway driving and transitions seamlessly from electric to hybrid function. During testing, the vehicle exceeded its advertised 37-mile EV range, clocking in at 40 miles. Once the battery is depleted, the NX450h+ maintained a combined fuel economy of 36 MPG, consistent with Lexus’s claims.
Charging Convenience
Equipped with a standard 6.6kW onboard charger, the NX450h+ offers relatively quick charging times. Using a Level 2 charger, the battery can be fully charged in approximately 2.5 hours, while a Level 1 charger takes about 12 hours. Public charging was straightforward, demonstrating excellent compatibility with various charging infrastructures.
Interior: Comfort and Design
Inside, the NX450h+ truly shines. Lexus has moved away from its previous cluttered design, opting for a more intuitive layout featuring a 14-inch touch screen complemented by a reasonable number of physical buttons. This thoughtful design offers both modern tech and traditional controls, blending old charm with new convenience. The interior materials are top-notch, with high-quality Palomino leather and strategically placed soft-touch plastics creating a luxurious feel.
Passenger comfort is high, although the high driving position and lack of side bolstering might not please those seeking a more engaging drive.
Technology and Features
The technology suite of the NX450h+ includes essentials like Wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a head-up display (HUD). However, it might seem less tech-loaded compared to competitors, missing out on advanced semi-autonomous driving features. The infotainment system, dubbed “Lexus Interface,” is functional but not particularly user-friendly, with outdated graphics and basic aesthetics.
Safety Features
Safety is thoroughly covered with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring:
- Intelligent High Beams
- All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Road Sign Assist
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Proactive Driving Assist
While it has yet to be rated by the NHTSA, it has earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS.
Pricing and Trims
The Lexus NX450h+ is available in two trims: Luxury and F Sport Handling AWD, starting at $62,415 and $63,505 respectively. While both trims are well-equipped, the F Sport variant includes adaptive suspension and unique styling cues.
Conclusion
Toyota’s expertise in hybrid technologies is unmatched, and the NX450h+ is a testament to this. It offers a luxurious, comfortable, and efficient ride, proving to be a strong candidate for those hesitant to switch to a fully electric vehicle. However, its premium pricing might make potential buyers think twice, especially with competitive in-house options like the Lexus RZ electric crossover.
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William Kouch, Editor of EV News for Automotive.fyi
